Introduction to Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Why Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings Makes the Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns brisk and the days grow shorter, there’s truly nothing like a warm bowl of Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. This dish is a cherished staple in many homes, renowned for its rich, creamy texture and heartwarming flavors.
Picture this: tender pieces of chicken simmered in a luscious homemade broth, accompanied by fluffy dumplings that feel like a friendly embrace. It’s the quintessential comfort food, embodying the care and love often found in family traditions. Whether it’s a Sunday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this meal provides sustenance – both physically and emotionally.
According to a survey by the National Chicken Council, chicken meals are the preferred choice for many Americans seeking comfort. That’s where Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings shines the brightest—it effortlessly brings people together around the table.
So, why not roll up your sleeves and bring a taste of the South to your kitchen? With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience your family will cherish for years to come.
Ingredients for Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Creating a delightful bowl of Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
Homemade Chicken Broth
To achieve a rich and flavorful broth, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 split chicken breasts or 1 whole chicken for a deeper flavor.
- 4 quarts water to cover the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 onion, quartered to infuse sweetness.
- 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks cut into large chunks for depth of flavor.
- A head of garlic, halved, adds aromatic warmth.
- 2 bay leaves, and poultry seasoning for an herby base.
- Kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg to taste.
Dumpling Ingredients
Crafting tender dumplings relies on these essentials:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour for the base.
- Cold butter (2 tablespoons, cubed) creates flakiness.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon) for lightness.
- 1 cup reserved chicken broth (cooled) to bind the ingredients.
- Kosher salt and black pepper to complement the flavors.
Finished Soup Ingredients
Finally, complete your soup with:
- 10 to 12 cups of chicken broth (reserve 1 cup for dumplings).
- 1 cup diced onion and 1 cup diced celery for texture.
- 1 clove minced garlic for additional richness.
- Kosher salt and black pepper to adjust seasoning.
- 4 to 6 cups of cooked chicken, shredded for heartiness.
- 2 cups half-and-half for that creamy comfort.
With these ingredients, you'll be on your way to making a soul-soothing dish that reminds you of home! Ready to dive into making your Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings? Learn more about making broth here.
Preparing Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
When you think of comfort food, nothing quite matches the heartwarming vibe of Southern style chicken and dumplings. This dish is an aromatic blend of rich flavors, fluffy dumplings, and tender chicken—perfect for making any meal feel special. Let’s break down the process step-by-step, ensuring you achieve that warm, cozy taste that evokes memories of family gatherings.
Make the Homemade Chicken Broth
The foundation of your Southern style chicken and dumplings is a homemade chicken broth. Start by gathering the following ingredients:
- Chicken: 6 split chicken breasts or 1 whole chicken
- Vegetables: Onion, carrots, celery, and garlic
- Seasonings: Bay leaves, poultry seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg
- Place your chicken into a large pot and cover it with 4 quarts of water.
- Add the quartered onion, large chunks of carrots and celery, halved garlic, and seasonings.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
- After simmering, remove the chicken, let it cool, and strain the broth into a separate pot. You’ll want about 10 cups of this savory liquid!
Prepare the Dumpling Dough
While the broth is simmering, it’s time to whip up the dumplings that will soak up all those delicious flavors:
- Ingredients: Flour, cold butter, baking powder, reserved chicken broth, kosher salt, and black pepper
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut the cold butter into the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually stir in 1 cup of the reserved cooled chicken broth until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough onto a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness and cut into 1½ to 2-inch squares. Keep them floured to avoid sticking!
Cook the Soup and Dumplings
Now comes the best part—combining all your efforts!
- Bring your strained broth back to a boil and add diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Once the broth is bubbling, gently drop the dumplings in, ensuring they submerge. Cover the pot and let them cook for about 20 minutes. As they cook, the broth will thicken into a creamy consistency.
- Stir in half-and-half for a luscious finish, and add in your cooked chicken. Adjust your seasonings to taste.
Serve and Enjoy the Comfort
When your Southern style chicken and dumplings are ready, it’s time to dig in!
- Ladle the warm mixture into deep bowls and serve hot.
- Consider pairing it with a simple green salad or some fresh cornbread for a complete meal.
Whether it's a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Need tips on what to pair it with? Check out recipes for sides that complement this classic meal or explore more Southern* favorites! Enjoy your homemade comfort and the compliments that will surely follow!
Variations on Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Alternate Chicken Cuts
While traditional Southern style chicken and dumplings often call for chicken breasts, consider using bone-in, skin-on thighs for a richer flavor. Thighs bring moisture and tenderness that elevate the dish, making every bite delicious. Alternatively, mix different cuts like chicken drumsticks or even rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising that classic comfort.
Lighter Dumpling Options
If you’re looking to lighten up your meal, try incorporating self-rising flour for your dumplings instead of all-purpose flour. This adjustment can yield a fluffier texture while reducing fat. For a healthier twist, consider making dumplings with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a base. These substitutions keep the comfort while being a bit kinder to your waistline!
