Name: Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 2 medium carrots; 2 Celery Stalks; 1 Large Onion; 1 tbsp parsley; Salt and ground black pepper; 3 lbs fryer chicken; water; 2 cups self-rising flour; ½ cup vegetable shortening; 1 tsp salt; 8 cups buttermilk

Southern chicken and dumplings is a comforting dish that brings the heartiness of chicken and the fluffy goodness of dumplings. This recipe offers a homestyle flavor that is both satisfying and reminiscent of traditional Southern cooking.

Photos of Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

One of the key ingredients you might not always have on hand is self-rising flour, which can usually be found in the baking aisle. Vegetable shortening is another ingredient to note, typically located near the cooking oils in your supermarket. Lastly, buttermilk can be found in the dairy section, often next to milk and cream.

Ingredients for Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings

extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables to add depth of flavor.

carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.

celery: Provides a subtle crunch and aromatic flavor.

onion: Adds a foundational savory taste to the broth.

parsley: Fresh herb to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

salt: Essential for seasoning the dish throughout the cooking process.

ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

fryer chicken: The main protein, which creates a rich, flavorful stock.

water: Used to create the broth and cook the chicken.

self-rising flour: The base for the dumplings, which ensures they rise and become fluffy.

vegetable shortening: Adds tenderness to the dumplings.

buttermilk: Provides moisture and slight tanginess to the dumplings.

One reader, Donaugh Montague says:

This homemade southern chicken and dumplings recipe is a comforting delight. The tender chicken and fluffy dumplings create a perfect harmony of flavors. The rich, savory broth ties everything together beautifully. A must-try for anyone craving a hearty, soul-warming meal!

Donaugh Montague

Techniques Required for Making Southern Chicken and Dumplings

How to cut in shortening: Use a pastry cutter or two knives to incorporate the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. How to knead dough: Gently fold and press the dough with your hands until it comes together, being careful not to overwork it. How to roll out dough: Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to an even thickness, typically about 1/4 inch. How to shred chicken: Use two forks or your hands to pull the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. How to bring to a boil: Heat the liquid until it reaches a rolling boil, where bubbles are rapidly breaking the surface.

How To Make Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Prepare a hearty dish with this delicious Southern chicken cooked with carrots, celery, and onions, plus homemade dumplings.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 20 minutes

Cool Time: 15 minutes

Total: 2 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspextra-virgin olive oil,or as needed
2medium carrots,chopped
2celery stalks,chopped
1large onion,chopped
1tbspparsley,dried
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
3lbsfryer chicken,(1 whole), giblets removed
water,as needed
2cupsself-rising flour
½cupvegetable shortening
1tspsalt
8cupsbuttermilk

Instructions

Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery, onion, and parsley. Add salt and pepper and cook for about 5 minutes vegetables until they sweat.
Drop the chicken right into the stockpot and add water to cover by 3 to 4 inches. Bring to a boil and cook for about 1 hour until no longer pink in the center and juices run clear.
Meanwhile, place flour in a large bowl; cut in shortening. Add buttermilk slowly until the flour comes together in a large ball.
Knead dough slightly; do not overdo it or dumplings will not be fluffy. Roll dough out and cut into dumpling strips.
Pull cooked chicken out of the pot and let cool until for about 15 minutes safe to handle. Reserve stock.
Shred chicken meat. Pull all veggie chunks out of stock. Add shredded chicken back to the pot with stock and bring to a boil.
Add dumplings slowly, 1 at a time, stirring constantly to keep from sticking. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes until stock is thickened and dumplings are no longer cream-colored, but almost brownish-grey.

Nutrition

Calories: 481.23kcal
Fat: 28.47g
Saturated Fat: 8.13g
Trans Fat: 1.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.35g
Carbohydrates: 26.29g
Fiber: 1.43g
Sugar: 8.98g
Protein: 28.95g
Cholesterol: 91.58mg
Sodium: 785.76mg
Calcium: 286.35mg
Potassium: 570.15mg
Iron: 2.28mg
Vitamin A: 157.32µg
Vitamin C: 5.60mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Southern Chicken and Dumplings

When making the dumplings, ensure that you do not over-knead the dough. Overworking the dough will result in tough dumplings instead of the desired fluffy texture. Aim to knead just enough to bring the dough together, then roll it out and cut into strips.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop carrots, celery, and onion the night before to save time on cooking day.

Use rotisserie chicken: Substitute the fryer chicken with a store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Pre-made stock: Use store-bought chicken stock instead of making your own to speed up the process.

Quick dumplings: Prepare dumpling dough in advance and freeze it. Thaw before use to save time.

