Classic Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Southern Classic

There’s something inherently comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken and dumplings. This beloved Southern staple has graced family dinner tables for generations, combining tender shredded chicken with pillowy dumplings in a rich, warming broth. Originally created as a resourceful way to stretch a chicken dinner during the Great Depression, this dish has evolved into a cherished comfort food classic that continues to warm hearts and homes across America.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

  • 2 cups (250g) shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (140g) mixed frozen vegetables
  • 1 medium onion, diced (optional enhancement)
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped (optional enhancement)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional enhancement)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional enhancement)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Soup Base (15 minutes)

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat
  2. Add shredded rotisserie chicken and frozen vegetables
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste
  4. If using optional aromatics (onion, celery, garlic), sauté them first until softened

Make the Dumplings (10 minutes)

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt
  2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients
  3. Pour in milk and melted butter
  4. Stir gently until just combined – do not overmix
  5. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes

Cooking the Dumplings (15 minutes)

  1. Ensure broth is at a gentle simmer (not boiling)
  2. Using a tablespoon, drop dumpling dough into the simmering broth
  3. Space dumplings evenly to prevent sticking
  4. Cover pot with a tight-fitting lid
  5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes without lifting the lid
  6. Check that dumplings are cooked through (they should be light and fluffy)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 385
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Serving size: 1.5 cups
  • Servings per recipe: 4

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Pro Tips and Tricks

  1. Don’t peek while dumplings cook – the steam is crucial for proper cooking
  2. Use hot rotisserie chicken to maintain the soup’s temperature
  3. For fluffier dumplings, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before dropping into soup
  4. Keep the liquid at a gentle simmer – boiling will make tough dumplings
  5. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the dumpling mixture
  6. Use whole milk for richer, more tender dumplings

Variations and Substitutions

Soup Base Variations

  • Use turkey instead of chicken
  • Add mushrooms for earthiness
  • Include fresh herbs like thyme, sage, or rosemary
  • Add white wine for depth of flavor

Dumpling Variations

  • Add herbs to the dumpling mixture
  • Use part whole wheat flour for more nutrition
  • Make drop biscuit-style dumplings
  • Add grated Parmesan cheese to the dough

Dietary Modifications

  • Gluten-free: Use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
  • Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and butter
  • Lower-sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt

Common FAQs

Why are my dumplings heavy or dense?

Overmixing the dumpling dough or lifting the lid while cooking can result in dense dumplings. Mix just until combined and resist the urge to peek during cooking.

Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook it first. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook in the pot before adding broth and vegetables.

Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

While possible, the texture of the dumplings may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 2 months.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

They should be light and fluffy, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months
  • Let cool completely before storing

Reheating Guidelines

  • Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat
  • Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between
  • Add extra broth if needed while reheating

Make-Ahead Options

  1. Prepare soup base up to 2 days ahead
  2. Mix dry dumpling ingredients ahead of time
  3. Shred chicken and chop vegetables in advance
  4. Store components separately until ready to cook

This classic comfort food is perfect for cold weather, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a heartwarming meal. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings makes this a complete one-pot meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.