Ah, Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings! Just saying it brings a wave of comfort and nostalgia, doesn’t it? This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and the lovely aroma wafting from the kitchen. I can still see my grandmother, with her flour-dusted apron, deftly preparing this hearty meal while sharing stories that made everyone laugh. These moments, filled with love and laughter, are what make this recipe so special to me.
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a bowl of chicken and dumplings: the tender chicken, the rich broth, and those fluffy dumplings that soak up every delicious drop. Whether it’s a cold winter day or just a need for comfort food, this dish never fails to hit the spot. So, grab a pot and let’s dive into making this comforting classic together!
What’s in Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?
Whole chicken: The star of our dish! A 3-4 lb chicken provides juicy meat that’s perfect for shredding. I love to use organic chicken for more flavor, but whatever you can find works just fine.
Chicken broth: This savory base is essential for that deep flavor. I usually stick with low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the saltiness later.
Water: Helps balance the broth for that perfect slurp.
Onion: Chopped, it adds sweetness and depth to our dish.
Carrots: Diced, they add a lovely pop of color and sweetness.
Celery: Diced celery provides crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Frozen peas: These little green gems add freshness and texture; no need to thaw them first!
Garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper: Essential seasonings that deepen the flavor and make everything sing!
All-purpose flour: This is used to thicken the broth and provide that luscious texture.
Dumplings: Made from flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, melted butter, and milk, these fluffy delights are what dreams are made of!
Fresh parsley: A beautiful garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.
Is Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Good for You?
Ah, the age-old question: is comfort food good for you? Well, let’s take a look!
Chicken: This lean protein is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice when it comes to comfort food.
Carrots and peas: Both are loaded with vitamins and fiber, which are great for your health. So there’s a bit of nutrition hidden in this dish!
However, let’s be real, this dish is a treat! The dumplings are comforting but can be high in calories and carbohydrates, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. And if you’re watching your sodium, just be mindful of how much salt you add.
Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
**For the Dumplings**:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves 6*
How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, water, onion, carrots, celery, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and let them cool slightly. Discard the skin and bones, shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces.
4. In the same pot, toss in the frozen peas and bring the mixture back to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of flour with enough water to create a thick paste. Stir this concoction into the simmering broth for a little extra thickness.
6. In another bowl, prepare the dumpling dough. Combine the 2 cups of flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the melted butter and milk until just combined.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture over the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and cooked through.
8. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot and heat everything until warmed through. Adjust seasoning as needed—don’t forget to taste!
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and dig in!
A Few Tips for Making the Most of Your Dish
Let’s make your chicken and dumplings even better!
– **For Extra Flavor**: Try browning your chicken pieces in the pot before boiling—this will give your broth a deeper flavor.
– **Dumpling Variations**: Feel free to toss in some fresh herbs or even cheese into the dumpling batter for extra flavor.
– **Serve in Style**: This dish is fabulous on its own, but I often serve it with a side salad for some freshness.
– **Leftovers**: You can store leftovers in the fridge for a few days. Just be mindful that the dumplings may absorb a lot of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Honestly, I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It holds a special place in my heart, and I hope it brings you the same joy it brings me. Share your creations—I’d love to hear your stories and any twists you put on this classic dish! Happy cooking!
