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Southern Chicken And Dumpling Recipe

Southern Chicken And Dumpling Recipe - Comfort Food Meals

When it comes to Southern chicken and dumplings, most folks envision a warm bowl kissed by nostalgia and comfort. But let’s not forget the accompaniments that make this meal an experience rather than just dinner.
Consider sweet cornbread on the side. Its golden, slightly sweet texture pairs well with the savory chicken and creamy broth. You can drizzle it with honey for an extra treat.
Another great option is a simple garden salad. Crisp, fresh vegetables like romaine, cucumbers, and a zingy vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
Lastly, collard greens cooked in a bit of ham hock or smoked turkey can round out your meal beautifully. The earthiness of collards brings a delightful balance to the flavors on your plate.
Now, let’s dive into the magic of Southern chicken and dumplings!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 491
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Stew:
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 cups rich chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
For the Dumplings:
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/3 cup cold shortening
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Stew
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant. This takes about 3-5 minutes.
    Next, throw in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides; this should take about 7-10 minutes.
Step 2: Create the Broth
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Add the milk, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
    As it cooks, whisk together the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. This will help thicken your stew. After 20 minutes, stir in the cornstarch mixture, letting it simmer for an additional five minutes until the broth thickens slightly.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
  1. While your stew is simmering, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Cut in the cold shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk and parsley, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if the dough is a bit lumpy.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
  1. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let them steam for about 15-20 minutes. It's crucial you avoid lifting the lid during this time—this ensures the dumplings puff up nicely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot. Garnish with some extra parsley if you like, and watch loved ones devour every spoonful!

Notes

  • Use Quality Broth: If possible, make your own chicken broth. This will elevate the entire recipe.
  • Experiment with Spice: Feel free to use herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
  • Check Dumplings: Make sure you don’t overcook the dumplings. They should be light and fluffy.
  • Add Vegetables: Carrots or peas can be a great addition. Add them halfway through cooking the chicken to ensure they remain tender yet firm.
  • Consider Gluten-Free Options: If gluten is a concern, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.