Memory in a Bowl: Grandmother’s Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Growing up in the heart of a bustling Southern kitchen, chicken and dumplings were more than just a meal; they were a comforting embrace at the end of a long day. I can still hear the rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the fragrant simmer of chicken broth, and my grandmother’s laughter floating through the air as she guided us through her time-honored recipe. Each winter, as the snow blanketed our small town, this dish became a cherished tradition—a pot bubbling away on the stove, inviting everyone home.
The beauty of this chicken and dumplings recipe lies not only in its warm, hearty flavors but also in its simplicity. It’s the perfect dish for cozy family gatherings, showcasing the essence of American comfort food. Each spoonful brings a taste of nostalgia, reminding us of family connections and seasonal love. So grab your apron and prepare to dive into a dish that promises to fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Creamy, rich broth combined with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.
- Customizable: Adapt it to your taste with veggies or herbs.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that kids (and adults!) will love.
- Perfect for Any Season: Hearty enough for winter, yet refreshing with spring vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great!)
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
Make the Dumplings
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and milk. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix, or the dumplings will be tough.
Combine and Cook
- Once the veggies are tender, stir in the shredded chicken and, if you like, thyme.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter over the soup, then cover the pot. Avoid lifting the lid!
- Cook for 15 minutes, allowing the dumplings to steam and rise above the broth, turning golden on top.
Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle into bowls and savor the warmth and comfort of this classic dish.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Add peas, green beans, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten the dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Richness: For a creamier broth, stir in a bit of heavy cream before serving.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Chicken and dumplings can be frozen for up to 3 months, but the dumplings may lose their texture upon reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed for moisture.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
- Servings: 6
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works great with leftover turkey, especially after holidays.
2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or make a simple homemade broth using water and seasoning.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and remember to reheat gently.
4. Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
For the best texture, it’s best to prepare dumplings fresh and add them to the broth right before serving.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Serve this hearty chicken and dumplings with a crisp green salad or warm cornbread on the side. Pair with a light, refreshing iced tea or a chilled glass of lemonade for a perfect meal.
Final Thoughts
This chicken and dumplings recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings together family, flavors, and memories. I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Please share your thoughts, adaptations, or family stories in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Print
Grandmother’s Classic Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting Southern classic that brings family together with its rich flavors and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and milk. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix.
- Once the veggies are tender, stir in the shredded chicken and thyme, if using.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter over the soup, then cover the pot.
- Cook for 15 minutes, allowing the dumplings to steam and rise above the broth.
- Ladle into bowls and savor the warmth of this classic dish.
Notes
You can add veggies like peas or green beans for added nutrition. For a creamy broth, stir in heavy cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg