As the rain patters softly against my kitchen window, I find myself reaching for a time-honored favorite: Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is a warm embrace on a chilly evening, where tender pieces of chicken mingle with fluffy, homemade dumplings, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. It’s an easy recipe that not only brings comfort but also quick satisfaction, allowing you to whip up a hearty meal in under an hour. The combination of flavors and nostalgia makes it perfect for anyone looking to create something homemade that feels like a hug in a bowl. So, are you ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of this classic comfort food? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?
Nostalgic Comfort: This recipe wraps you in warmth, evoking fond memories of family gatherings and hearty meals.
Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like a labor of love without the fuss.
Homemade Dumplings: Skip the store-bought options; these fluffy dumplings absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth for a truly homemade touch.
Hearty Satisfaction: Each serving is a cozy reminder that simple ingredients can create fulfilling dishes—perfect for those craving home-cooked meals over fast food options.
Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to personalize by adding frozen vegetables or swapping in dark meat chicken for a richer flavor. Pair this dish with a refreshing side salad or buttery biscuits for an unbeatable weeknight dinner, just like my Grilled Chicken Sandwich or Stuffed Chicken Roulade.
Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broth
• Chicken – Use raw chicken breasts for a fresh flavor, or rotisserie chicken for a faster option.
• Onion – Adds depth to the broth; shallots are a fine substitute if preferred.
• Chicken Broth – Homemade is ideal, but store-bought will work in a pinch for quick preparation.
For the Dumplings
• Flour – Use all-purpose flour for the dumpling structure; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Baking Powder – Essential for fluffy dumplings; always use a fresh batch for optimal rise.
• Butter – Keep it cold to ensure a delightful texture in your dumplings.
• Milk – Whole milk is best for hydration; feel free to substitute with a non-dairy option if needed.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavors in your Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Boil Chicken and Onion
In a large pot, combine raw chicken breasts and diced onion with chicken broth over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a lively boil and reduce to a simmer once it bubbles. Cook the chicken thoroughly for about 15-20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare Dumpling Mixture
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder until well combined. This mixture will form the foundation of your dumplings. To add richness, cut in cold butter into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step should create a crumbly texture, ensuring fluffy dumplings later.
Step 3: Form the Dumpling Dough
Now, gradually stir in the milk into the flour and butter mixture until a dough forms. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the dough as this can lead to dense dumplings. At this point, your Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is starting to take shape, creating anticipation for the cozy meal ahead!
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough
Flour your work surface generously to prevent sticking, then roll out the dumpling dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares or rectangles, roughly 2 inches in size. The visual of these freshly cut dumplings will surely excite your kitchen senses!
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
Return the broth in the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat. Carefully drop the dumplings into the bubbling broth, ensuring they don’t stick together. Cook for 10-15 minutes until they double in size and become firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, and poke one with a fork to test doneness; they should feel fluffy and cooked through.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Serve
After the dumplings are cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring gently to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. As you prepare to serve, the aroma of Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a comforting meal.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Imagine creating a heartwarming dinner experience that pairs beautifully with your cozy dish of chicken and dumplings.
- Buttery Biscuits: Their flaky texture provides a delightful contrast for scooping up that savory broth.
- Simple House Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to the meal, cutting through the richness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Choices like green beans or carrots offer a pop of color and a nutritious, crunchy element that complements the warmth of the dumplings.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, crumbly cornbread is perfect for dipping, enhancing the comfort food vibe.
- Garlic Bread: This savory side brings a delectable aroma, encouraging your family to dig into their bowls of delicious chicken and dumplings.
- Peach Cobbler: For dessert, a warm peach cobbler is an ideal finish, offering sweetness that completes a heartwarming meal.
Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to get creative with these comforting chicken and dumplings, making them truly your own!
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Add Veggies: Incorporate frozen peas, carrots, or corn to enhance nutrition and add color. This little twist can make it feel like a complete meal.
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Use Dark Meat: Swap chicken breasts for juicy thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. The extra moisture in dark meat elevates the comfort experience.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be mixed into the dumpling dough, giving your dish a fantastic aroma and flavor boost.
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Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, add pinches of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the broth. It’s a delightful way to awaken your taste buds.
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Cheesy Dumplings: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar to the dumpling dough for a gooey surprise. Each bite becomes a cheesy delight that pairs wonderfully with the broth.
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Shortcut Dumplings: If you’re short on time, use refrigerated biscuit dough instead of homemade. Just cut into quarters and drop them into the broth for quicker prep.
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Seasonal Twist: In the fall, add pumpkin puree to the dumplings for a seasonal flare. This pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and broth.
Make sure to pair these variations with a side, like a fresh house salad or some buttery biscuits, to complete your wholesome meal. And if you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, check out my Chicken Fajitas Discover or a tasty Bbq Chicken Salad. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Keep leftover Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3-4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating: When reheating, add a little extra broth or water to prevent the dumplings from getting dry. Heat on low and stir occasionally for even warming.
Leftovers: Consider using leftover chicken for added flavor; it works perfectly for creating a new batch or enhancing future soups!
Make Ahead Options
Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights. You can cook the chicken and prepare the broth up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply refrigerate the shredded chicken and broth in airtight containers. You can also make the dumpling dough up to 24 hours ahead; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the broth, add the dumplings, and cook for 10-15 minutes until they’re fluffy, then stir in the chicken. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty homemade meal, just as comforting and delicious as when made fresh!
Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
• Homemade Over Store-Bought: Always opt for homemade dumplings; they absorb the broth better and elevate the dish beyond expectations.
• Timing Matters: Be attentive while cooking dumplings. If overcooked, they can become chewy; check for fluffiness by tasting.
• Leftover Magic: Using leftover chicken adds depth of flavor. Pair with a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra zing.
• Broth is Key: Ensure your broth is well-seasoned before adding dumplings. Taste and adjust; a well-flavored base is crucial for your Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings.
• Dough Consistency: Don’t overmix your dumpling dough; gentle handling yields lighter dumplings—just like Grandma used to make!
Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using raw chicken breasts or thighs as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—just shred it and add it to the broth at the end.
How should I store leftover Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?
I often store leftover Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm it on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to keep the dumplings moist.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this dish! For optimal texture, I recommend freezing portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3-4 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop with a touch of broth to maintain moisture.
What if my dumplings are too dense or chewy?
Very! If your dumplings turn out dense, this may be due to overmixing the dough or cooking them for too long. For fluffy dumplings, mix just until combined and keep an eye on the cooking time—10-15 minutes in the broth should be just right! If they’re still doughy, give them a few extra minutes in boiling broth until they firm up.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute whole milk with a non-dairy alternative, like almond or oat milk, without sacrificing flavor. For gluten-free dumplings, I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend. Always double-check for allergies, especially with seasonings and broths.
Comforting Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine the raw chicken breasts and diced onion with chicken broth over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually stir in the milk until a dough forms, mixing gently until just combined.
- Flour a work surface, roll out dumpling dough to 1/4 inch thickness, and cut into 2-inch squares.
- Return the broth to a gentle boil and add the dumplings. Cook for 10-15 minutes until they double in size and are firm to the touch.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, stir gently and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.