For more inspiration on chicken adaptations, check out Bon Appétit.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Using a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
Cooking Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker or Instant Pot can save you time without sacrificing flavor. For the slow cooker, simply add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re using an Instant Pot, pressure cook for 20 minutes, then follow up with sautéing the dumplings. These methods yield tender chicken and a rich broth, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Adjusting Flavor Profiles
Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings in your Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce can brighten the flavors incredibly. Consider using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added depth. It’s all about balancing comfort with your personal taste. Feel free to mix it up—explore those flavors!
Serving Suggestions for Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Pairing with Sides and Breads
When serving Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings, consider pairing it with classic sides for a comforting meal. Cornbread is a beloved choice, as its sweetness complements the dish's savory flavors. A fresh green salad adds a bit of crunch and balance, while sautéed greens like collard or mustard greens bring that delicious Southern touch. For a heartier option, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to soak up the delightful broth.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are not just a bonus but another meal to savor! Store your Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it—just remember that the dumplings may become a bit softer upon reheating. You can reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it gets too thick. Enjoy your meal again and again!
Feel free to enhance your meal experience by checking out more ideas on Southern cooking from Southern Living or exploring tips on food storage at The Spruce Eats.
Time Breakdown for Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Preparation Time
Getting started on your Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings will take about 30 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and preparing the chicken and vegetables.
Cook Time
Once you're prepped, it’s time to cook! The total cook time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes simmering the broth and allowing those dumplings to puff up perfectly.
Total Time
In just 1 hour and 45 minutes, you’ll have a big pot of Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings ready to enjoy! Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish truly warms the soul.
By breaking down the time, you'll see how easy it is to create a delicious, rich dish full of homemade flavor. For even quicker options, consider using a slow cooker or Instant Pot—both methods are outlined in the full recipe!
Nutritional Facts for Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Calories
Each serving of Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings contains approximately 463 calories. This makes it a hearty meal, perfect for satisfying your hunger on a chilly evening.
Protein
With about 49 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a great way to fuel your day. The chicken not only adds delicious flavor but also packs in a substantial amount of protein, keeping you feeling full and energized.
Sodium
One serving has around 1,731 mg of sodium. While this adds to the savory taste, it's important to be mindful of your sodium intake, especially if you're watching your salt levels. You can always adjust the seasoning to create a lighter version of this comforting favorite.
For more detailed nutritional information and tips on how to modify recipes for health, check out Healthline's Nutrition page. Cooking should be enjoyable and nourishing, so feel free to experiment while making this comforting favorite!
FAQs about Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use store-bought broth?
Absolutely! If you're pressed for time, using store-bought chicken broth is a great shortcut. Just make sure to choose a low-sodium option so you can better control the seasoning of your Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings. If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice to brighten it up.
What if my dumplings turn out too dense?
Dense dumplings can happen for a couple of reasons. Ensure you’re not overmixing the dough; a few gentle folds are enough to combine ingredients. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh—this is key for fluffiness! If they still turn out dense, try using self-rising flour next time, which can create a lighter texture.
How do I add more veggies to the dish?
Adding more vegetables is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and flavor in your Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings. Carrots, peas, and green beans work wonderfully. Simply sauté them along with the onions and celery at the beginning for an extra pop of color and taste. You might even consider spinach or kale for a healthy twist!
Conclusion on Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
In summary, Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a dish; it's a warm embrace that brings family and friends together. With its rich flavors and heartwarming essence, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. So gather around the table and savor every comforting bite!
Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- Chef Knife
- cutting board
- Dutch oven
- rolling pin
- Pizza cutter
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
Homemade Chicken Broth
- 6 pieces split chicken breasts
- 4 quarts water
- 1 whole onion, quartered
- 2 pieces carrots, cut into large chunks
- 1 head garlic, halved
- 2 stalks celery cut into large chunks
- 2 leaves bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Dumplings
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup reserved chicken broth, cooled
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Finished Soup
- 10 to 12 cups chicken broth, reserve 1 cup for dumplings
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 to 6 cups cooked chicken, coarsely chopped
- 2 cups half-and-half
Instructions
Make the Chicken Broth
- Place the chicken in a large soup pot and cover with water.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is very tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
- Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into a clean stockpot, discarding the solids.
- Bring the strained broth to a boil, then lower the heat and reduce it until about 10 cups remain.
Prepare the Dumplings
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the reserved 1 cup of cooled chicken broth and mix until the dough forms a ball.
- On a heavily floured work surface, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into 1½ to 2-inch squares.
- Place the dumplings on a floured plate, dusting the tops generously with flour to prevent sticking.
Cook the Soup and Dumplings
- Bring the finished broth to a rolling boil.
- Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic. Reduce to a low boil and cook for 10 minutes.
- Return the broth to a rolling boil. Drop the dumplings in one at a time, allowing them to sink before adding more.
- Reduce the heat to medium-high, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let the dumplings cook at a medium boil for about 20 minutes.
- Stir in the half-and-half and bring to a low boil. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- If the soup is too thin, make a slurry by whisking together 4 tablespoons flour with 4 tablespoons water until smooth. Stir it into the soup a little at a time until the desired thickness is reached. Let cook for 1-2 minutes after adding.
- Stir in the chopped cooked chicken and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
- Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!
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