Southern Chicken & Dumplings

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Southern Chicken & Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken in a rich, flavorful broth with soft, pillowy dumplings. The broth is infused with aromatics like onions, celery, and garlic, creating a savory base that perfectly complements the hearty dumplings. This classic dish is warm, comforting, and satisfying, making it a favorite for family dinners or chilly evenings.

The first time I made Southern Chicken & Dumplings, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients came together to create such a deeply flavorful dish. The homemade dumplings soaked up the rich broth, and the chicken was so tender it practically melted in my mouth. What I love most about this recipe is how nostalgic and versatile it is—you can add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, mix in some veggies like carrots or peas, or even spice it up with a pinch of cayenne. It’s a true Southern classic that warms the soul and brings people together around the table!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Cozy nights in
  • Potlucks and gatherings
  • Celebrating Southern traditions
  • Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Southern Chicken & Dumplings will become a family favorite:

  • Classic Comfort Food: A hearty dish that feels like a warm hug.
  • Rich, Savory Broth: Infused with aromatic herbs and spices.
  • Tender, Juicy Chicken: Simmered to perfection.
  • Fluffy Dumplings: Soft, pillowy, and cooked right in the broth.
  • Easy to Make: Straightforward steps with no complicated techniques.
  • Feeds a Crowd: A budget-friendly recipe that’s great for gatherings.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
  • Nostalgic Appeal: Brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for busy nights.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 32g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs) or 4 bone-in chicken thighs
  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cracked black pepper

Ingredient Highlights

  • Whole Chicken: Adds depth of flavor to the broth.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Enhance the richness of the dish.
  • Baking Powder: Ensures fluffy, tender dumplings.
  • Whole Milk: Provides a creamy texture to the dumplings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Chicken and Broth:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with chicken stock. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred the meat, discarding the skin and bones. Set aside.
  4. Strain the Broth: Strain the broth to remove vegetables and return it to the pot. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Prepare the Dumplings:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
  3. Form Dumplings: Using a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the simmering broth.
  4. Cook Dumplings: Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Add Chicken: Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot with the dumplings.
  2. Simmer: Cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.

Serve:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve hot.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Southern Chicken & Dumplings:

  • With Buttermilk Biscuits: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
  • Topped with Hot Sauce: Add a kick for spice lovers.
  • With Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing.
  • Alongside a Green Salad: Balances the richness of the dish.
  • With Sweet Tea: For an authentic Southern meal.
  • As a Potluck Dish: Bring it to gatherings for a guaranteed hit.
  • With Pickled Vegetables: Adds a tangy contrast.
  • For Sunday Supper: Serve as the main event of a comforting family meal.
  • With Freshly Baked Rolls: Ideal for a cozy dinner.
  • As a Leftover Lunch: Reheat for an easy and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips

  • Use a Whole Chicken: For richer flavor, use a whole chicken instead of just chicken breasts. The bones and skin add depth to the broth.
  • Skim the Broth: As your chicken simmers, skim the surface of the broth regularly to remove impurities, ensuring a clear and clean flavor.
  • Season in Layers: Season the broth in stages, adding salt and pepper as you go. This helps build flavor throughout the dish.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves will elevate the flavor of the broth. Remove them before serving.
  • Make Dumplings Fluffy: Don’t overwork the dumpling dough. Stir just until combined to keep them light and airy.
  • Use Buttermilk in Dumplings: For extra fluffiness and a slight tang, substitute regular milk with buttermilk in the dumplings.
  • Cook Dumplings in Simmering Broth: Make sure the broth is simmering (not boiling) when adding the dumplings. Boiling can cause them to become tough.
  • Add Vegetables for Color and Flavor: Carrots, celery, and onions are classic additions, but consider adding peas or corn for extra sweetness and texture.
  • Thicken the Broth (Optional): If you prefer a thicker broth, create a slurry with flour and water, or add a roux (flour and butter mixture) to the pot.
  • Finish with a Dash of Hot Sauce: For a touch of heat and flavor, add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce just before serving.

Recipe Variations

  • Herbed Dumplings: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the dumpling dough.
  • Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the broth before adding the dumplings.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the broth.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
  • Gluten-Free Dumplings: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
  • Turkey & Dumplings: A great way to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
  • Lemon Herb Broth: Add lemon juice and zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
  • Garlic Butter Dumplings: Replace melted butter with garlic-infused butter for extra flavor.
  • Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or fish for a coastal take on the dish.
  • Cheesy Dumplings: Mix shredded cheese into the dumpling dough for a savory upgrade.

Special Equipment

  • Large Dutch Oven – Ideal for simmering the chicken and broth, and for making the dumplings.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife – For chopping vegetables, herbs, and carving the chicken.
  • Cutting Board – A stable surface for prepping ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise measurements of ingredients like flour, herbs, and liquids.
  • Ladle – Perfect for serving the soup and broth.
  • Slotted Spoon – To remove the chicken from the pot without losing the liquid.
  • Whisk – To help mix the dumpling dough without clumping.
  • Rolling Pin – If rolling out the dumpling dough instead of dropping it into the pot.
  • Soup Ladle – For serving the hearty dish in bowls.
  • Tongs – For handling and shredding the cooked chicken.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use boneless chicken?
    Yes, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth.
  2. How do I know when the dumplings are done?
    They should be fluffy and cooked through, not doughy in the center.
  3. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, the broth and chicken can be prepared a day in advance. Add dumplings before serving.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers?
    Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
  5. What if my broth is too thin?
    Simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken the broth.
  6. Can I use store-bought broth?
    Absolutely! Use high-quality chicken stock for the best flavor.
  7. What if I don’t have baking powder?
    Substitute with a mixture of cream of tartar and baking soda.
  8. How do I prevent dumplings from sticking together?
    Drop them into the broth one at a time, spacing them apart.
  9. Can I use biscuit dough for dumplings?
    Yes, canned biscuit dough can be used as a shortcut.
  10. How can I make it spicier?
    Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the broth.

Conclusion

Southern Chicken & Dumplings is a warm, comforting classic that’s the epitome of Southern soul food. This hearty dish features tender, slow-cooked chicken in a flavorful broth, paired with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the rich, savory goodness. The creamy, well-seasoned base is made with simple ingredients like chicken stock, onions, and a touch of cream, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nostalgic.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly nights, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. You can customize it with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of freshness, and even add a dash of hot sauce for a little Southern-style heat. Serve it with a side of cornbread or collard greens to complete the meal.

I can’t wait to see how your Southern Chicken & Dumplings turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!