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Chef Ava

Homemade Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

A classic Southern comfort food recipe featuring tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for cozy family dinners!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken Broth:
  • 1 whole chicken or chicken parts, such as thighs or breasts
  • 10 cups of water
  • 1 medium onion quartered
  • 2-3 garlic cloves smashed
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 carrots cut into big chunks (optional)
  • 2 celery stalks cut into large chunks (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Dumplings:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup butter melted
  • 3/4 cup of milk or buttermilk for a creamier taste
  • Seasonings:
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken Broth: Simmer chicken, vegetables, and herbs in water for 30-40 minutes. Remove chicken, shred, and strain the broth.
  2. Make the Dumplings: Mix flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and milk to form a thick batter.
  3. Combine and Cook: Add shredded chicken back to the broth, drop dumpling batter into the simmering broth, and cook for 20-30 minutes until fluffy.

Notes

  • For a richer broth, use fresh chicken and roast it before simmering.
  • Avoid overmixing the dumpling batter to keep them light and fluffy.
  • Add vegetables like peas or celery for extra flavor and texture.
  • Shortcut option: Use Bisquick or Pillsbury biscuits for quicker dumplings.