Chicken and Dumplings – Easy Recipe for Cozy Comfort

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Chicken and Dumplings to evoke memories of home, warmth, and cozy comfort. This classic Southern-style dish, featuring tender shredded chicken and hearty homemade flat dumplings, is the ultimate comfort food for cold days or whenever you crave something deeply satisfying. This old-fashioned recipe is simple yet rich in flavor, with each bite delivering a taste of nostalgic goodness. Whether you’re new to making dumplings from scratch or a seasoned cook, this guide will help you create the perfect Chicken and Dumplings with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

This version of Chicken and Dumplings stands out for its simplicity and authenticity. Made with basic pantry staples, it’s a no-fuss meal that fills your home with the comforting aroma of simmering chicken broth and fresh dumplings. Unlike the fluffy, biscuit-style dumplings, this recipe features flat dumplings that soak up every bit of flavor from the broth, resulting in a rich, velvety texture. It’s perfect for feeding a family or for meal-prepping during colder months. Plus, it’s flexible—great for using leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie.

What You’ll Need: Ingredients Breakdown

• Chicken Breasts: The protein foundation—tender and easy to shred once baked or boiled.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and richness; opt for low-sodium or homemade for full control over flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for dumplings; contributes to thickening the broth as well.
• Baking Powder: Gives a light lift to the dumplings, preventing them from becoming too dense.
• Salted Butter: Brings richness and flakiness to the dumplings.
• Milk: Whole milk is preferred for soft, tender dumplings.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• Olive or Avocado Oil: Used to coat the chicken before baking for a golden, flavorful crust.

Ingredient Substitutions and Helpful Alternatives

• Dark Meat or Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for juicier, richer results.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken—just shred and add it to the broth.
• Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; adjust the dough’s texture as needed.
• Plant-Based Milk: Almond or oat milk can be used in place of dairy, though the flavor may vary slightly.
• Vegetable Broth: For a lighter or vegetarian-style version (without the chicken, of course), this can be a flavorful base.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

1. Prep and Bake Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place 2–3 chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer for quicker results.
3. Warm the Broth: In a large pot, pour in 2 quarts of chicken broth and begin warming it on the stovetop over medium heat.
4. Make Dumpling Dough: In a bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Add in 2 tablespoons of cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in 1 cup of milk and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll and Cut Dumplings: Generously flour your countertop and roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice into squares—rustic, imperfect shapes are just fine.
6. Add Chicken to Broth: Bring the broth to a gentle boil and stir in the shredded chicken.
7. Cook Dumplings: Add the dumplings one at a time into the pot to avoid sticking. Stir gently and often. Let them simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until tender and no longer doughy. The flour will naturally thicken the broth as they cook.
8. Taste and Serve: Test a dumpling to ensure it’s cooked through. Once satisfied with the texture, serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of Chicken and Dumplings.

Kitchen Tips to Master Chicken and Dumplings

• Don’t Skip the Extra Flour: Dusting dumplings before adding them to the pot helps thicken the broth naturally.
• Fresh Baking Powder: Ensure your leavening agent is fresh for the best dumpling texture.
• Avoid Overworking the Dough: Handle gently to keep dumplings tender.
• Taste as You Go: Check the seasoning before serving; broth can vary in saltiness.
• Use a Large Pot: Dumplings need space to expand and cook evenly.
• Serve Immediately: Dumplings continue to absorb broth over time, which can make them overly soft or gummy when stored.

Serving Suggestions and Recipe Variations

• Classic Pairings: Serve with warm biscuits, crusty French bread, or a side salad for balance.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in peas, carrots, or corn for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream at the end for extra richness.
• Make-Ahead Tips: Prep dumpling dough in advance and refrigerate. Reheat gently with added broth if needed.

A Southern Staple with Generations of Flavor

Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a dish—it’s a Southern heritage meal passed down through generations. Whether you remember it from your grandmother’s kitchen or are discovering it for the first time, this recipe connects you to the heart of home cooking. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and homemade dumplings, it’s a timeless favorite that nourishes both body and soul.

Wrapping Up: The Comfort of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

There’s a reason Chicken and Dumplings has remained a beloved comfort food across generations—it’s simple, satisfying, and made with love. This recipe brings that old-fashioned charm to your table with easy-to-follow steps and ingredients you likely already have. Whether you’re making it for your family on a chilly night or prepping it ahead for a warm meal during the week, it’s bound to become a go-to in your home. With tender chicken, rich broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings, this dish delivers on every comforting promise. So roll up your sleeves, get your broth simmering, and experience the magic of true Southern comfort food.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Dumplings

More Relevant Recipes

• Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings: A slow-cooked version of the classic dish, this recipe offers all the cozy comfort of traditional Chicken and Dumplings with the ease of set-it-and-forget-it cooking. Perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal ready by dinner.
• Shepherd’s Pie – Easy Comfort Food: This hearty casserole layers seasoned ground meat, veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes—ideal for those who love old-fashioned, filling meals just like Chicken and Dumplings.
• Shredded Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: A Southern comfort classic, this dish features tender shredded chicken smothered in savory gravy, served over fluffy mashed potatoes. It delivers the same warm, satisfying flavors as Chicken and Dumplings.

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