Delicious and Creamy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Listen up, folks! Today, I’m going to share with you a recipe that will knock your socks off – Better Than Granny’s and Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe.
I’m sure you have tasted chicken dumplings before, but hold your horses, because this recipe is nothing like the others. This dish is full of rich and savory flavors, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Now, let me tell you why this recipe is worth your while. Not only is it easy to make, it’s also better than your granny’s old fashioned chicken dumplings recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later.
This recipe packs a punch in every bite, from the juicy chicken to the fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. It’s southern style chicken at its finest – hearty and soul-warming.
So why waste your time waiting for great food when you can make it yourself? Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: It’s the middle of the week, and you’re feeling overwhelmed. You want something comforting and easy to make for dinner. Look no further because I have got the perfect recipe for you – Chicken and Dumplings!
Why will you love this recipe?
Firstly, it’s super easy to make, even for beginners in the kitchen! All you have to do is stir together your ingredients, let them simmer, and then add your dumplings. Simple as that!
Not only is it easy, but it’s so incredibly tasty too. This dish is perfect for cold winter nights or whenever you need a taste of comfort food.
And don’t even get me started on how versatile it is! You can easily customize this recipe to your liking with substitutions or additions such as bacon, thyme, or vegetables like carrots and peas.
Plus, this recipe has been crafted to be better than Granny’s chicken and dumplings – yes, that’s right – better than Granny’s. We’ve combined old-fashioned flavors with a touch of something new to make a savory dish that will leave you feeling like a Southern belle or beau.
So there you have it folks – an easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home. With its simple preparation, comforting taste, and versatility, this dish will leave everyone singing its praises. Give it a try today and thank me later – bon appétit!
Ingredient List
Here are the essential ingredients you need for this Better Than Granny’s and Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe:
- 3-4 boneless chicken thighs or 2-3 shredded chicken breasts
- 2 (10-ounce) cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of chicken broth or 1 bouillon cube dissolved in 1 cup of water
- 2 cups of milk
- ½ teaspoon of poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon of pepper
- Dumplings recipe (see subsection below)
Note that you can use either boneless chicken thighs or shredded chicken breasts for this recipe. I personally prefer using thighs as they deliver more flavor to the dish, but breasts work well too. You will also need to get some cream of chicken soup, which will add creaminess and depth to the sauce. For the dumplings, follow the recipe below. It’s very easy!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to put them together and create this delicious better than granny’s and easy chicken and dumplings recipe.
Step 1: Boil the Chicken
Start by boiling 3-4 chicken thighs in a large pot filled with 8 cups of chicken broth. Add a pinch of poultry seasoning and a pinch of pepper to taste. Cover the pot, and let the chicken boil for about 45 minutes or until it is cooked all the way through.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot using tongs, and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into small, bite-sized pieces. Discard any bones or extra fat.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
Next, make your homemade chicken dumplings by mixing together 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a large bowl. Slowly pour in 1 cup of cool water while stirring the mixture with a fork until it forms a sticky dough.
Step 4: Create Your Soup Base
Add back your shredded chicken into your now empty pot along with two [10-ounce cans] of cream chicken soup, one [14.5-ounce can] of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of chicken bouillon, 2 cups of water, and [½ teaspoon] each of pepper and poultry seasoning. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Drop In Your Dumplings
Grab your dumpling mixture from step three and use two spoons to scoop out small spoonfuls (about half the size of a ping pong ball) and drop them in your soup mixture until you have used all your dumpling mix.
Turn heat down to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid not completely sealed so steam can escape, then let everything simmer gently for about [15-20 minutes]. Do not lift the lid during this period as this might cause enough heat loss that it will stop cooking any remaining dumplings.
Step 6: Test Your Dumplings
Take one dumpling out with tongs then test one to see if they’re done by cutting through it with a fork or knife. If no raw dough is visible inside they are done. If you see any raw dough inside continue simmering for another five minutes.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Once ready to serve, ladle steaming-hot mixture into bowls, ideally with several chunks of chicken and at least two dumplings each serving., Enjoy your homemade slow cooker or crockpot chicken and flat southern-style dumplings hot garnished with some chopped parsley if desired.
