Homemade Chicken and Dumplings offers more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, a dish that perfectly embodies warmth and comfort, especially on a chilly evening. This beloved American classic has graced countless dinner tables, becoming a treasured family favorite for its rich, hearty flavors and soul-satisfying texture. Imagine succulent, tender chicken enveloped in a deeply savory broth, studded with light, fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth – it’s a combination that truly captures the essence of home cooking and simple pleasures.
While the idea of preparing such a masterpiece from scratch might seem a little intimidating at first, rest assured, creating your own pot of delicious homemade chicken and dumplings is an incredibly rewarding experience that’s far easier than you might think. With my guidance, you’ll soon master this recipe, turning out bowls of this ultimate comfort food that will have everyone clamoring for a second helping. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a steaming, fragrant dish that promises both flavor and coziness in every bite.
I recently embarked on a culinary adventure with this dish, making it for the very first time after never having even tasted it before. My inspiration came from a cherished friend, Melissa, and her wonderful publication, Melissa’s Southern Cookbook – Tried and True Family Recipes. Her cookbook is a true gem, brimming with authentic Southern recipes passed down through generations of her family, each one a testament to the power of tradition and the joy of sharing food. The book is beautifully presented with stunning photographs that bring to life a wide array of appetizers, main courses, desserts, and much more. If you appreciate a cookbook that’s as lovely to look at as it is to cook from, Melissa’s Southern Cookbook is an absolute must-have for your kitchen shelf.
The Essence of Southern Chicken Dumplings
In this particular one-pot meal, the “dumplings” are a distinctive highlight. They aren’t the familiar Asian-style dumplings typically wrapped around a savory filling, nor are they the flat, noodle-like dumplings sometimes found in other recipes. Instead, these are wonderfully soft, doughy, biscuit-like creations that cook directly in the simmering broth, absorbing all its rich flavors. Made with a simple buttermilk dough, they puff up beautifully into tender, bite-sized clouds of deliciousness.
The process of dropping spoonfuls of the dough into the bubbling pot and watching them transform into perfectly cooked dumplings is truly delightful. After simmering gently for about 25 minutes alongside the flavorful chicken, aromatic stock, and carefully selected seasonings, these dumplings emerge incredibly light, tender, and utterly perfect. Each dumpling acts like a sponge, soaking up the savory goodness of the soup, contributing to the dish’s irresistible texture and profound comfort. This distinct style of dumpling is what gives this classic Southern chicken and dumplings recipe its unique charm and makes it a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients Needed for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
To embark on this culinary journey and create a truly unforgettable homemade chicken and dumplings, gathering high-quality ingredients is key. The simplicity of this recipe allows each component to shine, contributing to a symphony of flavors that define true comfort food. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
- 3 cups roughly chopped cooked chicken pieces (chicken breasts are ideal for their lean texture, but dark meat can also add richer flavor)
- 3 14-ounce cans low sodium chicken broth or stock (approximately 52 ounces total for a flavorful, well-balanced base)
- 1 can cream of celery soup (this provides a wonderfully creamy base and subtle savory notes)
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (a classic blend that infuses the dish with traditional savory and earthy flavors)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for a fresh, aromatic kick)
- ½ teaspoon dried tarragon (adds a distinct, slightly anise-like flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (enhances the savory depth without adding texture)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (a subtle hint of garlic for complexity)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (essential for thickening the rich broth to perfection)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature (for the roux to thicken the broth, ensuring it’s smooth and luscious)
For the Fluffy Dumpling Dough
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold salted butter, cubed (cold butter is crucial for creating tender, flaky dumplings)
- 3 cups self-rising flour (the leavening is already included, making the dumplings light and airy)
- 1 cup whole buttermilk (adds tang, moisture, and activates the leavening in the self-rising flour for extra fluffiness)
How to Make the Ultimate Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Creating this comforting dish is a straightforward process, yielding incredibly satisfying results. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a flavorful broth and perfectly fluffy dumplings every time:
Preparing the Flavorful Broth:
Begin by combining the cooked, shredded chicken, chicken stock, cream of celery soup, poultry seasoning, salt, black pepper, dried tarragon, onion powder, and garlic powder in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to ensure all ingredients are well combined and heat evenly. Bring the mixture to a full boil, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse the broth.
Chef’s Note: If you choose to cook your own chicken breasts for this recipe, you might season them beforehand. For instance, I seasoned each chicken breast with 1 ½ teaspoons of Weber’s Kick’N Chicken Seasoning. If doing so, you can adjust the poultry seasoning in the main broth to 1 ½ teaspoons and omit the additional salt, pepper, tarragon, onion powder, and garlic powder, as these flavors are already present in the chicken seasoning. Alternatively, for a homemade poultry seasoning blend, you can use ½ teaspoon each of ground sage, ground marjoram, ground thyme, and ground rosemary.