One-pot method: Cook the chicken and vegetables together in one pot to reduce cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for sautéing vegetables.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a suitable replacement for carrots in soups and stews.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunch and adds a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor that complements the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions and can be used in the same quantity.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, bright flavor that can be used as a garnish or mixed into the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.
fryer chicken - Substitute with rotisserie chicken: Rotisserie chicken is pre-cooked and seasoned, saving time and adding flavor to the dish.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth and richness to the soup compared to plain water.
self-rising flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder: Use 2 cups of all-purpose flour mixed with 3 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to replicate self-rising flour.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter provides a rich flavor and similar texture, making it a suitable replacement for shortening in dumplings.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and lemon juice: Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with enough milk to make 1 cup; let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. This mimics the acidity and texture of buttermilk.

Presenting Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken and dumplings in a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl to allow for an elegant and controlled portion size. This ensures the dish looks refined and not overly abundant.
Use decoration: Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil around the edge of the bowl to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Layer textures: Place a few pieces of the shredded chicken on top of the dumplings to highlight the different textures. This creates visual interest and emphasizes the quality of the ingredients.
Highlight the broth: Pour a small amount of the reserved stock around the dumplings, ensuring it is clear and rich in color. This showcases the depth of flavor and the careful preparation of the broth.
Add a pop of color: Include finely diced carrots and celery as a garnish on top of the dish. These vegetables add a vibrant pop of color and a hint of crunch.
Use high-quality tableware: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate or bowl with a wide rim to frame the food beautifully. The simplicity of the tableware will allow the colors and textures of the dish to stand out.
Create height: Stack the dumplings slightly to create height and dimension on the plate. This adds a dynamic element to the presentation and makes the dish look more appealing.
Finish with a touch of seasoning: Just before serving, sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and a small amount of sea salt over the top to enhance the flavors and add a final touch of finesse.

Essential Tools for Making Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Large stockpot: A deep pot used for boiling the chicken and cooking the vegetables, as well as for simmering the dumplings.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the vegetables and later the dumplings to prevent them from sticking.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the carrots, celery, and onion.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the self-rising flour and buttermilk.
Large bowl: Used for mixing the flour, shortening, and buttermilk to make the dumpling dough.
Pastry cutter: Helps to cut the shortening into the flour evenly.
Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dumpling dough to the desired thickness.
Knife or pizza cutter: Useful for cutting the rolled-out dough into dumpling strips.
Tongs: Handy for removing the cooked chicken from the pot.
Forks: Used to shred the cooked chicken meat.
Strainer or slotted spoon: Helps to remove the vegetable chunks from the stock.
Ladle: Useful for serving the finished chicken and dumplings.

Storing and Freezing Southern 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.
For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken and dumplings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm them in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
To freeze, transfer the cooled chicken and dumplings to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen chicken and dumplings can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed chicken and dumplings in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little chicken broth or water to thin out the sauce if it has thickened during freezing.
Note: The texture of the dumplings may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken and Dumplings

Reheat in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and prevent the dumplings from becoming too soggy.
Place the leftover chicken and dumplings in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the dumplings to become rubbery.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chicken and dumplings to an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the dumplings and prevents them from becoming too soft.
If the leftover chicken and dumplings have thickened too much during storage, add a small amount of chicken broth or water while reheating to help loosen the consistency and prevent the dish from drying out.
For a crispy top, after reheating the chicken and dumplings using one of the above methods, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This will give the dumplings a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, fluffy interior.

Interesting Fact About Southern Chicken and Dumplings

A unique aspect of this homemade southern chicken and dumplings recipe is the use of buttermilk in the dumplings, which adds a rich, tangy flavor and helps create a tender texture.

Is Making Southern Chicken and Dumplings at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade southern chicken and dumplings recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using basic ingredients like carrots, celery, onion, and a fryer chicken, it maximizes flavor without breaking the bank. The self-rising flour and vegetable shortening for the dumplings are pantry staples, while buttermilk adds a rich texture. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15-$20.

Is This Southern Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The homemade southern chicken and dumplings recipe, while comforting and delicious, may not be the healthiest choice. Here's why:

The recipe uses a significant amount of vegetable shortening, which is high in saturated fats and can contribute to heart disease and other health issues.
Buttermilk, while adding flavor and tenderness, is also high in fat and calories.
The recipe doesn't include a variety of vegetables, focusing mainly on carrots, celery, and onion, which limits the nutritional diversity of the dish.
The use of self-rising flour in the dumplings adds extra sodium to the recipe.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the vegetable shortening with a healthier fat source, such as olive oil or avocado oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats and can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Use low-fat buttermilk or a mixture of low-fat milk and yogurt to reduce the overall fat and calorie content of the dish.
Incorporate a wider variety of vegetables, such as green beans, peas, or spinach, to increase the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the recipe.
Opt for whole wheat flour instead of self-rising flour to increase the fiber content and reduce the sodium levels in the dumplings. You can add baking powder and salt separately to achieve the desired texture.
Trim any excess fat from the chicken before cooking to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of water to add flavor without increasing the sodium content significantly.

