Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of simmering chicken and vegetables enveloped me in a comforting embrace. There’s something magical about making Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings; it’s a recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia, filling your home with flavors that whisper of family gatherings and cozy evenings. With tender chicken and fluffy dumplings swimming in a creamy broth, this dish is not just comfort food—it’s a heartwarming hug on a plate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Now, what’s more enticing than the idea of customizing this delightful classic? From gluten-free versions to spicy twists, there’s a variation waiting just for you. Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of chicken and dumplings? Why Are Chicken and Dumplings So Comforting? Hearty and Wholesome: This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth that warms the soul. Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight meal, this dish allows you to create something remarkable with minimal effort. Versatile Options: Feel free to personalize your creation with variations like gluten-free dumplings or a spicy kick with red pepper flakes! Family Favorite: Whether it’s a chilly day or a family gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy every palate and bring everyone together. Leftover Luxuries: Don’t worry about waste! You can freeze this dish for later, ensuring you can enjoy that comforting taste any day of the week. Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients For the Chicken and Broth Chicken – The heart of the dish; both whole or cut pieces create a flavorful base. Butter – Adds a rich flavor to the sauce; olive oil can be used for a lighter twist. Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and texture; feel free to swap in frozen peas for a burst of freshness. Celery – Essential for deepening the broth’s flavor; no substitutions needed here. Onion – The foundational flavor; shallots work nicely if you prefer a milder taste. Bay Leaves – Infuses aromatic notes; remember to remove them before you serve! Dried Thyme – Brings herbal warmth; fresh thyme elevates the dish even more. Garlic – A key aromatic to enhance flavors; garlic powder can be a quick alternative. Chicken Broth – The nectar of comfort; opt for low-sodium versions to control salt levels. For the Creamy Sauce Heavy Cream – Delivers that signature creaminess; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute. Frozen Peas – These are added for a pop of color and subtle sweetness; fresh peas taste delightful but require adjusted cooking times. For the Dumplings Dumpling Flour – Essential for achieving fluffy dumplings; consider gluten-free flour if needed. Baking Powder – Gives the dumplings a lightness; do not omit for optimal texture. Milk or Cream – Incorporates moisture; you can use non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option. Egg – Binds the ingredients together; aquafaba is an excellent vegan alternative. Whether it’s the classic or a special variation, these ingredients blend together to create a lovely dish of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings perfect for family meals or crisp evenings at home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Step 1: Cook Chicken In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it foams. Carefully add the chicken pieces, browning them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate; this will ensure the chicken stays juicy while the flavors build in the pot. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables In the same pot, add diced carrots, chopped celery, and onion; sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 2 bay leaves, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. The comforting aroma will start filling your kitchen, setting the stage for the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings. Step 3: Build Sauce Return the browned chicken to the pot and pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for 20-30 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender at this point. Keep an eye on it, ensuring that it doesn’t boil too vigorously, as we want a gently bubbling broth. Step 4: Add Cream and Peas Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot again. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of frozen peas, combining well. Allow the mixture to simmer until the peas are heated through, about 3-5 minutes. This creamy addition will create a rich sauce for the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, enhancing the overall comfort of the dish. Step 5: Make Dumplings For the dumplings, mix together your choice of dumpling flour, baking powder, milk, and an egg in a bowl until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture into the simmering broth, spacing them out evenly. These fluffy dumplings will be the crowning glory of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, soaking up all that creamy goodness. Step 6: Cook Dumplings Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam in the gently simmering broth for 15-20 minutes. Avoid removing the lid during this time to allow them to rise and cook through completely. The dumplings should be light and fluffy, nestled perfectly alongside the tender chicken in the creamy broth. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the dumplings are fluffy and the chicken is tender, taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings into bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired. Serve this comforting dish warm, sharing the love and warmth it brings to your table. Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings: Customization Ideas Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings—it’s all about making it your own! Mushroom Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the vegetables to add deep umami flavors. It’s a lovely twist that enriches the dish. Spicy Kick: Introduce red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat, transforming your meal into a flavorful adventure. A little spice can change everything! Gluten-Free Delight: Swap in gluten-free flour for the dumplings without sacrificing taste—everyone can enjoy this comforting classic at the table. Cornmeal Twist: Mix half the flour with cornmeal for a rustic texture and a unique taste. It pairs beautifully with the creamy broth! Creamy Spinach Variation: Stir in fresh spinach just before serving for an extra punch of nutrition and vibrant green color. It’s a delightful addition! Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill while cooking to elevate the dish’s aromatic profile; it brings brightness and finesse. Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest brightens the dish and balances the creaminess. This is a simple yet effective change that brightens the flavor. Chicken Thighs: Instead of using whole pieces, try chicken thighs for juicier meat that adds richness and flavor to your dish. For more delicious chicken ideas, don’t miss out on my recipes for Fried Chicken Street Tacos or Chicken Thighs and Potatoes for delightful variations that your family will love. What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings? Embrace the warmth of family meals by complementing your chicken and dumplings with additional dishes that enhance the cozy experience. Buttery Cornbread: A slice of moist cornbread adds a sweetness and a hearty texture that perfectly balances the creamy broth. Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans infused with garlic provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the soft dumplings and rich chicken. Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing element and brightens up the meal, cutting through the richness. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes offer a delightful companion, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. Crusty Bread: Slices of freshly baked bread are ideal for dipping into the savory sauce, enhancing the comfort food experience. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully, as its acidity complements the rich flavors of the dish. Peach Cobbler: End on a sweet note with a warm peach cobbler; its fruity goodness and flaky crust provide a delightful contrast to the savory meal. Make Ahead Options These Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken and vegetables, then let them cool and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the dumpling batter and store it separately in the fridge overnight. This way, when you’re ready to enjoy your comforting dish, simply combine the refrigerated chicken and broth in a pot, heat it gently, and then add the dumplings (dropped in just before serving) for a fresh, fluffy finish. This approach ensures that all flavors meld beautifully while keeping the dumplings just as delicious and soft as if they were made from scratch right before serving. Storage Tips for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Fridge: Store leftover Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months. Ensure it cools completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Dumpling Texture: Keep in mind that the dumplings may change texture slightly after freezing, but the comforting flavor will remain intact. Reheating: When reheating, do so on low heat to keep the dumplings light and fluffy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even heating. Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Dumpling Placement: Ensure dumplings are evenly spaced while cooking to allow them to rise without sticking together. Broth Tasting: Always taste the broth for seasoning before adding dumplings. This ensures a well-flavored, comforting dish. Reheating Care: When reheating leftovers, do it slowly on low heat to prevent the dumplings from becoming tough or overly soggy. Grease Control: Avoid using too much butter; while it adds richness, excess fat can make the dish greasy. Adding Flavor: Incorporating fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice right before serving enhances the overall flavor of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings. Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for the recipe? Absolutely! You can use a whole chicken, cut pieces, or even rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. If using cut pieces, bone-in thighs and breasts will give you the most flavor. Ensure the chicken is fresh and not past its sell-by date for the best results. How should I store leftovers? Store leftover Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. If the broth thickens, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up! Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it slowly on the stove to preserve the dumplings’ texture. What should I do if my dumplings turn out too dense? If the dumplings aren’t fluffy, it’s likely due to over-mixing the dough or cooking them too long. For fluffy dumplings, mix just until combined and avoid opening the pot while they cook. Ensure your baking powder is fresh, as it’s crucial for creating lightness in the dumpling texture. Are there any dietary restrictions to consider? For gluten-free options, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings. Additionally, you might want to use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. Always check for ingredients your guests may be allergic to, ensuring everyone’s comfort and enjoyment at the table. Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings: A Cozy Family Classic This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a cozy family classic that brings warmth and nostalgia, perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrDumpling Cooking Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken and Broth1 whole Chicken both whole or cut pieces create a flavorful base2 tablespoons Butter olive oil can be used for a lighter twist2 cups Carrots feel free to swap in frozen peas for a burst of freshness2 stalks Celery essential for deepening the broth's flavor1 large Onion shallots work nicely if you prefer a milder taste2 leaves Bay Leaves remember to remove them before you serve1 teaspoon Dried Thyme fresh thyme elevates the dish even more2 cloves Garlic garlic powder can be a quick alternative4 cups Chicken Broth opt for low-sodium versions to control salt levelsFor the Creamy Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute1 cup Frozen Peas fresh peas taste delightful but require adjusted cooking timesFor the Dumplings2 cups Dumpling Flour consider gluten-free flour if needed1 tablespoon Baking Powder do not omit for optimal texture1 cup Milk or Cream you can use non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option1 large Egg aquafaba is an excellent vegan alternative Equipment Large pot Method Step‑By‑Step InstructionsIn a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it foams. Carefully add the chicken pieces, browning them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.In the same pot, add diced carrots, chopped celery, and onion; sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 2 bay leaves, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.Return the browned chicken to the pot and pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for 20-30 minutes.Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot again. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of frozen peas, combining well.For the dumplings, mix together your choice of dumpling flour, baking powder, milk, and an egg in a bowl until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture into the simmering broth.Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam in the gently simmering broth for 15-20 minutes.Once the dumplings are fluffy and the chicken is tender, ladle the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings into bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure dumplings are evenly spaced while cooking to allow them to rise without sticking together. Always taste the broth for seasoning before adding dumplings. When reheating leftovers, do it slowly on low heat to prevent the dumplings from becoming tough or overly soggy. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
