Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to create your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings:

Prepare the Chicken Stew: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot slices, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add in the chicken pieces and brown them lightly on all sides.
Simmer the Stew: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 45–60 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot. Discard the bones and skin, and shred the meat before returning it to the pot. Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil.
Make the Dumpling Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and your choice of herbs. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined to form a dough.
Add the Dumplings: Gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering stew. Cover the pot and lower the heat, ensuring to avoid lifting the lid for 15–20 minutes as the dumplings steam and cook through.
Serve Warm: After the dumplings are done, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Ladle the stew and dumplings into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some simple serving ideas. Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. A warm piece of crusty bread also complements the dish beautifully, allowing you to savor the luscious broth. For the perfect end to your meal, consider serving apple pie or bread pudding to reinforce that homey, comforting vibe.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store your Chicken and Dumplings, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its lifespan, consider freezing it in individual portions, allowing for easy reheating later. When reheating, ensure the dish is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some garlic along with the vegetables.
You can enhance the broth with a splash of white wine for an extra layer of taste.
If you want to cut down on prep time, opt for pre-cut vegetables or even rotisserie chicken.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative! Add different vegetables, such as peas or corn, to introduce variety. You can also swap traditional seasoning like thyme for a dash of paprika or cayenne for a hint of spice. For a heartier touch, consider mixing in herbs like rosemary, or even cheese into the dumpling mix for added richness.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare?

This recipe typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, including the simmering and cooking times.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through completely. Always ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stove. If the dumplings become too soft, you can add a bit more broth while reheating.