Nothing brings back the comforting taste of home quite like old fashioned chicken and dumplings. And it’s a simple, heartwarming staple of Southern kitchens going back generations. A skillfully blended flavorful broth to tender pieces of chicken, plus fluffy homemade dumplings. Looking for comfort food that will warm you from the inside out, this is the recipe for you.
We’ll walk you through making old fashioned chicken and dumplings from scratch in this guide. These chicken and dumplings are the answer whether you’re making them on a cold day or want to bring back a little piece of cozy.
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Why Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?
Old fashioned chicken and dumplings bring nostalgia to the table. I really liked this dish, which was savory, smooth bodied with tender chicken and soft dumplings. Sure it takes some time to make chicken and dumplings from scratch, but it’s worth it.
Plus, there are simple ingredients necessary, most of which you probably have on hand in your pantry. If you have a basic taste for that hearty dish, filled with traditional flavor, well then read on to find the perfect chicken and dumplings recipe!
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
First, for this recipe we are using simple, accessible ingredients. But each has a crucial role in getting that classic taste and texture all old fashioned chicken and dumplings have.
For the Chicken Broth
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds) – Gives the broth a rich flavor.
- 8 cups chicken broth – Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 large onion, quartered – Adds depth to the broth.
- 3 large carrots, cut into chunks – Adds sweetness and color.
- 3 celery stalks, cut into large pieces – Adds earthy flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic – Enhances the flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional) – Enhances the overall flavor.
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base for the dumplings.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the dumplings to puff up.
- ¾ teaspoon salt – Adds a touch of seasoning.
- ¼ cup cold butter, cubed – Keeps the dumplings tender.
- 1 cup whole milk – Combines with the flour to form a soft dough.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
This recipe involves two main steps: getting the chicken broth ready, and forming the dumplings. But they each are pretty straightforward, and add adequate time for the flavors to develop.
1. Cook the Chicken and Make the Broth
- Add Ingredients: Put the entire chicken, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf and poultry seasoning in a large pot.
- Season and Simmer: Add salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 min, then bring the pot to a boil and reduce heat. Give the chicken and cover then cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through — about 1 hour.
- Remove the Chicken: When cooked, withdraw the chicken out of the pot and set aside to cool. If desired a smooth broth, strain out the vegetables.
- Shred the Chicken: When the chicken has cooled, shred it into small bite sized pieces. Return shredded meat to the pot, discarding skin and bones.
2. Make the Dumplings
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Milk: Gradually add the milk, stirring until the dough forms. Be careful not to overwork it, as this can make the dumplings tough.
- Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour your countertop, place the dough on it, and roll it out to about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut the Dumplings: Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into small squares, about 1 inch each.
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Combine Everything for Chicken and Dumplings
- Add Dumplings to Broth: Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Carefully add the dumplings one at a time, stirring occasionally to keep them from sticking together.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes. The broth will start to thicken slightly, and the dumplings should float when they’re done.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Add more salt and pepper to taste if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter in the dumplings gives them a tender texture. If the butter gets too soft, the dumplings may turn out dense.
- Avoid Overcooking the Dumplings: Cooking too long can make dumplings mushy. 15-20 minutes should be just right.
- Customize the Broth: For added richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the broth in the final minutes of cooking. This gives it a creamy texture that’s especially comforting.
Variations on Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
This dish is very versatile. Here are a few variations to try if you want to mix things up.
Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
For a creamier version, add ½ cup of heavy cream to the broth just before serving. This creates a velvety, rich broth that’s extra indulgent.
Herbed Dumplings
Add fresh herbs to the dumpling dough, such as parsley, thyme, or chives. This gives each bite a burst of flavor.
Spicy Chicken and Dumplings
For a kick of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the broth. This spicy twist is especially warming on chilly days.
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Tips for Making Dumplings Light and Fluffy
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the dough until just combined. Overmixing can make dumplings tough.
- Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter gives the dumplings a fluffy texture. If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough briefly before cutting it.
- Avoid Peeking: Resist lifting the lid while the dumplings cook, as the steam is essential for them to cook through.
Serving Suggestions for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings are satisfying on their own, but here are a few serving ideas:
- Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Buttery Biscuits: If you love bread with your soup, serve with flaky biscuits for extra comfort.
- Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate cozy meal, serve chicken and dumplings with a side of mashed potatoes.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a pot over low heat, stirring gently. You may need to add a bit of broth to bring it back to the right consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of a Whole Chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may not give the same rich flavor as a whole chicken. If you prefer a shortcut, try using a rotisserie chicken and store-bought broth.
2. Can I Add Vegetables to Chicken and Dumplings?
While classic chicken and dumplings usually don’t include extra vegetables, feel free to add peas, green beans, or even corn for added nutrition.
3. Can I Make Chicken and Dumplings in Advance?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the dumplings may soak up more broth as it sits.
4. Can I Freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
Freezing is possible, but the dumplings can become mushy after thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider freezing just the broth and chicken, and make fresh dumplings when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts on Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a dish that embodies comfort, warmth, and the flavor of home. With its tender chicken, pillowy dumplings, and savory broth, it’s a meal that brings everyone together. If you’re new to making chicken and dumplings or a seasoned cook revisiting a classic, this recipe delivers all the flavor and nostalgia you could ask for.
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Whether it’s a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a cozy weekend meal, old fashioned chicken and dumplings will become a favorite in no time. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting classic!