Image by Somsoll abdin

Chicken and dumplings

Ah, Chicken and Dumplings: that timeless classic. There’s nothing quite like the comfort of this humble dish to bring solace to weary souls. There is an undeniable allure in the simple combination of succulent chicken and soft, doughy dumplings. It is an inviting juxtaposition of contrasting flavors and textures that make it an emotive favorite amongst many.

Chicken and dumplings


The key to a standout Chicken and Dumplings recipe lies in its versatility. From Hearty Chicken Stews to creamy soups, the possibilities are truly endless. Regardless of the preparation method chosen, the flavor combinations remain constant: juicy, tender chicken pieces alongside fluffy, pillow-like dumplings. It is the perfect melding of homestyle cooking and complex gastronomy.

For a truly extraordinary version of this classic dish, the chicken should be slowly simmered until its juices run thick, at which point the dumplings can be added. Because these doughy morsels cook quickly, keep in mind that they should only be added once the stew has reached a rolling boil. To amp up the flavor further, consider adding freshly ground herbs and spices to the mixture. Roasted garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, or dried thyme imparts a zestful finish that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

When cooked properly, Chicken and Dumplings will yield a tender, hearty meal that, quite literally, melts in the mouth. Enjoyed as a standalone dish or served with a side of fresh vegetables and crusty bread, it is a simple yet delightful concoction that never fails to satisfy.

Chicken and dumplings recipes

Amazing Chicken and dumplings recipes sourced from the web.

Image by Jana Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings


5 / 5 (150 votes)
Cooking time:1 hr
The Cozy Cook
Image by Somsoll abdin Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Chicken and Dumplings Recipe


4.5 / 5 (2600 votes)
Cooking time:50 min
The Novice Chef
Image by Jana BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings

BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings


5 / 5 (57 votes)
Cooking time:
Bon Appetit

The origin of Chicken and dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that hails from the American South. This lip-smacking concoction of chicken and doughy dumplings is beloved the world over and is truly an irreplaceable culinary staple.

The exact origin of the dish is a bit of a mystery, with estimates ranging from pre-American colonial times to as recently as the early 20th century. What can be said for sure is that this dish has been a mainstay in homes across the South for centuries.

One popular origin story suggests that settlers along the Appalachian Trail brought this dish with them to the New World in the 1700s. These settlers would often prepare their own version of the dish using whatever ingredients they had on hand. In some cases, this meant simply boiling the chicken into a broth and adding homemade dumplings made from a mashed potato batter or biscuit dough.

Another theory claims that an old-fashioned West Virginia recipe was the foundation for chicken and dumplings. This recipe calls for pan-frying chicken until it was browned before adding dumplings made from flour and baking soda. The mixture was then simmered until the dough was cooked through.

Regardless of where this lip-smacking combination of chicken and dumplings originated, it has become a beloved dish across the entire nation. There are countless variations of the dish to be found, from creamy casseroles to tangy soups, each one boasting its own unique flavor. Whether it's served for dinner or as part of a comfort food buffet, chicken and dumplings are sure to draw a crowd.

No matter its mysterious beginnings, chicken and dumplings' delightful flavor and universal appeal will ensure it continues to be a beloved culinary staple for generations to come.

FAQs about Chicken and dumplings

How does Paula Deen make chicken and dumplings?

Paula Deen's recipe for chicken and dumplings uses simple ingredients such as boneless chicken breast, butter, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen peas, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.

1. Start by bringing a pot full of lightly salted water to a boil and adding the boneless chicken breast. Boil the chicken until it is cooked through, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and then add the onion, celery, carrots and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.

3. Add the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen peas, and cooked chicken. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes.

4. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk the dry ingredients into the simmering pot of soup. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the boiling soup mixture and cover the pot. Cook the dumplings for 10 minutes.

6. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot. Enjoy!

Is biscuit dough the same as dumplings?

No, biscuit dough and dumplings are not the same. Biscuits are made of a dough that is leavened with baking powder or baking soda and can be either sweet or savory. Dumplings are made of a thick dough that is boiled or steamed instead of baked and are usually savory.

What do you serve with chicken and dumplings?

Common sides to serve with chicken and dumplings include green beans, cornbread, carrots, mashed potatoes, biscuits, and steamed vegetables.

What is the secret to good dumplings?

The secret to good dumplings is all in the preparation. Make sure to mix the filling ingredients together well and season it correctly. When forming the dumplings, ensure that they are tightly sealed so that the juices do not escape when cooking them. Finally, use the proper cooking technique; steaming and boiling are two of the most common cooking methods for dumplings.

Types of Chicken and dumplings

Tantalizingly warm and delicious, chicken and dumplings are a classic comfort food staple enjoyed by many. Despite its seemingly simple ingredients, there is an array of variations for this home-style favorite, ranging from the traditional baked version to the even more indulgent deep-fried variety. Here, we will uncover the myriad types of chicken and dumplings and provide a peek into the nuances of each one.

The most common type of chicken and dumpling is the one with which most are familiar: baked in the oven with a savory broth, and containing tender shredded chicken and soft, plump dumplings in every bite. But beyond this base-level dish, there are several variants, each of which can vary greatly in terms of ingredients and preparation.

One variation that has attained increasing popularity over the years is the Southern-style “chicken and biscuit” dumplings. Here, fluffy, buttery biscuits replace the classic noodles or dumplings, and the entire dish is simmered in a rich sauce of cream and herbs, making it far heartier than the standard version.

Another variation of note is the Italian-inspired “cacciatore con gnocchi”, which combines chicken with fluffy potato dumplings, often paired with vegetables such as mushrooms and onions. The sauce, while still savory, has a slightly sweeter flavor profile than the traditional version.

For those looking to indulge, deep-fried chicken and dumplings are a must-try. In this variant, strips of chicken are breaded and deep-fried, then served alongside savory, fried dumplings. The result? An indulgent, crunchy treat that hits all the right notes.

Finally, let’s not forget the vegetarian-friendly alternative: veggie and dumplings. For this delightful dish, vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash are cooked in a savory sauce, then topped with soft dumplings.

In conclusion, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the classic dish of chicken and dumplings. Whether one opts for the traditional version, or chooses to tiptoe into bolder territory with deep-fried or Italian-inspired variations, this comforting meal is sure to please.