Looking for a comforting and hearty meal to warm you up on a cold day? Dive into the nostalgia of a homemade classic with Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a labor of love that pays off in every bite.
Have you ever had a dish that holds so many memories and flavors that it instantly transports you back in time? For many families, this recipe is a cherished tradition that brings loved ones together at the dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
– Delicious Nostalgia: A classic recipe that reminds you of home-cooked meals.
– Rich Broth: The homemade broth infuses the dumplings with flavor.
– Comfort in Every Bite: Warm your soul with each spoonful.
– Filling and Satisfying: A meal that leaves you feeling content and satisfied.
Ingredient Notes
– Chicken & Broth: Chicken breasts or whole chicken, butter, chicken bouillon.
– Dumplings: Butter, eggs, milk, all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, yellow food coloring (or turmeric).
How to Make Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
– Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broth: Cook the chicken in a Dutch oven with water, butter, and bouillon until tender.
– Step 2: Make the Dumplings: Mix eggs with melted butter, milk, flour, salt, and pepper to form a sticky dough. Roll out and cut into strips.
– Step 3: Cook the Dumplings: Add dumplings to boiling broth, ensuring ample liquid to prevent scorching. Gently stir in shredded or chopped chicken.
Storage Options
After making this dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and dumplings on the stovetop, adding a bit of extra broth to maintain the consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the chicken with vegetable broth and add your favorite veggies.
– Spicy Flavor: Enhance the broth with cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick.
– Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make the dumplings suitable for a gluten-sensitive diet.
What to Serve With Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
Complement your meal with these side dishes and drinks:
– Garlic Bread: Crusty bread with garlic butter for dipping.
– Green Salad: Fresh greens with a simple vinaigrette.
– Apple Cider: Warm apple cider with a hint of cinnamon.
– Seasonal Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits for a light touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?: Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a different flavor.
– How do I prevent the dumplings from sticking together?: Ensure the broth is boiling rapidly and there is sufficient broth for the dumplings to cook properly.
– Can I freeze this dish?: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and dumplings for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
After indulging in Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings, expect to be greeted with a heartwarming meal that soothes your senses. The aroma of the rich broth and tender chicken combined with fluffy, flavorful dumplings will bring you comfort and joy with every spoonful.
Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
Ingredients
Chicken & Broth
- 2 lbs chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 2 tbsp butter
- Chicken bouillon
Dumplings
- 1/3 cup butter melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- yellow food coloring or turmeric
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broth
- Step 2: Make the Dumplings
- Step 3: Cook the Dumplings