Cozy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: Homemade Comfort in a Bowl

Comfort flows through every spoonful of this classic chicken and dumplings recipe that warms the soul on chilly evenings.

Southern kitchens have perfected this hearty dish over generations.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among soft, pillowy dumplings in a rich, creamy broth.

Each bite carries memories of home-cooked meals shared around wooden tables.

Generations have cherished this simple yet deeply satisfying comfort food.

The recipe combines basic ingredients with love and tradition.

Savor the warmth and nostalgia in every comforting spoonful of this timeless classic.

Ingredients Needed for Classic Chicken & Dumplings

• Chicken: Protein that forms the heart of this classic comfort dish.
• Flour: Key ingredient for creating soft, tender dumplings.
• Buttermilk: Provides richness and helps create fluffy dumpling texture.

• Onion, Carrots, Celery: Create a flavorful base and add depth to the broth.
• Parsley: Adds fresh herb flavor and brightens the overall dish.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Chicken Bouillon, Water: Provide the foundation for a rich, savory broth.
• Heavy Cream: Optional ingredient that adds extra creaminess to the dish.

• Baking Powder, Butter: Help create the perfect dumpling texture and provide richness.

Kitchen Gear to Make Dumplings Easy

• Large Dutch Oven or Saucepan: Essential for cooking the entire dish, providing ample space for simmering chicken and dumplings.
• Cutting Board: Perfect for dicing vegetables and chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Sharp Kitchen Knife: Needed for precise vegetable and chicken chopping.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and sautéing ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Critical for accurate ingredient proportions.
• Rolling Pin: Used to roll out dumpling dough to the right thickness.
• Mixing Bowl: Necessary for combining dumpling dry ingredients and buttermilk.
• Strainer or Slotted Spoon: Helpful for separating vegetables from broth.

Chicken & Dumplings Recipe Directions

Step 1: Create Flavor Foundation

Grab your favorite medium saucepan and melt butter until it’s golden.

• Diced onions
• Diced celery
• Fresh parsley

Sauté everything until the vegetables become soft and the onions turn translucent, releasing their magical aroma.

Step 2: Cook Tender Chicken

Sprinkle in salt and pepper.

Add chicken to the pan with water and bouillon.

Cover and let the chicken simmer gently until it’s perfectly cooked through and tender.

Step 3: Craft Dreamy Dumpling Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Pour in buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and slice into bite-sized squares.

Step 4: Transform Broth

Remove the chicken and strain out the vegetables.

Return the liquid to the pan and add extra water, bouillon, and a dash of pepper.

Bring the broth to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Drop and Simmer Dumplings

Carefully drop dumpling squares into the bubbling broth one at a time.

Reduce heat and let them simmer uncovered until they’re soft and pillowy.

Step 6: Final Touches

Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot.

Let everything mingle and heat through until the broth thickens.

For extra richness, swirl in some heavy cream.

Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked pepper before serving.

Dumpling Tips for Fluffy Results

• Choose plump, high-quality chicken breasts and use fresh buttermilk for the most tender, flavorful dumplings that melt in your mouth.
• Cut dumpling squares evenly to ensure uniform cooking and a professional-looking dish that cooks perfectly throughout.
• Adjust broth consistency by simmering longer to reduce liquid or adding a small amount of flour if you prefer a thicker, more luxurious sauce.
• Dust work surface and rolling pin with flour to keep dough from sticking and ensure light, fluffy dumplings that separate easily.
• Substitute some water with chicken stock or add a splash of white wine to intensify the savory profile of this classic comfort meal.

Chicken & Dumplings Alternatives

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace buttermilk with almond milk and use olive oil instead of butter for a lactose-free version.
• Gluten-Free Comfort: Swap wheat flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use cornstarch to thicken the broth.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace traditional dumplings with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate content.

Serving Chicken & Dumplings for Comfort

• Family Comfort Plate: Pair this hearty chicken and dumplings with warm buttermilk biscuits or crusty sourdough bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Rustic Meal Companion: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy texture of the dish.
• Southern Side Delight: Add roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra nutrition and color contrast on the plate.
• Cozy Dinner Enhancement: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright, fresh garnish that elevates the homestyle presentation.

Storing Dumplings Enjoyment

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain flavor quality.
• Transfer chicken and dumplings to freezer-safe containers, leaving slight space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying.

FAQs

• How difficult is this recipe to make?

This recipe requires intermediate cooking skills. You’ll need to handle multiple steps like sautéing vegetables, cooking chicken, making dumpling dough, and managing broth consistency. Basic kitchen techniques like chopping, rolling dough, and simmering are essential.

• Can I substitute buttermilk in the dumpling dough?

Yes, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using. This creates a similar tangy flavor and texture to buttermilk.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They cook quickly, are easy to chop, and absorb the broth’s flavors well. Chicken thighs can also work if you prefer a slightly richer taste.

Southern Comfort: Cracker Barrel Chicken & Dumplings

• Recreate the beloved Cracker Barrel classic right in your own kitchen with this hearty, soul-warming recipe that brings restaurant-quality comfort food to your dining table.
• Learn easy-to-follow steps that transform basic ingredients into a rich, flavorful dish perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, requiring only standard kitchen tools and common pantry staples.
• Enjoy flexible recipe options like adding heavy cream for extra richness or adjusting seasoning to match your family's taste preferences, making this dish adaptable to personal cooking styles.
• Prepare a nutritious one-pot meal packed with tender chicken, soft dumplings, and vegetables that delivers satisfying flavor and fills hungry bellies with wholesome, homemade deliciousness.

Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

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4.7 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Southern chicken and dumplings deliver comfort through generations of hearty home cooking. Grandmothers’ classic techniques blend tender meat, creamy broth, and pillowy dumplings you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins, thawed

Vegetables:

• 1/2 cup diced carrots, celery, and onion

Base and Liquid:

• 4 1/2 cups water
• 5 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)

Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup buttermilk

Seasonings:

• Freshly cracked pepper (to taste)
• Sea salt (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Create a flavorful base by gently melting butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté diced vegetables and parsley until they become tender and aromatic, approximately 4-5 minutes.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add bouillon and water. Simmer the chicken, covered, for 10-15 minutes until thoroughly cooked through.
3. Craft the dumpling dough by mixing flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Incorporate buttermilk until a cohesive dough forms. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately 1/4-inch thickness and slice into small squares.
4. Extract the cooked chicken and strain the vegetables from the existing broth. Reintroduce the broth to the pan, supplementing with additional water, bouillon, and pepper. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
5. Carefully drop dumplings into the bubbling broth, one at a time. Reduce heat and allow them to simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they become completely tender.
6. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot. Warm the chicken and allow the broth to naturally thicken. For added richness, swirl in heavy cream. Garnish with fresh cracked pepper and chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

• Choose tender, boneless chicken breasts for the most delicate texture and easiest preparation.
• Keep dumpling dough cold and handle minimally to ensure light, fluffy results that melt in your mouth.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and customize seasoning precisely to your taste.
• Gluten-free alternative: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for celiac-friendly version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg