Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Introduction to Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings truly embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. With its tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich, savory broth, this dish has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, offering both nourishment and a deep sense of nostalgia. Whether served at family gatherings or as a cozy weeknight dinner, chicken and dumplings bring more than just food to the table—they offer a piece of culinary history.

The Origin and History of Chicken and Dumplings

The roots of chicken and dumplings trace back to the early days of American cooking when resourceful homemakers used simple ingredients to create hearty meals. This dish gained particular popularity in the South, where it often stretched limited ingredients into a filling meal. Traditional cooking methods, such as making homemade chicken broth and dumplings from scratch, have always been at the heart of this recipe, showcasing the skills passed down through generations.

Over time, each region added its own twist, leading to variations of chicken and dumplings. In some areas, cooks roll the dumplings thin and flat, while in others, they make them fluffy and drop-style. Despite these differences, the essence of the dish remains the same—a comforting, homestyle meal that brings people together. For more on the cultural significance of Southern cuisine, you can explore the history of Southern cuisine to understand how dishes like chicken and dumplings became culinary staples.

Ingredients and Preparation

Essential Ingredients

To make old fashioned chicken and dumplings, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

Chicken: Preferably bone-in, skin-on for a richer flavor.
Dumplings: Made from flour, baking powder, salt, and milk.
Broth: Ideally homemade chicken broth for the best taste.
Vegetables: Optional, but carrots, celery, and onions are common additions.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Therefore, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful meal.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by selecting a high-quality chicken. Whole chickens or bone-in chicken parts (like thighs and breasts) work best for this recipe. The bones and skin add depth to the broth, making it richer and more flavorful.

Boil the Chicken: First, place the chicken in a large pot, cover it with water, and bring it to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Simmer: Next, reduce the heat to low, add aromatics like onions, garlic, and bay leaves, and let it simmer for about an hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Remove the Chicken: Then, take the chicken out of the pot, let it cool slightly, and shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin.

Making the Dumplings

The dumplings are the heart of this dish, and there are a few different ways to make them:

Drop Dumplings: These are soft, fluffy balls of dough that you drop directly into the simmering broth.
Rolled Dumplings: These are thinner and chewier, often rolled out and cut into strips before being added to the broth.

Here’s a simple recipe for drop dumplings:

Mix the Dough: First, combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Stir in milk just until a soft dough forms.
Form the Dumplings: Use a spoon to drop the dough into the simmering broth. Make sure the dumplings are spaced apart, as they will expand as they cook.
Cook: Finally, cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.

However, avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough dumplings. For rolled dumplings, simply roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut it into strips before adding them to the broth.

Cooking the Dish

With the chicken prepared and the dumplings ready, it’s time to bring everything together:

Add the Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the pot of broth.
Simmer: Bring the broth back to a gentle simmer.
Add the Dumplings: Carefully drop or add the dumplings into the broth.
Cook: Cover and cook until the dumplings are fully cooked and have absorbed some of the broth’s flavors.

Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste. The result should be a hearty, comforting dish with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings swimming in a flavorful broth.

Serving and Enjoying Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Suggestions

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings serve as a complete meal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a few classic sides:

Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed with a bit of garlic and butter.
Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the extra broth.
Mashed Potatoes: For an extra dose of comfort.

For beverages, consider serving this dish with iced tea, lemonade, or even a light white wine that complements the richness of the broth.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Chicken and dumplings taste just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: You can freeze chicken and dumplings, but note that the texture of the dumplings may change slightly upon thawing.

FAQs and Additional Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best for chicken and dumplings?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken provides the best flavor. Whole chickens, thighs, or breasts all make excellent choices.

Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broth in advance and refrigerate them. Make the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I prevent the dumplings from being too tough or soggy?
Avoid overmixing the dough and ensure the broth is simmering gently, not boiling, when adding the dumplings.

What are the best ways to thicken the broth?
You can thicken the broth by simmering it down or adding a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.

Additional Tips and Variations

Slow Cooker Version: You can make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker by cooking the chicken and broth on low for 6-8 hours, then adding the dumplings in the last hour.
Gluten-Free Dumplings: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dumplings, adjusting the liquid as needed.
Extra Flavor: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the broth for an added depth of flavor, or include vegetables like carrots and celery.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings represent more than just a recipe—they’re a tradition. Whether you’re cooking it for the first time or the hundredth, there’s something deeply satisfying about preparing a meal that has brought comfort to countless people over the years. The process of making chicken and dumplings from scratch not only hones your cooking skills but also connects you to a long history of home-cooked meals.

Check How to Keep Dumplings from Disintegrating in Chicken and Dumplings.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking the time to prepare and enjoy a dish like chicken and dumplings reminds us of the simple pleasures in life—good food, good company, and the warmth of a homemade meal. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and share this comforting dish with the people you love.