Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings: 7 Comforting Steps

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Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings is a comforting dish made with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. This classic recipe brings back memories of cozy family dinners and warm kitchens filled with aromas that make you feel right at home. When you take that first bite, you’re not just savoring a meal; you’re indulging in a piece of nostalgia, a taste of love, and the essence of comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings

This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It’s a true comfort food chicken dumplings recipe that warms you from the inside out.
Perfect for family gatherings, bringing everyone to the table.
Using homemade chicken dumplings makes it special.
It’s an easy chicken dumplings from scratch recipe that anyone can master.
It’s a hearty meal, filled with chicken and vegetables.
Ideal for cold weather, keeping you cozy and satisfied.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings

Gather these items:

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
8 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup milk
2 large eggs
¼ cup butter, melted
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, place the whole chicken and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 2: Remove the chicken from the pot, and let it cool. In the same broth, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the vegetables and broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes.
Step 7: After 15 minutes, check the dumplings to ensure they are cooked through. They should be fluffy and firm.
Step 8: Adjust seasoning in the broth with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 9: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings: 7 Comforting Steps - Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for family dinners.
You can use leftover chicken for a quicker preparation.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Consider a side of green beans or peas for added nutrition.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings

What are chicken dumplings?

Chicken dumplings are a comforting dish made from tender chicken and fluffy dumplings cooked in a savory broth. They often include vegetables for added flavor.

Why are chicken dumplings a comfort food?

Chicken dumplings are considered comfort food because they provide warmth, heartiness, and nostalgic flavors that remind many of home and family gatherings.

Can I make Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broth in advance. However, it’s best to make the dumplings fresh just before serving to keep them fluffy.

Variations of Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations:

Add chicken dumplings with vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor.
Try old-fashioned southern dumplings by using buttermilk in the dough.
For a creamy version, stir in cream or milk for a chicken and dumplings with creamy sauce.