Chicken and Dumplings – Easyrecipes

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Introduction

Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless comfort food dish that warms the soul and satisfies hunger. Known for its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, it has become a beloved staple in Southern American cuisine and beyond. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, this hearty meal offers the perfect balance of savory goodness and homestyle nostalgia.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The origins of Chicken and Dumplings trace back to early European settlers who combined simple ingredients to create hearty meals during hard times. The dish gained particular prominence in the American South, where farm families used leftover chicken and pantry staples to make nourishing stews. Over generations, it evolved into a cultural symbol of comfort, family unity, and resilience — often passed down through family recipes and shared during holidays or community gatherings.

Ingredients and Quantity

For the Chicken Stew:

2 lbs (900 g) bone-in chicken (thighs or breasts)
6 cups (1.4 L) chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240 ml) milk or heavy cream
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)

For the Dumplings:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
3 tbsp butter (cold, cubed)
1 cup (240 ml) milk

Optional Additions

Fresh parsley for garnish
½ cup peas or corn for extra vegetables
A dash of hot sauce for a little kick
A squeeze of lemon for brightness

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the dumpling dough. A light touch ensures fluffy, tender dumplings.
Simmer gently. Boiling too hard can cause the dumplings to break apart.
Use good broth. Homemade or high-quality stock deepens the flavor.
Let it rest. Allowing the dish to sit for 10 minutes after cooking enhances flavor and texture.

Instructions

Cook the chicken: In a large pot, add chicken, broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is tender.
Shred the chicken: Remove chicken from the pot, shred it, and set aside.
Make the roux: In the same pot, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
Combine: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir to combine and keep on low heat.
Prepare the dumplings: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly, then stir in milk until a soft dough forms.
Cook the dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering stew. Cover and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Description

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe yields a bowl of creamy, savory comfort with tender shreds of chicken and soft, cloud-like dumplings. The broth is thick and rich, coating each bite with warmth and flavor. It’s the definition of homestyle cooking — simple, satisfying, and nourishing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 890 mg

(Values vary depending on ingredients and portion size.)

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings stands as a beautiful reminder that simplicity and comfort can create extraordinary meals. Its roots in tradition and its heartwarming flavor make it a timeless favorite across generations.

Recommendation

Serve this dish with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness. For dessert, consider something light like fruit salad or lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While Chicken and Dumplings is a comfort dish, it can be made more healthful without losing its soul. Try using whole-grain flour for dumplings, low-sodium broth, and lean chicken breast. Adding extra vegetables enhances nutrition and texture, turning a traditional indulgence into a wholesome, balanced meal that feeds both body and spirit.

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