Comfort Food Classic: Ultimate Guide to Old Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
A good, filling bowl of chicken and dumplings is definitely consoling. Offering not only food but also a feeling of nostalgia and warmth, this traditional comfort dish has been a mainstay in homes throughout many generations. Making a homemade meal like Old Fashioned Chicken & Dumplings can be a wonderful opportunity to calm down, connect with loved ones, and savor a meal that’s both wonderful and satisfying in the hectic world of today.
We will walk you through all you need to know in this thorough guide to produce the ideal batch of homemade chicken and dumplings. From choosing the correct components to perfecting the cooking methods, you will be ready to provide a meal likely to become a family favorite. We also have some insider knowledge and tricks to improve your cooking and simplify the process even more.
Why Should I Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?
The solace of homemade cuisine
Making dinner from scratch has an irresistible appeal. Made from scratch, homemade chicken and dumplings have a certain appeal and provide a complete and fulfilling meal that store-bought substitutes just cannot equal. Together, the rich, savory broth, delicate chicken, and fluffy dumplings create a symphony of tastes and textures that soothes the soul as well as the body.
Health advantages
Making your own chicken and dumplings lets you totally control the components. This means you can choose organic, high-quality chicken, cut sodium intake, and cut out additives sometimes included in packaged goods. Made-from-scratch food also lets one customize to fit dietary constraints and personal tastes.
Reasonably Affordable
Cooking at home generally costs less than dining out or purchasing prepared food. Choosing the correct foods and using a tried-and-true recipe will help you to make a great dinner for your family without going broke.
Custom from Families
Family customs and recollections sometimes center chicken and dumplings with particular significance. Making this meal can be a great opportunity to make fresh memories and transmit treasured recipes to next generations.
Ingredients You’ll Want
For the Chicken & Broth:
• 2-4 chicken breasts (bone-in, with skin) or 1 whole 3 lb chicken: Bone-in chicken adds depth to the broth, while the skin provides extra flavor.
• 1 stick butter: Enhances the richness of the broth.
• 2 packages chicken bouillon or 2 spoonfuls: For an intensified chicken flavor; consider using low-sodium options for a healthier broth.
For the dumplings:
• 1 stick butter, melted: Adds moisture and richness to the dumplings.
• 3 large eggs: acts as a binding agent for the dumpling dough.
• 1/2 cup 2% milk: provides the necessary moisture and tenderness.
• 5 cups all-purpose flour, divided: the base for the dumpling dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
• 2 drops yellow food coloring (or pinch of turmeric): Gives the dumplings a beautiful golden hue; turmeric can also add a slight earthy flavor.
Optional Additions:
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions can be added to the broth for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the taste profile.
• Seasonings: Depending on your preference, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or other favorite spices.
Instructions
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Preparing the Chicken & Broth
1. Select Your Chicken: Choose between using bone-in chicken breasts with skin or a whole 3 lb chicken. Bone-in pieces generally cook faster, while a whole chicken may provide a richer broth.
2. Prepare the Dutch Oven: Place your chosen chicken into a large Dutch oven. The Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe as it evenly distributes heat and retains moisture, ensuring tender chicken and flavorful broth.
3. Add liquid and flavorings:
- Water: Cover the chicken with enough water to submerge it completely.
- Butter: Add 1 stick of butter to the pot. This not only adds richness but also helps in creating a silky broth.
- Chicken Bouillon: Add 2 packages of chicken bouillon or 2 spoonfuls. For a healthier option, use low-sodium bouillon or even make your own broth from scratch.
4. Cooking:
- Stovetop Method: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the chicken is tender.
- Chicken Breasts: Approximately 45 minutes.
- Whole Chicken: Approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes.
5. Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the Chicken: Carefully take the chicken out of the broth and place it on a cutting board to cool.
- Shred the Meat: Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin if desired.
- Set Aside: Keep the shredded chicken set aside for later use in the dish.
6. Reserve the Broth: The broth will serve as the base for your chicken and dumplings, so ensure you retain all the flavorful liquid.
Making the Perfect Dumplings
1. Prepare the mixing bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- Melted butter: 1 stick, providing richness.
- Eggs: 3 large eggs beaten to act as a binding agent.
- Milk: 1/2 cup of 2% milk, which adds moisture and tenderness to the dumplings.
2. Add dry ingredients:
- Salt: 1 teaspoon.
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon.
- Flour: Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour while stirring to form a sticky dough.
3. Add Color:
- Yellow Food Coloring: Add 2 drops to achieve a golden color.
- Alternative: Use a pinch of turmeric for a natural color and a slight earthy flavor.
Preparing the Dough
1. Flour the Surface: Lightly dust your clean work surface with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dough:
- Spoon Dough: Take about 1 cup of the prepared dough and place it onto the floured surface.
- Mix in Remaining Flour: Gradually incorporate the remaining 2 cups of flour into the dough until it is no longer sticky. This process ensures the dumplings hold their shape during cooking.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough out thinly, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Thinner dumplings will cook more evenly and absorb the flavors of the broth better.
4. Cut into Strips: Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. This size is ideal for spooning into the simmering broth.
Cooking the Dumplings
1. Boil the Broth: Bring the reserved chicken broth back to a boil over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s bubbling vigorously to properly cook the dumplings.
2. Add dumplings:
- Drop Dumplings: Carefully place the dumpling strips into the boiling broth.
- Cook Until Tender: Let the dumplings simmer until they float to the top and are tender, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the dumplings tough.
3. Combine Chicken and Broth: After cooking the dumplings, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Allow everything to heat through for a few minutes.
4. Serve Hot: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of both chicken and dumplings. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added touch of freshness.
Enjoy a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family gatherings!
