How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty meal. This recipe features tender chunks of chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to enjoy a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

For the Chicken Stew:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

1. Prepare the Chicken Stew: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk and melted butter. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken stew. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
6. Remove the bay leaf from the stew and discard. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

About the Main Ingredients

Chicken: Chicken is the star of this dish, providing protein and a rich, savory flavor. Using a whole chicken adds depth to the broth and allows you to use both white and dark meat for a more flavorful stew.

Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery, and garlic add flavor and texture to the stew. They also provide essential nutrients and vitamins.

Chicken Broth: Chicken broth forms the base of the stew, adding flavor and richness. You can use store-bought chicken broth or homemade broth for the best flavor.

Herbs and Spices: Bay leaf and thyme add depth and aroma to the stew. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste.

Dumplings: The dumplings are made from a simple mixture of flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter. They cook right in the stew, absorbing the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

Old fashioned chicken and dumplings is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this classic recipe is sure to please.