Editor's Opinion on This Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

This homemade southern chicken and dumplings recipe captures the essence of comfort food with its hearty, flavorful broth and tender dumplings. The use of buttermilk in the dumplings adds a rich tang, enhancing the overall dish. However, the recipe could benefit from more precise measurements for the vegetables and seasoning to ensure consistent results. Additionally, incorporating some fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering process could elevate the depth of flavor. Overall, it's a solid, traditional recipe that promises a satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Enhance Your Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Collard Greens with Bacon: Imagine a plate of collard greens sautéed with crispy bacon bits, adding a smoky depth that complements the rich flavors of your homemade southern chicken and dumplings. The slight bitterness of the greens is perfectly balanced by the savory bacon, creating a harmonious side dish that will make your taste buds dance.

Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet potato casserole with a crunchy pecan topping brings a touch of sweetness and a delightful texture contrast to your meal. The creamy sweet potatoes meld beautifully with the buttery, nutty topping, offering a comforting and indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with the hearty chicken and dumplings.

Cornbread Muffins: Golden cornbread muffins fresh out of the oven, with a hint of honey, provide a slightly sweet and crumbly companion to your southern chicken and dumplings. These muffins are perfect for soaking up the flavorful stock and adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra offers a delightful contrast to the soft and tender dumplings. The crunchy exterior and tender interior of the okra, seasoned to perfection, add a unique texture and a burst of flavor that enhances the overall dining experience.

Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are a classic southern staple that pairs perfectly with chicken and dumplings. These light and airy biscuits, with their buttery layers, are ideal for sopping up the rich and savory stock, making every bite even more satisfying.

Similar Recipes to Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Classic Chicken Pot Pie: Imagine a golden, flaky crust enveloping a creamy mixture of chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes. This dish is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for any night of the week.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: This rich and velvety soup combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy broth. It's a bowl of pure comfort.

Southern Fried Chicken: Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned crust and juicy interior. Pair it with mashed potatoes and gravy for a true Southern feast.

Chicken and Biscuits: Tender chicken and vegetables in a savory gravy, topped with fluffy biscuits. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo: A hearty and flavorful stew featuring chicken, sausage, and the holy trinity of Cajun vegetables: bell peppers, celery, and onions. Serve it over rice for a taste of Louisiana.

Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushroom caps and hollowing them out. Sauté finely chopped mushroom stems, garlic, and onions in butter until tender. Mix in breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream cheese for richness. Season with salt and pepper, then stuff the mixture back into the mushroom caps. Bake until golden and bubbly, and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color.

Deviled Eggs: Elevate your deviled eggs by incorporating unique flavors. Begin by hard-boiling eggs and slicing them in half. Remove the yolks and mash them with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a splash of white vinegar. For a twist, add finely chopped pickles or a dash of hot sauce. Pipe the creamy mixture back into the egg whites and sprinkle with paprika and chives. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering.

Desserts:

Peach Cobbler: Imagine a warm, bubbling Peach Cobbler straight from the oven, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cobbler features juicy, ripe peaches enveloped in a sweet, buttery crust. The peaches are spiced with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting and aromatic dessert. The crust is golden and slightly crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the tender fruit. Serve it warm, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly, mingling with the peach juices for an irresistible treat.

Banana Pudding: Delight your taste buds with a classic Banana Pudding. Layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and vanilla wafers come together to create a nostalgic and comforting dessert. The pudding is rich and smooth, perfectly complementing the sweet and slightly tangy bananas. The wafers soften as they absorb the flavors, adding a delightful texture to each bite. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed wafers for an extra touch of indulgence.

Why trust this Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe:

This recipe for homemade southern chicken and dumplings is a trusted family favorite, passed down through generations. The use of fresh vegetables and fryer chicken ensures a rich, flavorful broth. The self-rising flour and buttermilk create perfectly fluffy dumplings. Each step is carefully crafted to bring out the best in every ingredient, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.

Want to share your own chicken and dumplings recipe or discuss tips and techniques for making this classic Southern dish? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use any chicken you prefer, but a fryer chicken is recommended for its tenderness and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you use a different type.

What if I don't have self-rising flour?

No worries! You can make your own by mixing 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Can I use butter instead of vegetable shortening?

Absolutely! Butter can be a great substitute for vegetable shortening. Just keep in mind that it might give the dumplings a slightly different texture and flavor.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are done when they are no longer cream-colored and have turned almost brownish-grey. They should also be fluffy and cooked through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken and stock ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you're ready to serve, reheat the stock, add the shredded chicken, and cook the dumplings fresh.