While the broth is heating, prepare your thickening agent. In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup all-purpose flour with the 4 tablespoons of room temperature salted butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mash them together until a smooth paste, or roux, forms. Once the broth is boiling, gradually whisk this flour and butter paste into the pot. Continue whisking gently until the broth begins to thicken to your desired consistency. This step ensures a smooth, creamy broth without any lumps.
Crafting the Easy Homemade Dumplings:
In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of self-rising flour with the ½ cup of cold, cubed salted butter. Using a pastry blender, two knives, or even a food processor, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. It’s important for the butter to remain cold to create pockets of steam, resulting in tender dumplings. Avoid overmixing at this stage.
Next, pour in the 1 cup of whole buttermilk. Using a fork, gently mix the buttermilk into the flour and butter mixture just until it comes together to form a soft, shaggy biscuit dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough dumplings. The less you handle the dough, the more tender your dumplings will be.
Once the broth in your pot is at a gentle, rolling boil, begin dropping spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the hot liquid. A 2-ounce ice cream scoop or a large tablespoon works perfectly for this, creating consistently sized dumplings. Drop them directly into the broth, leaving a little space between each one to allow them to expand. Immediately after dropping all the dumplings, reduce the heat to a low, gentle simmer and cover the pot tightly. This tight seal is crucial for steaming the dumplings evenly.
Allow the chicken and dumplings to simmer undisturbed for precisely 25 minutes. It’s vital not to lift the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for cooking the dumplings through and making them light and fluffy. Peeking will release the steam and can result in dense, undercooked dumplings.
After 25 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and carefully uncover it. Gently stir the contents with a wooden spoon, taking care not to break apart the delicate dumplings. Let the entire dish rest, uncovered, for at least 5 minutes. This resting period allows the broth to thicken further and the flavors to fully settle, enhancing the overall creaminess and richness of the stew.
And there you have it! Your perfectly crafted Chicken ‘n’ Dumplins, a dish that conjures images of Grandma’s kitchen, is ready to be enjoyed. Ladle generous portions into bowls, ensuring each serving includes plenty of the flavorful chicken, creamy broth, and plump, fluffy dumplings. For an added burst of freshness and color, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot and savor the comforting, homemade flavors of this timeless classic. This easy dinner recipe is bound to become a new family favorite, just as it has in my own home!
Recipe Variations to Customize Your Chicken and Dumplings
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to personalize recipes to suit your taste preferences. This homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is wonderfully versatile, offering numerous avenues for customization. Here are some delightful variations to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Embrace More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by incorporating a wider array of vegetables. Beyond peas, corn, or green beans, consider adding diced carrots, chopped celery, or even small potato cubes. For fresh vegetables, add them along with the chicken and broth, ensuring they cook until tender. If using frozen vegetables, stir them in during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Indulge in a Creamier Version: For those who adore an extra-rich and velvety broth, a simple addition can elevate the creaminess. Towards the very end of the cooking process, after the dumplings have simmered, stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a dollop of sour cream. This will impart a more luxurious mouthfeel and a richer, more indulgent flavor profile to your chicken stew.
- Add a Spicier Kick: If you appreciate a bit of heat to warm you from the inside out, it’s easy to introduce some spice. A pinch of cayenne pepper, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce, or even some finely diced jalapeños (added with the initial broth ingredients) can provide a pleasant fiery kick to the creamy chicken stew. Adjust the amount to match your desired level of heat.
- Experiment with Herb Combinations: While poultry seasoning is traditional, feel free to explore other herb profiles. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage, finely chopped, can be added towards the end of cooking for a vibrant aroma. Dried bay leaves, removed before serving, can also deepen the savory notes.
- Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free alternative, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both the broth thickening and the dumplings. Ensure the blend contains a leavening agent or add baking powder if using plain gluten-free flour. Results may vary slightly in texture, but it’s a great way to enjoy the dish with dietary restrictions.
- Healthier Twist: To lighten the dish, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, low-sodium broth, and a reduced-fat cream of celery soup. You can also increase the vegetable content significantly. For the dumplings, while butter is traditional, you could experiment with a lighter fat or even a slightly lower amount of butter, though this might impact the texture.
FAQs About Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this comforting dish:
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves a significant amount of time and effort. Leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even boiled chicken breasts are perfect. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pot when you’re preparing the broth, ensuring it’s heated through before you add the dumplings. This makes the recipe even quicker for a busy weeknight meal.
Can I freeze homemade chicken and dumplings?
