Appetizer & Dessert

Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Name: Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 5 chicken drumsticks; 1 whole chicken; 3 quarts water; 3 celery 3 stalks, chopped into 2-inch segments; 3 carrots, 3 chopped into 2-inch segments; 1 large onion, sliced into thick rings; 1 whole bulb of garlic, top sliced off; 5 sprigs of fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; 10 whole black peppercorns; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 3 tablespoons vegetable shortening; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream

Lauren Miller January 1, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Ah, the comfort food classic: chicken and dumplings. When you add “magnolia” to the mix, this dish transcends to a whole new realm of warmth and flavor. Before diving into the recipe itself, let’s explore some delightful pairings that can accompany this heartwarming dish.

A light, zesty green salad is a perfect match, as it balances the richness of the chicken and dumplings beautifully; consider fresh greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Lightly steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, provide an excellent textural complement to the creamy goodness of the dish. Cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and is fantastic for soaking up any extra broth, enhancing the overall experience.

For those who enjoy wine, a nice glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the dish wonderfully, while homemade pickles introduce a tanginess that cuts through the richness, making each bite a delightful adventure.

What is Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings?

The name “magnolia” evokes images of Southern charm, elegance, and understated beauty. In this recipe, we’ve infused that spirit into a traditional chicken and dumplings ensemble. It typically features succulent chicken, tender dumplings, and a savory broth infused with garden-fresh herbs and spices. The combination offers a flavor experience that warms you from the inside out.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile is a comforting blend of savory, herbal, and a touch of creamy richness. You start with the hearty flavor of chicken, then layer in fresh thyme and bay leaves that bring an earthy note. The smoked paprika adds depth, while garlic infuses a warm, aromatic quality. The dumplings, light yet substantial, soak up the sumptuous broth, turning every bite into a savory delight.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll love this recipe not just for its taste but for its accessibility. It comes together with simple ingredients, many of which you likely have in your kitchen. It satisfies both the hunger for a warm meal and the longing for home-cooked comfort food. Plus, it’s made from scratch, making it a wonderful way to spend time with family.

Begin your culinary journey, and let’s whip up some magic in the kitchen!

Ingredients

Gather these items before you start. You’ll need:

5 chicken drumsticks
1 whole chicken (remove organs)
3 quarts water (to create the broth)
3 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
3 carrots, sliced into 2-inch segments
1 large onion, sliced into thick rings
1 whole bulb of garlic, top sliced off
5 sprigs of fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
10 whole black peppercorns
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
3 tablespoons vegetable shortening
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream

Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings Copycat Recipe

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s break it down, step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by placing the whole chicken, drumsticks, and 3 quarts of water into a large pot. This will be your flavor base.

Now add the celery, carrots, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, peppercorns, and kosher salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for at least an hour.

This simmering time allows the flavors to develop, creating a rich, aromatic broth.

Step 2: Remove the Chicken

After an hour, use tongs to remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat, discarding the skin and bones. Set the shredded chicken aside.

Step 3: Strain the Broth

Now, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids. You’re left with a clear, flavorful broth that will serve as the base for your dumplings. Return the strained broth to the pot and keep it warm on low heat.

Step 4: Make the Dumpling Dough

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, sea salt, and smoked paprika. Mix it well to distribute the ingredients evenly. In another bowl, cut in the vegetable shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the buttermilk and Dijon mustard until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be light and fluffy.

Step 5: Drop the Dumplings

Increase the heat of your broth to a gentle boil. Using a spoon, drop tablespoons of the dumpling dough into the broth. Let them cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid, as the steam helps the dumplings rise perfectly.

Step 6: Add the Chicken

After the dumplings have cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the broth. Let everything simmer for an additional five minutes.

Now, your kitchen should be filled with the enticing fragrance of chicken and dumplings.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy every savory bite. Intrigued yet?

Tips & Tricks

Here are some handy tips to make the process smoother:

Season the broth generously: Don’t be shy with salt and spices; this is where the flavor starts.
Do not overwork the dumpling dough: Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings. Less is more here!
Use homemade stock if possible: If you have it in your freezer, homemade stock can enhance the taste significantly.
Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking.
Adjust thickness: If the broth is too thick, thin it with a little water or stock until you reach the desired consistency.

magnolia chicken and dumplings recipe nutrition facts

How Can You Store This Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings Recipe?

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, given how good this dish is), you can store them. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When reheating, be mindful that dumplings may absorb some broth, so you might need to add a splash of water or stock.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself missing some ingredients, fear not! Here are a few substitutions you can make:

Whole chicken: Consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just shred the meat and add rather than simmering.
Buttermilk: Mix milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to create a quick buttermilk substitute.
Dumpling fat: If you don’t have vegetable shortening, you can use butter or lard instead, which will give a richer flavor.

Best Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Conclusion

Magnolia chicken and dumplings is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt reminder of family love and nostalgia wrapped in every bite. As you savor each mouthful, let it transport you back to simpler times, where gatherings are filled with love, laughter, and good food.

This dish not only nourishes the body but also nourishes the soul. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family, and create your own masterpiece. This go-to recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen, transforming any gathering into a cozy, joyful experience.

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Magnolia Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Author: Lauren Miller Cuisine: Southern Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 2 hrs Total Time 2 hrs 20 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 169 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

There’s something about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings that feels like a hug on a cold day. Growing up, Sundays were dedicated to family meals, where laughter filled the kitchen as my mom stirred savory pots simmering on the stovetop.

I still remember the alluring smells, the excitement of gathering around a table packed with love and food. Among those cherished recipes, her magnolia chicken and dumplings always stole the show.

The texture of perfectly tender chicken mingling with fluffy dumplings, all wrapped in a rich broth—that’s the magic we seek in our everyday cooking. Join me as I share not just the recipe for this beloved dish but also a story of nostalgia, comfort, and a few kitchen tips gleaned from years of culinary adventures.