This recipe can also be made with shredded turkey instead of chicken for Another variation of this recipe that is just as delicious!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to put a twist on this classic recipe, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try.
Firstly, if you’re not a fan of chicken, you can switch it out for another type of meat like beef or turkey. You’ll just need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
If you prefer your dumplings to have a fluffier texture, try using self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will give your dough a little extra lift and create light and airy dumplings.
For those looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but it’s still delicious.
If you want to add some vegetables to the mix, feel free to toss in some carrots, celery or peas to your chicken broth. This will give your dish an extra burst of flavor and add some nutritional value.
Another variation is swapping out the classic drop dumplings for flat dumplings. All you have to do is roll out your dough and cut it into strips before adding it to the chicken broth. This is perfect for those who prefer their dumplings less doughy.
Finally, if you’re looking for a hands-off approach, try making this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. Your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of homemade chicken dumplings in no time.
No matter which substitutions or variations you choose, this old-fashioned southern style chicken dumplings recipe is sure to hit the spot. Bon appétit!
Serving and Pairing
“This chicken and dumplings recipe is a meal that screams comfort, and it deserves to be served in the warmest company. Gather around the table with loved ones and get ready to taste each bite of southern heaven.
The creamy texture of this homemade chicken and dumplings menu should be paired with warmth and an intimate ambiance. I suggest some candles, dimmed lights, and slow music to add to the overall experience.
When it comes to pairing, you will want to choose something that complements the flavors and texture of your meal. A refreshing salad loaded with veggies, dressed with a vinaigrette is an excellent side dish choice for those seeking a lighter complement.
Alternatively, if you’re craving something more on the hearty side, warm biscuits or cornbread alongside melted butter in dip bowls will accentuate the flavors of southern-style cuisine perfectly.
You could also serve this dish with some mashed potatoes or greens beans for a satisfying southern-style meal.
Don’t forget about using your favorite glassware for drinks! Sweet tea, soda or lemonade will finish off it off perfectly.
At your next dinner party, impress your guests with this delectable recipe as their main entree. Bon appétit!”
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Listen up, folks! I’m here to whisper some secrets on how to make this recipe ahead of time, store it like a pro and reheat it just right. Trust me, I’ve made this dish countless times, and I know a thing or two about making it ahead.
First thing’s first: you can make the chicken dumplings ahead of time and store them separately from the broth. Store the dumplings in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, bring the broth to a boil, drop the dumplings in and continue cooking as described in Step 5.
Now, let’s talk about storing leftovers. If there are any left– which is doubtful, but just in case–, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen up the thickened sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish.
But here’s another idea for those of you who are looking for convenience: freeze individual portions of chicken dumplings and reheat them whenever hunger strikes. Simply scoop 1-2 cups of chicken dumplings into freezer-safe bags, seal them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat on your stove top or microwave.
But wait, there’s more! If you own a slow cooker, feel free to use it instead of a Dutch oven or a pot on your stove top. Simply follow steps 1 to 4 as usual, then transfer everything (including the raw chicken thighs) into your slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Shred the chicken with two forks and proceed with step 5.
Now that we’ve covered all your options for making ahead, storing and reheating this recipe let me tell you; trust me when I say that whenever you reheat these hearty dumplings, their southern flavors will come together so deliciously that might think they taste even better than when freshly cooked!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that we’ve covered the basics of this easy chicken and dumplings recipe, it’s time to focus on how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. With a few extra tips and tricks, you can impress your guests with a flavorful and comforting meal that tastes like it came straight from Granny’s kitchen.
1. Use Homemade Chicken Broth
To achieve the best possible flavor in your chicken and dumplings, it’s essential to use homemade chicken broth rather than store-bought. You can easily prepare this at home by simmering chicken parts with water, vegetables, and seasoning for several hours until the liquid is rich and flavorful.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
When making your dumplings, be careful not to overwork the dough as doing so can make them tough and chewy. Instead, gently mix the flour mixture with liquid until it forms a soft dough, then knead briefly before cutting into strips or balls.
