Introduction to Southern Chicken and Dumplings
What are Southern Chicken and Dumplings?
Southern chicken and dumplings is a beloved comfort food that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine. This dish features tender, shredded chicken simmered in a rich and creamy broth, paired with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Often enjoyed during family gatherings and chilly evenings, it’s the perfect meal to bring warmth and comfort.
The origins of Southern chicken and dumplings can be traced back to rural kitchens across the South, where frugality met culinary creativity. Many families relied on simple, budget-friendly ingredients to create satisfying meals that still tasted delicious. Today, this dish is a staple on many dinner tables and is often customized with personal touches—be it a bit of thyme, a sprinkle of parsley, or even a hint of garlic to elevate the flavor profile.
Making Southern chicken and dumplings from scratch may seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple! The combination of savory chicken, rich broth, and light dumplings is sure to impress anyone who takes a seat at your table. Want to dive into the recipe? Let's get started!
Ingredients for Southern Chicken and Dumplings
When crafting the ultimate Southern chicken and dumplings, it’s all about the right ingredients. Let's break down what you’ll need for both the soup and the dumplings, ensuring that each component shines.
Soup Ingredients
To start, gather the following for the soup base:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 celery ribs, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 32 ounces chicken broth
- 16 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 16 ounces whole milk
These ingredients create a savory, cozy broth that’s full of flavor. For a heartier twist, feel free to use rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken available.
Dumpling Ingredients
For the fluffy dumplings that crown this classic dish, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
These simple ingredients come together to create warm, pillowy dumplings that soak up all that delicious broth. If you’re pressed for time, biscuit dough can also work in a pinch!
With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to creating a comforting batch of Southern chicken and dumplings that’ll warm both your home and your heart. For more culinary inspiration, check out this guide on Southern comfort foods.
Preparing Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Making Southern chicken and dumplings is an age-old tradition that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. With this step-by-step guide, you'll discover just how rewarding this dish can be. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a large stock pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, toss in a diced medium onion, along with three diced celery ribs. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 4 to 5 minutes or until they start to turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it forms the flavor base for your dish. Next, add two cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing that sumptuous garlic aroma that we all love. To thicken the broth, stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for one minute, allowing the flour to coat the vegetables nicely.
Prepare the Chicken and Broth
Slowly whisk in 32 ounces of chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits—the more flavor, the better! Add in 16 ounces of boneless skinless chicken breasts, along with ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning. Bring this to a simmer, cover it up, and let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit when done. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Lastly, stir in 16 ounces of whole milk for that creamy consistency.
Make the Dumpling Dough
Now, let’s shift our focus to the star of the show: the dumplings! In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons baking powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. Next, grate cold butter (¼ cup) over the flour mixture and gently toss it together. Creating a well in the center, pour in one cup of whole milk and mix until combined. The dough will appear shaggy but don’t worry—that’s what we want!
Cook the Dumplings
There are two methods for adding dumplings to your soup:
- Drop Dumplings: Simply scoop and drop spoonfuls of the dough directly into the simmering soup.
- Flat Dumplings: For a more traditional approach, roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness, cut them into squares, and gently place them in the soup.
Cover the pot tightly and let the dumplings steam in the simmering broth for about 15 minutes. You'll know they're done when they're cooked through to your liking.
Combine and Serve
When the dumplings are ready, carefully stir in your shredded chicken to combine everything seamlessly. This is where the Southern chicken and dumplings truly come together, merging all those delicious flavors. Serve hot with freshly cracked black pepper on top, and enjoy a bowl of comfort food that’s perfect for any gathering.
For a delightful variation, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Happy cooking!
Variations on Southern Chicken and Dumplings
If you’re looking to elevate your classic Southern chicken and dumplings, I've got a couple of delightful variations that might tickle your taste buds!
Substituting Rotisserie Chicken
When you're short on time but still craving that home-cooked feel, using rotisserie chicken is a game changer. Simply shred the chicken and stir it into the simmering soup right before you add the dumplings. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the broth. Check out this guide on making the most of a rotisserie chicken.
Quick Dumplings with Biscuit Dough
If you're in a hurry, consider using biscuit dough for your dumplings! Just grab a can of refrigerated biscuit dough, slice it into quarters, and drop the pieces into the simmering soup. This quick fix will give you that comforting dumpling experience without spending hours in the kitchen. For more biscuit inspiration, check out this detailed resource on various uses for biscuit dough.
With these variations, your Southern chicken and dumplings can be wonderfully versatile while still delivering that classic comfort food vibe!
