There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of Homemade Chicken & Dumplings. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, reminding you of family gatherings, cozy kitchens, and lovingly prepared dinners. This classic recipe blends tender chunks of chicken with rich homemade broth and soft, fluffy dumplings, making it a quintessential comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a quick weeknight dinner or a chilly Sunday afternoon. If you’re looking for a dish that fills the soul as much as it fills the belly, look no further than this delightful homemade chicken and dumplings recipe.
Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it also embodies simplicity and flavor with every bite. The combination of fresh ingredients, layered with aromatic herbs and spices, elevates this traditional dish into something truly special. Making this from scratch means you can control the flavors and the quality of the ingredients, ensuring that it meets your family’s taste preferences. Plus, we’re all about making cooking enjoyable and stress-free, and this one-pot wonder minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavors.
If you’re someone who loves rekindling childhood memories through food, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Gather your loved ones, invite them to join in on the fun of cooking, and experience the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal together. Your craving for comfort food will be fully satisfied with this Homemade Chicken & Dumplings!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
- Classic comfort food that evokes nostalgia.
- Rich, homemade broth packed with nutrients.
- Soft and fluffy dumplings that are easy to make.
- Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
- One-pot meal, meaning easy cleanup!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Getting ready to make Homemade Chicken & Dumplings requires minimal effort in preparation but ensures all your ingredients are fresh and ready to go. Start by gathering your tools: a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking, a cutting board, sharp knife for chopping vegetables, and a large mixing bowl for preparing your dumpling dough. Keep a sturdy whisk on hand for mixing, and a rolling pin will be handy for flattening out your dumpling dough.
Before you begin, ensure your workspace is clean, and all ingredients are measured out, as this helps streamline the cooking process. Have your chicken and vegetables washed and prepped, as ready ingredients will speed up the cooking time significantly. Once everything is set and the broth is bubbling, you’ll have all the ingredients coming together in harmony, freeing you up to enjoy the cooking experience!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (or 2–3 lbs bone-in chicken pieces)
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 10 cups water (or enough to cover the chicken)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1/3 cup cold butter or shortening
- 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper into a large pot. Pour in enough water to completely cover the chicken. Bring this mixture to a vigorous boil, and then reduce the heat to let it gently simmer for about 45–60 minutes. This slow cooking process not only ensures that the chicken becomes tender but also allows the flavors from the vegetables and seasonings to infuse deeply into the broth.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
After your chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot. If necessary, strain the broth to eliminate any small bits of vegetables that may have broken down to maintain a smooth texture. Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using a fork. Set the shredded chicken aside, and let’s move on to making those delicious dumplings!
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. When blended, add the cold butter (or shortening) and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it gives the dumplings their signature texture. Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough begins to form. Avoid overmixing as this can lead to tough dumplings. You want a soft, pliable dough that’s easy to roll out.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dumplings
On a floured surface, roll out the dumpling dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. You can then cut this into strips or squares, depending on your preference. The shapes don’t have to be perfect; they will puff up and taste wonderful regardless!
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
Return the broth to a gentle boil, and carefully drop the dumplings in one at a time. This step is where the magic happens, as they will cook and expand in the hot broth, becoming soft and pillowy. Allow them to simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes, gently stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the dumplings and broth, allowing everything to simmer together for an additional 5–10 minutes. This helps to meld all the flavors together. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian option using mushrooms or lentils.
- Vegetables: Add more vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as thyme, rosemary, or Cajun seasoning for a unique twist.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
- Keep an eye on the dumplings; overcooking can cause them to disintegrate.
- If your broth is too salty, add carrots or potatoes to balance the flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm loaf of bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Tips
- Use homemade broth if possible for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering process for the chicken; letting it cook longer enhances the broth.
- Feel free to play with spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
- Dumplings may be cooked in reduced salt broth for a healthier option.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken can save time, and you can skip the initial cooking of the chicken in the broth.
How do I store leftovers of chicken and dumplings?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze chicken and dumplings; however, the dumplings may lose their texture after thawing. It’s best to freeze the broth and chicken separately.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
It pairs well with a simple green salad or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the comforting broth.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through this delightful Homemade Chicken & Dumplings recipe, it’s clear that this dish embodies everything we love about comfort food: rich flavors, cozy textures, and the joy of gathering around the dinner table with family and friends. Whether made from scratch or with your favorite shortcuts, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, nourishing meals that bring people together. We hope you try it out, and encourage you to experiment with your own twists—whether that’s adding extra vegetables, using different proteins, or switching up the seasonings. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with others, leave a comment, or let us know how your version turned out. Happy cooking!
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Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
There's something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of Homemade Chicken & Dumplings.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (or 2–3 lbs bone-in chicken pieces)
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 10 cups water (or enough to cover the chicken)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1/3 cup cold butter or shortening
- 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper into a large pot. Pour in enough water to completely cover the chicken. Bring this mixture to a vigorous boil, and then reduce the heat to let it gently simmer for about 45–60 minutes.
- After your chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot. Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using a fork.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough begins to form.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dumpling dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut this into strips or squares.
- Return the broth to a gentle boil, and carefully drop the dumplings in one at a time. Allow them to simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes.
- Finally, add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the dumplings and broth, allowing everything to simmer together for an additional 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 30 g