Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings – The Cozy Classic Everyone Craves

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Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings – The Cozy Classic Everyone Craves

If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, old-fashioned chicken and dumplings is the answer. This Southern-inspired classic has been gracing family tables for generations. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food recipe for any season. Whether you’re recreating Grandma’s Sunday dinner or making it for the first time, this hearty, soul-satisfying meal will win over everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Pure comfort – Creamy, savory, and satisfying.
  • Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.
  • Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables or spices.
  • Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.

A Brief History of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings have roots in both Southern American and European cuisines. Early settlers made the dish with whatever was available—typically chicken stewed in a broth and topped with simple flour-based dumplings. Over time, this hearty stew became a staple in Southern kitchens, often served during Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or cold winter nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for the best homemade chicken and dumplings:

  • For the chicken stew:
    • 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs) or 4-6 bone-in chicken breasts/thighs
    • 8 cups chicken broth
    • 2 carrots, diced
    • 2 celery stalks, diced
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1 bay leaf
    • ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
  • For the dumplings:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
    • ¾ cup buttermilk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large pot with broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through (about 45-60 minutes).

2. Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

3. Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined—do not overmix.

4. Add Dumplings to the Stew

Bring the chicken stew to a gentle simmer. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth. Cover with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, without lifting the lid, until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

5. Finish and Serve

Stir in heavy cream for extra richness (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings

  • Don’t overmix the dumpling dough—this keeps them light and fluffy.
  • Use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor.
  • If you like a thicker stew, make a quick slurry of flour or cornstarch and water, then stir it in before adding dumplings.
  • For extra flavor, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in butter before adding broth.

Variations You Can Try

  • Vegetable-packed: Add peas, corn, or green beans.
  • Herb-infused: Mix fresh parsley, dill, or rosemary into the dumpling dough.
  • Creamy twist: Replace part of the broth with milk or half-and-half.

Serving Suggestions

Serve old-fashioned chicken and dumplings with:

  • Warm buttermilk biscuits
  • A crisp garden salad
  • Steamed green beans
  • Sweet iced tea or lemonade

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze stew (without dumplings) for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed.

Final Thoughts

This classic chicken and dumplings recipe isn’t just food—it’s a nostalgic experience. It brings back memories of family kitchens, warm laughter, and the irresistible aroma of a meal made with love. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises to deliver all the comfort you crave.

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