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Dolly Parton Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

Dolly Parton Chicken And Dumplings Recipe - Comfort Food Meals

When it comes to comfort food, Dolly Parton’s Chicken and Dumplings is a true winner. The rich, hearty flavors of this dish call for some perfect accompaniments to enhance the experience. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad featuring mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens and the kick from the dressing create a delightful contrast to the creamy, savory chicken and dumplings.
Another excellent choice is a loaf of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. With a basket of warm bread at the table, you can soak up every last drop of the chicken broth. For those sunny days, I love serving this dish alongside roasted vegetables or seasoned green beans. Both options add color to your plate and a touch of crunch that balances the soft, comforting dumplings.
Now, let’s get into why Dolly Parton’s Chicken and Dumplings is one of my favorite recipes. This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories. Whether it's a family gathering, a chilly evening, or simply a craving for something homemade, this meal brings that comforting hug we all need.
In my kitchen, this recipe has become a staple. I remember the first time I made it, following the simple steps, and the aroma filled my home. It was like magic. My family gathered around the table, and I could see their faces light up with every bite. The ingredients are straightforward, but the love you put into preparing it is what makes it special.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 542
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dumplings:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
  • 6 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional, for extra flavor
For the Soup:
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon Chicken Base
  • 1 3/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 bay leaf optional, for added depth

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
  1. First things first, heat that tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I like to add the diced onions right away. They will begin to sweat and soften in a few minutes, releasing those great flavors. Next, toss in the diced celery. Stir and cook for about 4-5 minutes.
    What you’re looking for here is translucence—this is where the flavor magic begins.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Water
  1. Now, it’s time to get the chicken involved. Place the boneless, skinless thighs in the pot and give them a light browning for about 5 minutes. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked; they will finish cooking later.
    Next, pour in your 4 cups of water and add the Better than Bouillon Chicken Base. Stir everything together while allowing that chicken base to dissolve completely.
Step 3: Season the Broth
  1. Once the chicken is submerged, it’s seasoning time! Sprinkle in the kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. If you want to elevate the flavors even further, toss in the bay leaf. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes.
    The key here is to be patient. This allows all the flavors to deepen and mingle beautifully.
Step 4: Create the Dumplings
  1. While the soup is simmering, get your dumplings ready. In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. Cut in the vegetable shortening until you have a crumbly mixture. This part is always fun. I like to use my fingers; it feels more homemade that way!
    Then, add in the milk and thyme. Mix until everything is just combined. Don't overdo it; you want a tender dumpling.
Step 5: Add Dumplings to the Soup
  1. After 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the pot. Shred it into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Now it’s time to bring your dumplings to the party!
    Using a spoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture over the surface of the bubbling broth. Don’t worry about making them perfect; rustic is part of the charm.
Step 6: Cook the Dumplings
  1. Cover the pot again and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. You won’t want to lift the lid. The steam will help them rise and cook through nicely.
Step 7: Final Touches
  1. Once your dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, give everything a gentle stir. Feel free to taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve up hot and garnish with fresh herbs if you've got any.
    The joy of cooking should radiate through, and this recipe does just that.

Notes

  • All-purpose flour: It serves as the foundation for the dumplings, providing structure.
  • Baking soda: Just a pinch creates that lightness we crave in comfort food.
  • Vegetable shortening: It contributes tenderness and flakiness to the dumplings.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: A rich, flavorful oil that adds depth to the soup.
  • Onion and celery: These aromatics form the base of our flavor profile—essential for any great soup.
  • Better than Bouillon Chicken Base: A game-changer in achieving a savory broth.
  • Chicken thighs: They are juicy, flavorful, and stand up well to simmering, providing heartiness.
  • Bay leaf: Just one leaf adds a layer of complexity to the soup—don’t skip it!