Yes, homemade chicken and dumplings can be frozen, making it an excellent meal prep option. To freeze, allow the entire stew to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Be sure to leave a little headspace for expansion. Label and date the containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw the chicken and dumplings in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the consistency is too thick.
How long will this recipe keep?
When stored properly, your homemade chicken and dumplings will last a few days in the refrigerator. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. As mentioned, it also freezes beautifully and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Always ensure it’s reheated thoroughly before serving.
Can I substitute cream of chicken soup in this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly substitute cream of chicken soup, or indeed most other “cream of” soups, for the cream of celery soup in this recipe. While the flavor profile will be slightly altered (cream of mushroom or cream of potato will add different underlying notes), they are generally interchangeable in terms of providing creaminess and thickening. If you prefer a more natural, homemade base, you could also make your own cream sauce with milk or cream and a roux, then season it appropriately before adding to the broth.
How can I prevent tough dumplings?
Tough dumplings are usually a result of overmixing the dough or lifting the lid during the simmering process. To ensure light and fluffy dumplings:
- Don’t overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. A few lumps are fine; don’t knead it excessively.
- Keep the lid on: The dumplings need to steam thoroughly to become light and airy. Lifting the lid releases the steam and can cause them to become dense and chewy.
- Gentle simmer: Ensure the broth is at a gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil, once the dumplings are added.
What if my broth is too thin or too thick?
If your broth is too thin after the dumplings have cooked and rested, you can create a quick slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with an equal amount of cold water. Slowly whisk this into the simmering broth, allowing it to cook for a minute or two until thickened. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of comforting chicken dishes, I’m confident you’ll enjoy these other family-friendly recipes:
- Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole
- Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi
- Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Chicken Divan
- Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
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Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
- 3 cups roughly chopped cooked chicken
- 52 ounces low sodium chicken broth or stock (3) 14-ounce cans
- 10.75 ounces cream of celery soup
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried tarragon
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons salted butter room temperature
Dumplings
- ½ cup salted cold butter cubed
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
Instructions
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Place the chicken, chicken stock, celery soup, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, tarragon, onion powder, and garlic powder in a large pot over high heat and bring to a boil.
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In a small bowl, mix together the flour and butter to form a paste. Whisk into the pot to thicken the broth.
To Make the Dumplings
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Cut the butter into the flour, using a pastry blender or food processor, until the mixture resembles cornmeal.
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Using a fork, mix the buttermilk into the flour until it forms a soft dough.
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Using a 2-ounce ice cream scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough into the boiling broth. Immediately lower the heat to a simmer and cover tightly. Allow to simmer for 25 minutes without lifting the lid.
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Uncover and gently stir. Let rest, uncovered, for at least 5 minutes, to allow the both to thicken.
Cook’s Note:
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In place of poultry seasoning, you may use 1/2 teaspoon each of ground sage, ground marjoram, ground thyme and ground rosemary.
Notes
Nutrition
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Here are some other delightful recipes that friends have made and loved from Melissa’s wonderful cookbook:
- Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon
- Classic Hushpuppies
- Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake
- Chocolate Honey Butter and the Best Buttermilk Biscuits
- Garlic Herb Parmesan Pull-Apart
The Verdict: A True Comfort Food Champion!
Melissa’s Chicken N’ Dumplins recipe is truly comfort food at its absolute finest. It’s a dish that goes beyond mere sustenance, offering warmth, satisfaction, and a delicious taste of Southern hospitality. I will undoubtedly be adding this recipe to my permanent rotation, eagerly looking forward to making it again whenever the craving for down-home, hearty comfort food strikes!
When the cold weather rolls in, and I find myself weary of the usual rotation of soups and stews, I know that a steaming pot of Chicken N’ Dumplins will be just the thing to banish the chill and bring a smile to our faces. The rich, creamy broth, the tender chicken, and those impossibly fluffy, biscuit-like dumplings create a symphony of flavors and textures that simply can’t be beaten. Melissa truly knocked it out of the park with this recipe, delivering a dish that is both easy to make and deeply rewarding to eat.
As always, all opinions expressed here are genuinely my own. I sincerely appreciate your continued support of 365 Days of Baking and More, and your support of Melissa’s Southern Style Kitchen as well. It means the world to be able to share these wonderful recipes and culinary inspirations with you.
This recipe is reprinted with express permission from Melissa Sperka, the talented author of Melissa’s Southern Cookbook – Tried and True Family Recipes, published by The Countryman Press, a division of W. W. Norton & Company, New York, NY 2016. ISBN 978-1-58157-383-1.
This post was originally published on August 27, 2016, and has been lovingly updated with refreshed content, improved formatting, and new pictures on October 11, 2023, to continue bringing you the best of classic comfort food.
