🍲 How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Make the Broth
Place the chicken, water (or broth), carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and bay leaves in a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cook uncovered for 45–60 minutes, skimming off any foam.
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly.
Strain the broth, discarding the solids. Return the clear broth to the pot.
Shred the chicken into bite-size pieces and return it to the pot.
Step 2: Make the Dumplings
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture is crumbly.
Stir in the milk until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into strips or squares — rustic shapes are part of the charm!
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Bring the chicken and broth to a gentle boil.
Drop the dumpling pieces into the hot broth, one at a time to prevent sticking.
Lower the heat to medium and cover.
Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the dumplings are tender and slightly puffed.
Step 4: Final Touches
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or a dash of black pepper for an earthy finish.
❤️ Why We Love It
Rich and creamy without being heavy
One pot = less mess
Perfect for feeding a crowd
Leftovers taste even better the next day
This old-fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe is the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for rainy days, chilly nights, or anytime you need a bowl of something that feels like a warm hug.
👩🍳 Tips for Success
Use bone-in chicken for deeper flavor.
Don’t overwork the dumpling dough — tender is the goal!
Want it creamier? Add a splash of heavy cream or milk after the dumplings are cooked.
Final Thought
When life feels a little chaotic, chicken and dumplings is the kind of dish that slows things down. It’s not flashy, it’s not trendy — it’s just real food made with care, passed down through generations and still as comforting today as it was decades ago.
Try this recipe once, and you might just start a tradition of your own. 🥣🍗✨
