This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, flavorful broth combined with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings creates the ultimate cozy meal. Perfect for family gatherings, this dish brings people together around the table with its homey and heartwarming flavors. The dumplings are soft and light, adding a wonderful contrast to the savory soup. Whether served on a cold winter evening or as a special family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone. It’s a timeless classic that never goes out of style, bringing comfort and joy in every bite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
- 10 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large stock pot, add chicken, chicken broth, diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the milk and egg, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Let the dumplings cook for 15-20 minutes until they are puffed and cooked through.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Comforting Tradition of Chicken and Dumplings
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved comfort food that has stood the test of time. Rooted in traditional home cooking, this dish is often associated with family gatherings, cozy winter nights, and nourishing meals that bring warmth to the heart. With a rich, flavorful broth, tender pieces of chicken, and soft, pillowy dumplings, this dish brings the comforting flavors of home right to the dinner table.
While the exact origin of chicken and dumplings varies by region, the concept of simmering chicken in a flavorful broth with hearty dumplings is one that spans generations. In many cultures, the humble ingredients used to make this dish—chicken, vegetables, and simple pantry items—were transformed into something extraordinary with minimal effort, making it both practical and delicious. Whether served on a chilly evening or for a Sunday family dinner, chicken and dumplings remains a universal favorite across generations.
Why This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Is the Best
1. Nourishing and Hearty
This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is more than just a comforting meal; it’s a wholesome, nourishing dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The recipe uses a whole chicken, which means it’s packed with protein and essential vitamins, making it a filling and satisfying meal. The vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—add fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, contributing to a well-rounded and healthy dish.
The dumplings, made with flour, baking powder, and a touch of seasoning, provide a soft and fluffy texture that complements the savory broth perfectly. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that can help keep you full and energized for hours.
2. Easy to Make
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to create this hearty, delicious dish. The ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores, and the cooking process is straightforward. The chicken simmers in the broth until it is perfectly tender, and the dumplings are quickly prepared and added to the simmering soup for a brief cooking time.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe ensures that you’ll end up with a comforting and satisfying meal every time. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family get-togethers, or even as a meal prep option for the week.
3. Customizable to Taste
This chicken and dumplings recipe is highly versatile, meaning you can easily adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. You can make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the broth. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream to the broth to create a creamy base. For a more robust flavor, fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage can be added.
The dumplings can also be customized—if you want a more savory dumpling, add a little grated cheese or herbs to the dough. You can also experiment with adding vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms to the broth for extra color and flavor. Additionally, for those who prefer a gluten-free option, there are plenty of flour substitutes that can work in place of regular all-purpose flour for the dumplings.
4. A One-Pot Wonder
This recipe is a one-pot meal, which makes clean-up a breeze. The chicken, vegetables, and dumplings all cook together in one large pot, minimizing mess and effort. Not only does this save time, but it also ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich, savory broth that is absolutely packed with taste. A one-pot meal is especially convenient for busy families or those looking to streamline their cooking process without sacrificing flavor.
5. Budget-Friendly
This recipe is incredibly cost-effective, using a whole chicken as the base, which is often less expensive than purchasing pre-cut chicken pieces. The vegetables used in the dish are also economical and can often be found at affordable prices in any grocery store. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the richness of the flavors, makes this a budget-friendly meal that can easily feed a large family.
Many ingredients in the recipe are pantry staples—things you likely already have in your kitchen—making it an ideal option when you need a hearty meal without having to run to the store. Plus, any leftover chicken and broth can be repurposed into other meals, ensuring that no food goes to waste.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings are not only tasty but can also offer several health benefits, especially when prepared with wholesome ingredients.
High in Protein
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein also supports immune function and plays a role in hormone production. By using a whole chicken, you ensure that the dish is packed with quality protein that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The vegetables in this dish—carrots, celery, and onions—are all nutrient-dense. Carrots, for example, are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and supports eye health. Celery and onions provide fiber, antioxidants, and various vitamins, including vitamin C and K, which support overall health and wellness.
Bone-Health Benefits
Using a whole chicken, with bones and skin, contributes to the production of a flavorful broth that is rich in collagen and gelatin. These compounds are beneficial for joint and skin health, and consuming them regularly can help support strong bones and promote elasticity in the skin.
Comforting for the Soul
Beyond its physical benefits, chicken and dumplings is known for its emotional and psychological comfort. The warmth of a bowl of chicken soup can evoke feelings of nostalgia, security, and contentment. There’s a reason this dish has been passed down through generations—it’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting ritual that brings people together and nourishes both body and soul.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken and dumplings are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for your family on a cold winter night or bringing a large pot of soup to a potluck, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for any occasion.
For special gatherings, you can even serve it alongside a fresh, crisp salad or some buttery cornbread for a complete meal. The richness of the soup and the lightness of the dumplings pair perfectly with other sides, ensuring a well-rounded, satisfying meal for everyone.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. It offers a perfect blend of nutrition, taste, and nostalgia, making it a favorite for families everywhere. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a large group, this recipe is simple, affordable, and guaranteed to provide a cozy, filling meal. With its rich flavors and heartwarming qualities, chicken and dumplings will always be a staple in kitchens across the country. If you’re looking for a meal that combines tradition with convenience and nourishing ingredients, look no further than this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe. It’s everything you need to warm your heart, fill your stomach, and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
