When I think of comfort food, chicken and dumplings immediately come to mind. This dish always takes me back to family gatherings where the aroma of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings wafted through the house.
If you’re looking for a warm bowl of goodness that’s both filling and nostalgic, let’s dive into the world of Southern Living chicken and dumplings. Trust me, you’ll want to put on your apron and join me on this culinary journey.
What Is Southern Living Chicken and Dumplings?
Let’s start with the basics. Southern Living chicken and dumplings embody a gentle blend of flavors and textures. It features juicy, seasoned chicken simmered in a rich broth filled with hearty vegetables. The dumplings—soft and pillowy—float atop the broth, soaking in all that savory goodness. Simply put, this dish brings together the essence of home-cooked meals that many can relate to.
Growing up, I remember my grandmother making her chicken and dumplings from scratch. She’d tell tales of how these dumplings represent warmth, love, and the skill it takes to create a cozy meal. You might say chicken and dumplings are the heart of Southern cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Living Chicken and Dumplings
Let me tell you why you’ll fall for this dish. First, it captures that unforgettable homey feeling. It’s a one-pot meal that warms the soul. Each bite reminds you of gathering around the dinner table.
You might appreciate the simplicity the recipe offers. Many ingredients are pantry staples. This means less fuss with grocery shopping and more time creating something scrumptious. Another plus? It’s very forgiving in terms of ingredients and allows for personal twists.
Not to forget, the flavor. The combination of savory chicken, the gentle hint of thyme, and the buttery dumplings create a flavor profile that is hard to resist. You might find yourself going in for seconds (or thirds). Believe me, it’s that good!
The Ingredients
Alright, before we get into the fun part—cooking—let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need:
- 2 bone-in chicken breasts (about 1 lb each)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small yellow onion, halved
- 2 medium celery stalks, divided (one stalk optional)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and divided (one carrot optional)
- 2 (5-inch) sprigs thyme or flat-leaf parsley, plus chopped leaves for garnish
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for garnish
- 3 tablespoons cubed cold unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole buttermilk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for a bright finishing touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor depth)
I recommend gathering everything ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Ready? Let’s do this!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large pot. Pour in the chicken broth until the chicken is fully submerged. Feel that comforting warmth as you turn on the heat. Add the halved onion, one celery stalk, one carrot, and the thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and place it on a plate. Let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t skip this step! Shredding makes the chicken easier to eat and helps it absorb the flavors of the broth.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, pour in the buttermilk and mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; we want those fluffy dumplings, not dense bricks.
Step 4: Add Veggies
While the chicken is cooling, chop the remaining celery and carrot. Add these chopped vegetables to the pot with the broth. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften. This is where the flavors begin to develop.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Dumplings to the Pot
After adding the chicken back to the pot, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the broth. They will spread out and float atop the liquid, creating a lovely fluffy layer. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes. Don’t lift the lid; the steam is crucial here!
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
After the dumplings have cooked, check for seasoning. You might want to sprinkle in some lemon juice for a zesty kick, or garlic powder for that depth of flavor. Stir gently, avoiding the dumplings, and then let it sit for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Serve
It’s showtime! Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Watch as everyone at the table digs in, smiles spreading across their faces. You’ve just made a masterpiece!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some golden nuggets to enhance your experience:
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor starts with the broth. A quality low-sodium chicken broth makes a huge difference.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumplings: Keep it gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings. Less is more.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This dish keeps well and can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you don’t have thyme, try rosemary or Italian seasoning. Each herb adds its own unique flair.
- Try Different Chicken Cuts: Feel free to substitute with thighs or even a rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
Nutrition Information
Curious about the nutritional content? Here’s a rough breakdown per serving, assuming a total of 6 servings:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind, this is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients used.
Can I Store Southern Living Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember that the dumplings may absorb more broth as they sit.
Reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of broth if necessary to loosen everything up.
What Can I Serve with Southern Living Chicken and Dumplings?
There are plenty of sides to complement your chicken and dumplings. Here are a few ideas:
- Cornbread: The perfect sidekick, giving a sweet contrast to the savory dish.
- Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Steamed Vegetables: You can never go wrong with healthy greens.
- Pickles or Chow Chow: The tangy flavor can balance the creaminess.
- Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling indulgent, why not go all out?
Variations
There’s a lot of room to experiment here. Here are five variations worth considering:
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Dumplings: Add sautéed mushrooms to the broth. It arms the dish with an earthy richness.
- Cajun Chicken and Dumplings: Toss in some Cajun spice for a bit of kick. Think about blending that Southern flavor with zest!
- Vegetable Dumplings: Swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini. A great vegetarian option!
- Buffalo Chicken Dumplings: Mix in some hot sauce with the chicken for a spicy twist. Perfect for those who crave heat!
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Dumplings: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest can elevate this dish to a delightful freshness.
Conclusion
Southern Living chicken and dumplings encapsulate a world of flavor. This dish warms the soul and fills the belly, all while drawing us closer together. It’s a tradition rooted in family and comfort. Whether you’re gathering around with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment, this recipe will provide that authentic taste of home.
There’s something magical about food that reminds us where we come from. This particular dish brings the South into your kitchen with just a few ingredients. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and indulge in this hearty meal. You’ve got this! And don’t forget, the leftovers make a fantastic meal too—if there are any!
Now, who’s ready to chow down on chicken and dumplings tonight?
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Southern Living Chicken And Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Description
When I think of comfort food, chicken and dumplings immediately come to mind. This dish always takes me back to family gatherings where the aroma of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings wafted through the house.
If you’re looking for a warm bowl of goodness that’s both filling and nostalgic, let’s dive into the world of Southern Living chicken and dumplings. Trust me, you’ll want to put on your apron and join me on this culinary journey.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
-
Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large pot. Pour in the chicken broth until the chicken is fully submerged. Feel that comforting warmth as you turn on the heat. Add the halved onion, one celery stalk, one carrot, and the thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
-
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and place it on a plate. Let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t skip this step! Shredding makes the chicken easier to eat and helps it absorb the flavors of the broth.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings
-
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, pour in the buttermilk and mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; we want those fluffy dumplings, not dense bricks.
Step 4: Add Veggies
-
While the chicken is cooling, chop the remaining celery and carrot. Add these chopped vegetables to the pot with the broth. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften. This is where the flavors begin to develop.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Dumplings to the Pot
-
After adding the chicken back to the pot, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the broth. They will spread out and float atop the liquid, creating a lovely fluffy layer. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes. Don’t lift the lid; the steam is crucial here!
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
-
After the dumplings have cooked, check for seasoning. You might want to sprinkle in some lemon juice for a zesty kick, or garlic powder for that depth of flavor. Stir gently, avoiding the dumplings, and then let it sit for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Serve
-
It’s showtime! Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Watch as everyone at the table digs in, smiles spreading across their faces. You’ve just made a masterpiece!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor starts with the broth. A quality low-sodium chicken broth makes a huge difference.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumplings: Keep it gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings. Less is more.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This dish keeps well and can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you don’t have thyme, try rosemary or Italian seasoning. Each herb adds its own unique flair.
- Try Different Chicken Cuts: Feel free to substitute with thighs or even a rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
