Chicken and Dumplings: A Timeless Comfort Food Classic
Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved dish with deep roots in Southern cooking and a history that spans generations. Known for its hearty, comforting qualities, this dish originated as a way to make simple ingredients go further. During the Great Depression, families often turned to dishes like this one to stretch their food budget, using affordable staples like chicken, flour, and broth. Over time, it evolved from humble beginnings into a cherished comfort food served at family dinners, Sunday gatherings, and holidays.
What makes chicken and dumplings so special is the balance of rich flavors and contrasting textures. The creamy broth is infused with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices, while the dumplings are light, fluffy, and perfectly comforting. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it the ultimate dish for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a little extra coziness.
This dish is endlessly adaptable to your preferences. While traditional recipes often stick to simple seasonings, modern versions have introduced herbs like thyme and parsley, or even a splash of white wine for added depth. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own from scratch for an even more flavorful base. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or a crisp side salad, Chicken and Dumplings is a dish that’s guaranteed to please.
Chicken and Dumplings: A Classic Comfort Food
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, this one-pot meal is easy to make and packed with heartwarming flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup milk
Instructions
- Make the Stew:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, shredded chicken, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer while you prepare the dumplings. - Make the Dumplings:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and milk until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky. - Cook the Dumplings:
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering stew. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 12–15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook properly. - Serve:
Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the stew while it simmers.
- If you prefer thicker broth, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew before adding the dumplings.
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a cozy classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re craving a warm, homemade meal!
