This old fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe is comfort food at its finest. A hearty broth made from slow-simmered chicken, vegetables and spices, it's the perfect backdrop for fluffy, homemade dumplings.
The ingredients in this recipe are fairly common household items, with possibly the exception of the shortening used in the dumplings. You can easily find shortening in the baking aisle of your local supermarket.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken: The core of this dish, a whole chicken is simmered to create a flavorful broth and tender meat for the soup.
Onion: Adds a base of flavor to the broth.
Carrots: Adds color, flavor and nutrition to the soup.
Celery: Another base flavor for the broth.
Chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the soup. You can use homemade or store bought.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the broth.
Flour: Key ingredient in making the dumplings.
Shortening: Used to give the dumplings a light, flaky texture.
Baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise.
Milk: Adds richness to the dumplings.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the broth to your desired consistency.
Parsley: Used for garnish and adds a burst of fresh flavor at the end.
One reader, Haslett Herndon says:
This old fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe is a true comfort food. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the dumplings are light and fluffy. The combination of tender chicken and hearty vegetables creates a delicious and satisfying meal. It's a timeless classic that always brings warmth and joy to the table.
Key Techniques for Perfecting Chicken and Dumplings
How to prepare the broth: Simmer the chicken, onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot with low sodium chicken broth, salt, pepper, and a bay leaf until the chicken is tender.
How to make the dumplings: Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening, then gradually add milk and mix until a smooth dough forms. Roll out the dough, cut it into strips, and cook in the broth until tender.
How to thicken the broth: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with water, then add it to the boiling broth a little at a time, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
How To Make Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
This classic chicken and dumplings recipe involves simmering chicken and making dumplings from scratch. It’s a highly tasty dish that is best served warm.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Broth:
- 1chicken,cut into pieces
- 1onion
- 3largecarrots,cut into thirds
- 3stalkscelery,cut into thirds
- 8cupslow sodium chicken broth
- salt & pepper,to taste
- bay leaf,or a pinch of poultry seasoning, optional
For Dumplings:
- 1¾cupsflour,plus extra for dusting
- ⅓cupshortening
- ½tspbaking powder
- ¾cupmilk
- ½tspsalt
For Garnish:
- 4tbspcornstarch
- parsley
Instructions
-
Combine chicken, onion, carrots and celery in a large pot. Season to taste.
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Add chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered 45 to 60 minutes or until chicken is tender.
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Remove chicken and vegetables from the broth. Discard skin and bones and chop the remaining chicken, set aside.
-
Gently add dumplings to the broth. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until tender.
-
Stir chicken into the broth and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through.
-
Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening with a fork until shortening is mixed in.
-
Add milk a little at a time and mix until combined.
-
Knead a few times on a floured surface until dough is smooth.
-
Generously flour your surface and roll the dough out to ⅛-inch thick. Cut dough into 1×2-inch strips. Flour generously to avoid sticking.
-
Cook in broth as directed above.
-
In a small bowl combine 4 tablespoons of cornstarch with 4 tablespoons of water.
-
Add to boiling broth a little bit at a time stirring to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Calories: 591.64kcal
- Fat: 33.86g
- Saturated Fat: 9.56g
- Trans Fat: 1.27g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.79g
- Carbohydrates: 34.53g
- Fiber: 2.61g
- Sugar: 3.73g
- Protein: 37.05g
- Cholesterol: 114.79mg
- Sodium: 1203.01mg
- Calcium: 116.32mg
- Potassium: 734.32mg
- Iron: 3.37mg
- Vitamin A: 327.03µg
- Vitamin C: 13.12mg
Expert Advice for Mastering Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
When preparing the dumplings, ensure you don't overwork the dough. Overworking can lead to tough, dense dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones. The dough should just come together, with visible bits of shortening in it. This will result in tender, flaky dumplings. Also, when adding the dumplings to the broth, make sure the broth is simmering, not boiling. Boiling can cause the dumplings to fall apart. Simmering will cook them gently, preserving their shape and texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Classic Dish
Prep ahead: Chop and store the vegetables and chicken in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use pre-made broth: To save time, you can use store-bought low sodium chicken broth instead of making it from scratch.
Multi-task: While the chicken is simmering, use that time to prepare the dumpling dough to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Quick thickening: Use a cornstarch slurry to quickly thicken the broth instead of waiting for it to reduce naturally.
Efficient rolling: Roll out the dumpling dough thinly and uniformly to ensure even cooking and save time during the simmering process.
Substitute Ingredients For Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken in this recipe, providing a similar texture and taste to the dish.
- onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, adding a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the broth.
- carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can be used as a substitute for carrots, offering a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor to the broth.
- celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel can be used as a substitute for celery, providing a similar crunch and a hint of anise flavor to the broth.
- low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the dish while catering to vegetarian preferences.
- shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for shortening, adding richness and flavor to the dumplings.
- baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: A mixture of baking soda and cream of tartar can be used as a substitute for baking powder, providing leavening agents for the dumplings.
- milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can be used as a substitute for milk, adding a tangy flavor and tender texture to the dumplings.
- cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the broth, providing a similar thickening effect.
Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Elevate the broth: Strain the broth to remove any impurities and achieve a clear, refined consistency. Infuse the broth with aromatic herbs such as thyme and rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
Artfully arrange the dumplings: Place the tender, pillowy dumplings in the center of the bowl, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing. This will create an inviting presentation that showcases the homemade quality of the dish.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken and dumplings to add a pop of vibrant color and a hint of freshness. This delicate touch will enhance the visual appeal and provide a subtle contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Emphasize the chicken: Arrange the chopped chicken pieces strategically around the dumplings, creating a focal point that highlights the star ingredient of the dish. This will showcase the succulent, tender chicken and entice the senses.
Use elegant serving vessels: Present the chicken and dumplings in sophisticated, porcelain bowls to elevate the dining experience. The classic and timeless appeal of porcelain will complement the rustic charm of the dish.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing some negative space around the main components of the dish. This will create a visually striking presentation that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Add a touch of luxury: Consider serving the chicken and dumplings with a side of truffle oil or shaved truffles to introduce a touch of luxury and elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish. This indulgent addition will captivate the palate and elevate the dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Making Chicken and Dumplings
- Large pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is essential for making the broth and cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board is necessary for chopping the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting the vegetables and chicken.
- Fork: A fork is used to mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening for the dumplings.
- Rolling pin: A rolling pin is needed to roll out the dumpling dough to the desired thickness.
- Small bowl: A small bowl is used to combine the cornstarch with water for thickening the broth.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are important for the flour, baking powder, milk, and other ingredients in the recipe.
- Flour sifter: A flour sifter can be used to sift the flour before making the dumplings for a lighter texture.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the broth and dumplings without damaging the pot.
Preserving and Freezing Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dumplings soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chicken and dumplings to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Divide the cooled chicken and dumplings into individual portions or family-sized servings.
- Place the portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
To reheat frozen chicken and dumplings:
- Thaw the desired portion overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed chicken and dumplings to a saucepan or pot.
- Gently reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a little chicken broth or water if needed to thin out the consistency.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring every 30-60 seconds until heated through.
If you plan to freeze the chicken and dumplings, consider undercooking the dumplings slightly. This way, when you reheat them, they won't become overcooked and mushy.
Avoid freezing chicken and dumplings multiple times, as the quality and texture may deteriorate with each freeze-thaw cycle.
Reheating Leftover Chicken and Dumplings for Optimal Taste
Reheat old fashioned chicken and dumplings in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the dumplings and prevents them from becoming mushy.
If the chicken and dumplings appear too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin out the consistency while reheating.
For individual portions, microwave the old fashioned chicken and dumplings in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a damp paper towel, in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
To reheat larger portions, transfer the old fashioned chicken and dumplings to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have stored the dumplings and the chicken mixture separately, reheat the chicken mixture first, then add the dumplings and simmer until they are heated through and have absorbed some of the liquid.
To maintain the texture of the dumplings, avoid reheating them for too long or at too high a temperature, as this can cause them to become gummy or fall apart.
If you find that the old fashioned chicken and dumplings have thickened too much upon refrigeration, gradually stir in some chicken broth or water while reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
Interesting Trivia About Chicken and Dumplings
The Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a traditional comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a classic dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to those who enjoy it. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and hearty meal. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings makes it a beloved dish in many households. Whether it's a cold winter day or just a craving for some homemade goodness, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food: Chicken and Dumplings
The cost-effectiveness of this chicken and dumplings recipe is quite high, as it utilizes simple and affordable ingredients. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and basic pantry items results in a hearty and satisfying meal for a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, simplicity, and delicious outcome.
Is This Comfort Food Classic Healthy or Not?
This old-fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like chicken, onion, carrots, and celery, which provide protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The use of low-sodium chicken broth is also a healthier choice compared to regular broth. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as the dumplings made with refined flour and shortening, which are high in calories and saturated fat. Additionally, the recipe doesn't specify the amount of salt and pepper used, which could lead to excessive sodium intake if not monitored carefully.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the refined flour in the dumplings with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or chickpea flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Use a healthier fat source instead of shortening, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil, which contain more beneficial fatty acids
- Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe and rely more on herbs and spices for flavor, such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder
- Include more vegetables in the broth, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
- Serve the chicken and dumplings with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more fiber and vitamins
Our Editor's Opinion on This Timeless Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
This old-fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe is a comforting classic that brings together tender chicken, flavorful broth, and hearty dumplings. The method of simmering the chicken with aromatic vegetables infuses the broth with rich flavors, while the fluffy dumplings add a delightful texture. The addition of cornstarch slurry at the end creates a luscious, velvety finish to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a timeless favorite that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food.
Enhance Your Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Chicken and Dumplings
Why trust this Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe:
This recipe is a timeless classic, using fresh chicken and wholesome vegetables to create a hearty and comforting dish. The homemade dumplings are light and fluffy, adding a delightful texture to the dish. The use of low sodium chicken broth ensures a balanced flavor, while the addition of bay leaf infuses a subtle aromatic note. The step-by-step instructions guarantee a successful outcome, and the incorporation of cornstarch for thickening ensures a perfect consistency. Trust in this recipe for a soul-warming meal that will surely become a family favorite.
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