Chicken and Dumplings

Introduction

Chicken and Dumplings is one of those timeless comfort foods that warms both the body and soul. With its Southern roots, this dish is beloved for its savory broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings that soak up all the flavor. It’s a complete, hearty meal in one bowl—perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave the coziness of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed, thighs or breast)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh for garnish)

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed

• 1 cup milk (or buttermilk)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Stew Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter (or heat oil) over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for another minute.

2. Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the shredded chicken, reduce heat, and let simmer for 15 minutes to deepen the flavors. Stir in cream or milk if you prefer a richer broth. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Cut in the cold butter with your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until a soft dough forms.

4. Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dough directly onto the simmering stew. Do not stir once they’re in. Cover the pot with a tight lid and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes, until puffed and cooked through.

5. Serve

Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley. Ladle into bowls, making sure each serving has plenty of chicken, broth, and dumplings.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings is the definition of soul-satisfying comfort food. Every bite combines tender chicken, rich savory broth, and fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug—perfect for cozy dinners, sharing with loved ones, or when you simply want to enjoy a taste of home.