Name: Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 whole rotisserie chicken (or 3-4 chicken breasts); 4 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter (for the dumplings)

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Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food that embodies warmth, richness, and flavor in every bite. This dish has been passed down through generations, with Southern-style chicken and dumplings standing as one of the most beloved variations. It combines tender, seasoned chicken simmered in a rich broth, served alongside soft, fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory goodness. The perfect balance of ingredients and cooking techniques makes it a go-to family favorite for cold nights or whenever you’re craving something hearty. Whether it’s served on a Sunday evening or shared at a family gathering, Southern chicken and dumplings have the power to make any meal feel special. The creamy base paired with the perfect dumplings is the ideal comfort dish that brings a feeling of nostalgia and satisfaction with each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort Food

Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dish that brings back memories of cozy meals with loved ones, perfect for any occasion.

2. Rich and Flavorful

The combination of tender chicken and a creamy, savory broth provides a depth of flavor that makes every bite irresistible. The broth itself is infused with spices and herbs, creating an unforgettable taste.

3. Simple to Make

With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, making this dish is easier than you might think. It requires minimal preparation and cook time, leaving you with plenty of time to relax while it simmers.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

You can add vegetables, herbs, or spices to make this recipe your own. Whether you like it extra creamy or prefer a more broth-based version, this dish adapts to your preferences.

5. Feeds a Crowd

This recipe is perfect for feeding a large group or meal prepping for the week. It’s filling and satisfying, making it great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Chicken (preferably bone-in)
Flour
Baking powder
Butter
Chicken broth
Milk
Heavy cream
Onion
Celery
Carrots
Garlic
Fresh parsley
Thyme
Salt
Pepper

Variations

Vegetable Additions: Add peas, corn, or green beans to give the dish an extra burst of color and nutrition.
Herb Variations: Switch out thyme for rosemary or sage to alter the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Gluten-Free: Replace the flour in the dumplings with a gluten-free alternative to cater to dietary needs.
Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker version, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken in a large pot. You can either boil it or sauté it until it’s cooked through and tender. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Create the Broth Base

In the same pot, add butter and sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened. Then, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Make the Dumplings

In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Cut in the butter, then add milk until the dough comes together. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook properly. The dumplings should be puffed and cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Once the dumplings are cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let it all simmer for an additional 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Dumplings: When adding the dumplings to the broth, make sure they have enough space to puff up properly.
Use Bone-in Chicken: Cooking chicken with the bone in imparts more flavor to the broth.
Adjust Consistency: If you want a thicker broth, let it simmer longer. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or milk.
Herb Freshness: Fresh thyme and parsley bring the most flavor, but you can use dried herbs if needed—just be sure to adjust the quantities.
Avoid Overmixing the Dumplings: When making the dumpling dough, avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough dumplings.

How to Serve

Serve this dish in large bowls, ensuring each serving has both chicken and dumplings. It pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables. For a more indulgent meal, top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and dumplings, but note that the dumplings may become slightly dense after freezing and reheating. Let it cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to preserve the flavors and texture.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat slowly on the stovetop. Add a bit more broth or milk if the dish has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to give a richer flavor and tenderness.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add mushrooms or tofu for a protein boost.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, frozen chicken works. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before shredding.

4. Can I use store-bought dumplings?

You can substitute store-bought dumplings if you’re short on time, but homemade dumplings add the best flavor and texture.

5. How can I make the broth more flavorful?

Consider adding extra herbs, such as bay leaves or rosemary, and even a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a bit of acidity.

6. Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe isn’t spicy by default, but you can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste for some heat.

7. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker on low, then add the dumplings in the final hour of cooking.

8. Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, feel free to substitute almond milk, oat milk, or another non-dairy option.

9. Can I freeze the dumplings?

It’s best to freeze the entire dish, as freezing the dumplings separately can change their texture.

10. How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings will puff up and should be firm to the touch, not doughy inside.

Conclusion

Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings is a perfect blend of comfort and flavor that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish brings people together with its savory richness and the delightful fluffiness of the dumplings. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this is a recipe you’ll return to time and again. So, gather your family and enjoy a heartwarming meal that will leave everyone satisfied and craving more!