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Step back in time with this comforting, classic recipe for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings. This dish has been a staple in kitchens for generations, offering warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
Tender chicken is simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, and topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.
It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Simple yet satisfying, this dish is sure to bring a touch of nostalgia and plenty of smiles to your table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cut into pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
Directions
Prepare the Chicken and Broth
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a large pot and covering them with the chicken broth. Add the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, bay leaves, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot and letting it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Continue simmering the broth and vegetables while you shred the chicken. Once cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones from the chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones, then return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Prepare the Dumplings
While the broth is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the milk until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough dumplings.
Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering broth and chicken, making sure they are evenly spaced and not too large. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fluffy and cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook evenly.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are cooked, ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, making sure to get a bit of everything in each serving. The rich broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the comforting taste of home.
Tips
- Chicken Options: While a whole chicken provides the richest flavor, you can also use chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the cuts you use.
- Dumpling Tips: For lighter, fluffier dumplings, be sure not to overwork the dough. You want to mix it just until the ingredients come together.
- Thickening the Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, you can whisk together a slurry of flour and water and stir it into the broth before adding the dumplings. This will give the broth a slightly thicker, gravy-like consistency.
- Leftovers: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, offering a taste of tradition in every bite. Perfect for when you need a little extra warmth and comfort, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Enjoy!