3. Add Dumplings Slowly
When adding your dumplings to the pot, do so slowly to avoid crowding them together. This will allow them to cook evenly and prevent them from sticking together or falling apart while cooking.
4. Use Dark Meat for Best Results
For the most flavorful chicken meat in your stew, use dark meat such as chicken thighs instead of white meat which can become dry and flavorless when cooked for an extended amount of time.
5. Adjust Thickness of Gravy
To adjust the thickness of your gravy, add a little flour mixed with water to thicken or more broth to thin it out according to your preference.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to create a delicious pot of easy homemade chicken and dumplings that will please even the pickiest eaters at your party!
FAQ
Before we wrap up, let’s go over some frequently asked questions about this Better Than Granny’s and Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe. I’ve compiled a list of the common queries so you can enjoy your poultry seasoning infused dumplings without any hiccups.
What is a good thickener for chicken and dumplings?
When it comes to preparing a delicious chicken and dumplings dish, using cornstarch is an excellent option for achieving the desired thicker texture. To do so, simply combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 cup of cool water and stir the mixture well. Once the soup has been brought back to a good boil, gradually add in the cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously. This will effectively thicken the soup and take your dish to the next level.
What is the difference between southern and northern chicken and dumplings?
There are two types of dumplings – southern and northern. Southern dumplings use shortening and are cooked by simmering them in the broth. On the other hand, northern dumplings, also known as butter dumplings, are not necessarily from the north, but are steamed on top of the pot and are made with butter.
Why are my dumplings hard and not fluffy?
One important point to keep in mind while cooking dumplings is that overcooking them can lead to tough and hard dumplings. It is crucial to avoid leaving them in a heated environment such as hot liquid or a covered pot after they have finished cooking, as this can cause the dumplings to shrink and become hard.
How do you keep dumplings from falling apart in chicken and dumplings?
When preparing chicken dumplings, the correct balance of flour is key to ensure their texture is neither too tough nor too crumbly. It is essential to exercise caution when mixing the dough to avoid overworking it, which can result in tough and unappetizing dumplings.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you want a comforting and delicious meal that is sure to impress your guests, then this Better Than Granny’s and Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is for you! By following my detailed instructions and tips, you can create a Southern-style chicken dish that will make your taste buds sing. Whether it’s a special occasion or just an ordinary weeknight dinner, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
So why not give it a try today? With ingredients like chicken broth, homemade chicken dumplings, and delicious poultry seasoning, this recipe is packed full of flavor. Plus, with the variety of substitutions and variations available, you can customize the recipe to your own taste preferences.
And don’t worry about the dumplings falling apart or being tough to make – I’ve got you covered with my helpful tips on achieving perfectly fluffy dumplings. Finally, if you’re short on time or want to prep ahead of time, there are handy instructions for making this dish in a slow cooker or crockpot.
So go ahead and get cooking – I guarantee you won’t regret it. Just remember one thing: as they say in the South, “there’s no better belly filler than a bowl of chicken and dumplings”. Bon appétit!
Better Than Granny’s and Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotisserie-cooked chicken (cooked, pulled off bones)
- 4 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth
- 2 (10 1/2 ounce) cans cream of celery soup
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 (10 count) can buttermilk biscuits
Instructions
- In large pot, bring chicken, broth, soup, pepper and poultry seasoning to a boil.
- Then reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes.
- In the meantime, lightly flour a piece of waxed paper and a rolling pin (or a round drinking glass works). Also lay out a clean piece of waxed paper to put on after rolling.
- Take two biscuits and roll out in circle to 1/8 inch thickness. Lay them on the other piece of waxed paper.
- Repeat with all biscuits. Then take a knife and slice the circles into one inch strips.
- Bring pot back to a low boil. Pick up each strip and pull into 1 1/2 to 2 inch pieces and drop into broth on low boil.
- Stir gently to prevent them sticking together.
- Simmer for ten minutes.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!