Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings: A Comfort Food Classic

Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is the kind of dish that warms your heart and your kitchen. With tender chicken, rich savory broth, and pillowy dumplings, it’s no wonder this recipe has been passed down for generations. In this guide, we’ll explore the history, share the step-by-step recipe, and give you tips to make it perfect every time.

A Brief History of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings has deep roots in Southern and Midwestern American cuisine. Traditionally made to stretch simple ingredients into a filling meal, the dish combines slow-simmered chicken with a rich stock and dumplings made from flour, baking powder, and milk. It’s a staple at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and cozy winter nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: Warm, creamy, and filling.

• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples you likely already have.

• Customizable: Add vegetables, herbs, or even a bit of cream for richness.

Ingredients

For the chicken stew:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs), cut into pieces

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)

• ¾ cup whole milk

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

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Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, combine the chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

2. Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and discard the skin and bones. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot.

3. Make the Dumpling Dough

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and parsley. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined—do not overmix.

4. Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering stew. Cover the pot tightly and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to allow dumplings to steam and puff up.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chicken, broth, and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect Dumplings

• Don’t peek: Opening the lid releases steam and can make dumplings heavy.

• Use rich broth: A homemade or high-quality stock makes a huge flavor difference.

• Add vegetables: Peas, corn, or mushrooms work beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while vegetables add vitamins and fiber. Dumplings make it filling, perfect for a one-pot family meal.

Final Thoughts

Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless comfort food that’s as satisfying today as it was in your grandmother’s kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a Sunday supper or craving something cozy on a rainy day, this recipe delivers flavor, nostalgia, and warmth in every bite.