Introduction
Old-fashioned chicken and dumplings is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, rich and flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory goodness. Often associated with home-cooked meals and cozy evenings, this dish has been cherished for generations as the ultimate comfort food.
Origin
Chicken and dumplings trace their roots to rural Southern kitchens in the United States, though similar dishes exist in various cultures worldwide. Early American settlers adapted European boiled dumpling recipes to make a filling, inexpensive meal from simple farm ingredients.
Cultural Significance
In many families, chicken and dumplings symbolize warmth, care, and togetherness. Often served at Sunday dinners or during cold weather, it represents resourcefulness — stretching simple ingredients into a satisfying feast — and the tradition of passing recipes down through generations.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6)
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup milk or buttermilk
Optional Additions
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Garlic cloves for added depth
- A splash of heavy cream for richer broth
- Peas for extra sweetness and color
Tips for Success
- Simmer chicken gently to keep it tender.
- Use cold butter in the dumpling dough for light, fluffy results.
- Don’t overmix dumpling batter — a light hand keeps them soft.
- Drop dumplings into simmering, not boiling, broth to avoid breaking.
Instructions
- Place chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until chicken is tender, about 45 minutes.
- Remove chicken from broth. Discard skin and bones; shred meat and return to pot.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until just combined.
- Bring broth to a gentle simmer. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the surface, spacing slightly apart.
- Cover pot and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to allow dumplings to steam and cook through.
- Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with parsley if desired.
Description
Old-fashioned chicken and dumplings is a rustic, stick-to-your-ribs dish with tender chicken, vegetables infused with savory broth, and dumplings that are soft yet slightly doughy, perfect for soaking up rich flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
This timeless dish is ideal for cold evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you need a dose of culinary nostalgia. Its balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and hearty dumplings makes it a complete, satisfying meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten the recipe, use skinless chicken breasts, low-sodium broth, and whole-wheat flour for the dumplings. Pair with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded dinner that still delivers all the comfort of the original.