Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings Recipe from Southern USA | Ingredients: Chicken, Water, Butter, Flour, Milk, Vegetable Oil

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by generations. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth is sure to warm your soul.

History

Chicken and dumplings is a dish that has been enjoyed in the Southern United States for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the traditional British dish, chicken stew with dumplings. Over time, the recipe evolved to include ingredients commonly found in the Southern region, such as self-rising flour and buttermilk. Today, Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine.

Ingredients

2-3 chicken breasts (with bone and skin)
water
1 stick of butter
3 cups self-rising flour
1 cup milk
0.5 cup vegetable oil
salt and pepper, to taste

How to prepare

Place the chicken and butter in a Dutch oven and cover with water.
Boil on medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken, debone it, and pull it apart.
Return the chicken to the broth and set the heat to medium.
Place the flour in a large bowl and make a well in the middle.
Add the milk and vegetable oil.
Stir to make a firm dough.
Knead the dough a few times until it is no longer sticky. Add more flour, if necessary.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into strips.
Drop the dough into the broth.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for 10-15 minutes on low heat.

Variations

Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, and peas to the broth for added flavor and nutrition.
Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier flavor in the dumplings.
Add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the broth for extra depth of flavor.

Notes

Stir frequently
More water may be added to make a larger quantity without diluting flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use chicken breasts with bone and skin for the most flavorful broth.

- Debone and pull apart the chicken after it is cooked to ensure that the meat is tender and easy to eat.

- Make sure to roll out the dumpling dough thinly to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings hot with a side of green beans or collard greens for a complete Southern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the chicken with butter and water creates a flavorful broth that is the base of the dish.

- Rolling out the dumpling dough thinly ensures that it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken thighs or a whole chicken instead of chicken breasts.

- If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding baking powder and salt to all-purpose flour.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and broth ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the broth and add the dumplings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings in a large bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings with a glass of sweet tea or a cold glass of buttermilk for a true Southern experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings is a good source of iron, vitamin A, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and wheat (flour).

Summary

Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Southern Chicken 'n Dumplings is a classic Southern comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth, this dish is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy this hearty meal with loved ones for a taste of Southern hospitality.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the South. My mother had passed down her love of cooking to me, and I was always eager to learn new recipes and techniques.

One day, I was visiting a dear friend of my mother's, Mrs. Jenkins. She was known throughout the town for her delicious Southern cooking, and I was thrilled when she offered to teach me how to make her famous chicken 'n dumplings.

We spent the afternoon in her warm and cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of simmering broth and baking bread. Mrs. Jenkins showed me how to season the chicken, how to make the perfect dumpling dough, and how to simmer it all together until it was tender and flavorful.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The chicken was perfectly cooked and juicy, the dumplings were light and fluffy, and the broth was rich and savory. It was a meal that warmed both body and soul, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it for myself.

Over the years, I practiced and perfected the recipe, adding my own touches and variations to make it my own. I made it for my family on special occasions, and it became a beloved tradition in our home. Whenever I served it, the smiles and satisfied sighs from my loved ones made all the hard work worth it.

As I got older, I continued to learn new recipes and techniques from friends, family, and cookbooks. But there was something special about that day with Mrs. Jenkins and her chicken 'n dumplings. It was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to my past, to my roots, and to the traditions of the South.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and sounds of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, carries memories, and connects me to the people and places that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

And so, whenever I make my Southern chicken 'n dumplings, I think of Mrs. Jenkins and that day in her kitchen. I think of the love and care that went into teaching me that recipe, and I am reminded of the joy and comfort that good food can bring to those we love.

As I take a bite of the tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, I close my eyes and savor the flavors of the South. And I am grateful for all the recipes, stories, and memories that have brought me to this moment. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body - it is about nourishing the soul, and connecting us to the past, the present, and the future. And for that, I am eternally thankful.