Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This dish consists of tender dumplings and juicy chicken cooked in a homemade broth that is both flavorful and satisfying. The recipe is simple and easy to make, which makes it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

There are many variations of the old fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe, but the basic ingredients remain the same. The chicken is usually cooked with vegetables and spices to create a rich and flavorful broth. The dumplings are made from a simple mixture of flour, milk, and butter, which are then dropped into the simmering broth to cook. The result is a hearty and delicious meal that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

History of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Old-fashioned chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by many Americans for generations. This Southern dish is a staple in many households and has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the American colonies.

Chicken and dumplings was originally a way to stretch a small amount of chicken into a filling and satisfying meal. The dish was also a way to use up leftover vegetables and scraps of dough. The dumplings were made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt, and were boiled in the chicken broth to create a hearty and flavorful meal.

Over time, the recipe for chicken and dumplings evolved to include more ingredients and variations. Some cooks added vegetables like carrots and celery, while others used different types of flour or seasonings to create a unique flavor profile.

Despite these changes, old-fashioned chicken and dumplings remains a beloved classic that is enjoyed by many families across the country. Whether served on a cold winter’s day or as a comforting meal after a long day at work, this dish has a special place in the hearts of many Americans.

In recent years, old-fashioned chicken and dumplings has seen a resurgence in popularity as more people seek out comforting and nostalgic foods. With its rich history and delicious flavor, it’s no wonder that this classic Southern dish continues to be a favorite among food lovers everywhere.

Ingredients Needed

Making old-fashioned chicken and dumplings requires a few essential ingredients. The following sub-sections outline the ingredients needed for the chicken and dumplings separately:

For the Chicken

The chicken is the star of the show in this dish, and it’s important to use good quality chicken to get the best flavor. Here are the ingredients required for the chicken:

• Chicken breasts or a whole rotisserie chicken
• Chicken broth or stock
• Carrots
• Onion
• Celery
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

If using raw chicken breasts, they should be cubed and cooked in the chicken broth with the vegetables until tender. If using a rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken, the meat can be added to the broth after the vegetables are cooked.

For the Dumplings

The dumplings are what make this dish so comforting and hearty. Here are the ingredients required for the dumplings:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Milk
• Butter or shortening
• Egg (optional)

The dough for the dumplings should be mixed until just combined and then dropped by spoonfuls into the simmering broth. The dumplings should be cooked until they are fluffy and cooked through.

It’s worth noting that some recipes call for flat dumplings made with Bisquick or even biscuits. However, for a more traditional approach, homemade dumplings are the way to go.

Overall, making old-fashioned chicken and dumplings requires basic ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store. With a little bit of time and effort, this classic comfort food can be enjoyed by all.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Chicken

Before starting with the recipe, the chicken needs to be prepared. The chicken can be cooked in a crockpot or a Dutch oven. If using a crockpot, the chicken can be added to the pot with some broth and cooked on high for about 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. If using a Dutch oven, the chicken can be cooked on medium heat until tender.

Once the chicken is cooked, it can be shredded with two forks and set aside. The broth can be saved for later use.

Making the Dumplings

The dumplings can be made from scratch or using a pastry mix. To make the dumplings from scratch, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk in a bowl until a dough is formed. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into small pieces using a pizza cutter.

To make the dumplings using a pastry mix, follow the instructions on the package. Once the dough is formed, roll it out on a floured surface and cut it into small pieces using a pizza cutter.

Combining the Two

To combine the chicken and dumplings, add the shredded chicken to the pot with the saved broth. Add some chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the pot and simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Once the vegetables are tender, add the dumplings to the pot and cover it with a lid. Let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender and cooked through.

To thicken the stew, whisk together some flour and water in a small bowl until smooth. Add the mixture to the pot and stir until the stew thickens.

Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish makes a hearty and satisfying main course.

Serving Suggestions

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this classic recipe is sure to please. Here are a few serving suggestions to make the most of your chicken and dumplings recipe.

• Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the rich and savory flavors of chicken and dumplings. The fresh crunch of the salad is a nice contrast to the soft and tender dumplings.
• Pair with a crusty bread: Sop up all the delicious broth with a slice of crusty bread. The bread will also help to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Serve in individual bowls: Chicken and dumplings is a comfort food classic that is meant to be enjoyed in a cozy and relaxed setting. Serving the dish in individual bowls is a great way to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top of the chicken and dumplings not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh burst of flavor.
• Experiment with different recipes: While the classic chicken and dumplings recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations. Try adding vegetables like carrots or celery, or swapping out the chicken for turkey or beef.

Overall, serving chicken and dumplings is a great way to bring comfort and warmth to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit.

Storing and Reheating

Once the Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings are cooked, they can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Here are some tips for storing and reheating this classic dish:

Storing Leftovers

If there are any leftovers, allow them to cool down to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. The chicken and dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the chicken and dumplings, make sure to do so before adding the cream. The cream can separate when frozen and reheated, which can affect the texture and flavor of the dish.

To freeze, allow the chicken and dumplings to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag. Label the container with the date and contents and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken and dumplings, there are a few options:

• Microwave: Transfer the desired amount of chicken and dumplings to a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Transfer the desired amount of chicken and dumplings to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Transfer the desired amount of chicken and dumplings to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

When reheating, make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the chicken and dumplings are too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.

Overall, Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is a great dish to have on hand for leftovers or meal prep. By following these tips, you can store and reheat this classic dish with ease.

Common Questions and Answers

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. Here are some common questions and answers about this delicious dish:

How long does it take to make old fashioned chicken and dumplings?

The total time to make old fashioned chicken and dumplings varies depending on the recipe and cooking method. Generally, it takes about 1-2 hours to prepare and cook the dish.

Can you add vegetables to old fashioned chicken and dumplings?

Yes, vegetables can be added to old fashioned chicken and dumplings to make it more nutritious and flavorful. Carrots, celery, onions, and peas are common vegetables that can be added to the dish.

How many servings does old fashioned chicken and dumplings make?

The number of servings of old fashioned chicken and dumplings depends on the recipe and serving size. Generally, a recipe makes 4-6 servings.

How many calories are in old fashioned chicken and dumplings?

The number of calories in old fashioned chicken and dumplings varies depending on the recipe and serving size. On average, a serving of chicken and dumplings contains about 300-400 calories.

Can you freeze old fashioned chicken and dumplings?

Yes, old fashioned chicken and dumplings can be frozen for later use. To freeze the dish, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How can you estimate the amount of ingredients needed to make old fashioned chicken and dumplings?

To estimate the amount of ingredients needed to make old fashioned chicken and dumplings, consider the number of servings and the recipe. Generally, a recipe requires 1-2 pounds of chicken, 2-3 cups of flour, and 4-6 cups of chicken broth. Adjust the amounts of ingredients as needed based on the recipe and serving size.

Conclusion

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

The recipe consists of juicy chicken and tender dumplings in a homemade broth that is both savory and satisfying. The ingredients used are simple and can be easily found in most grocery stores.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be customized to suit individual tastes. For example, some people prefer to add vegetables like carrots and celery to the broth, while others like to keep it simple with just chicken and dumplings.

Overall, old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to make, delicious, and comforting, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Give it a try and see for yourself why this classic recipe has stood the test of time.