Cooking notes for Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Storage tips for leftovers
To keep your Southern Chicken and Dumplings fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, gently warm them in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Cooking tips for perfect dumplings
For fluffy dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough; it should be shaggy and sticky. If you want to experiment, you can roll out the dough for flat dumplings, but remember, the secret to tender ones is in the gentle handling! Lastly, don’t skip the simmering step—cover tightly and keep the heat low; this allows your dumplings to cook evenly and absorb that delicious chicken flavor.
Serving suggestions for Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Ideal Accompaniments
When serving Southern chicken and dumplings, consider pairing it with a simple side salad for a refreshing crunch. A classic coleslaw or buttery cornbread can elevate the meal, adding texture and warmth. If you're in the mood to indulge, a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables will brighten your plate with flavor and nutrients.
Presentation Ideas
For an inviting presentation, serve your chicken and dumplings in shallow bowls. Top with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color, and consider placing a warm biscuit on the side. Use rustic dinnerware to enhance that Southern charm and create an inviting atmosphere for your guests.
For more ideas on Southern side dishes, check out Southern Living.
Time Details for Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Preparation Time
Get ready to dive into this comforting recipe! The preparation time for Southern Chicken and Dumplings is approximately 20 minutes. This includes all the chopping and mixing to make the soup and the dumplings.
Cooking Time
Once your ingredients are prepped, you’ll spend about 35 minutes cooking. This ensures your chicken is tender and your dumplings are fluffy and delicious.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a manageable recipe for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy every moment as the flavors meld beautifully!
Nutritional Information for Southern Chicken and Dumplings
When you indulge in a warm bowl of southern chicken and dumplings, it’s good to know what’s in it. Here's a quick breakdown of the nutritional information to help you enjoy this comforting dish mindfully.
Calories
Each serving of southern chicken and dumplings contains approximately 579 calories, making it a hearty meal.
Protein
You'll get about 31 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the chicken, which helps support muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Sodium
Keep in mind that this dish has a higher sodium content, with about 1421 mg per serving. It's always a good idea to adjust ingredients, like using low-sodium chicken broth, if you’re watching your salt intake.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving it at a family gathering, southern chicken and dumplings is not just delicious—it’s packed with the nutrients you need! For more tips on nutrition, check out resources from organizations like the American Heart Association or CDC Healthy Living.
FAQs about Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Southern chicken and dumplings can be prepared in advance. Just cook the soup and dumplings as usual, and let them cool before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Note that reheating may change the texture of the dumplings slightly, but they will still be delicious!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat your delicious leftovers, pour the Southern chicken and dumplings into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until warmed through. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This will help revive the flavors without sacrificing the delightful texture!
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To lighten up your Southern chicken and dumplings, consider these swaps:
- Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
- Opt for skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and juiciness, while also being mindful of portion sizes.
- Substitute some of the all-purpose flour in the dumpling recipe with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
These tweaks can maintain that comforting taste while making it a tad healthier!
Conclusion on Southern Chicken and Dumplings
In conclusion, Southern Chicken and Dumplings offer a delightful blend of comfort and flavor, perfect for any gathering. This hearty dish is not just a meal but a nostalgic experience, making it an essential recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy crafting this beloved classic for family and friends!
Southern Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- Stainless Steel 8-Quart Stock Pot
- OXO Metal Balloon Whisk
- OXO Stainless Steel Box Grater
- Pyrex Glass Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
Soup
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 ribs celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 32 ounces chicken broth
- 16 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 0.75 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 16 ounces whole milk
Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
Soup
- In a stock pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and celery and cook until lightly browned around the edges, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds. Add flour and stir to coat vegetables. Cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to catch any browned bits.
- Add chicken breasts, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to the soup and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until chicken breasts are cooked through to 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the center. Remove chicken from soup base and set aside to cool slightly before shredding.
- Add milk to soup and stir to combine.
Dumplings
- In a bowl, add flour, salt, and baking powder. Whisk to combine and remove lumps. Grate cold butter and add to flour mixture, tossing to combine.
- Make a well in the center of your flour mixture and add milk. Gently stir until ingredients are just incorporated. Dough will look shaggy and sticky.
- Using a spoon, scoop dough and drop gently into the soup.
- Toss dough out onto a floured surface and roll to about ¼" thickness. Slice into 1 inch strips, then cut strips into squares. Drop squares gently into the soup.
- Bring soup to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through to your liking.
- Remove lid and add shredded chicken. Stir gently to combine, then remove from heat and serve.
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