Aunt Ethel'S Old Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings
Aunt Ethel's Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is a cherished comfort dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. The flavors of onion and celery enhance the hearty experience, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir flour, eggs, and oil together.
- Add a little ice water at a time until the mixture forms a ball.
- Sprinkle the ball with flour for easy handling and divide into 3 balls.
- Roll each ball out on a well-floured board until very thin.
- Cut into 2-inch squares and drop them in the simmering broth where the chicken was cooked.
- Ensure there is at least 2 quarts of broth.
- Repeat with each ball, rolling thin, cutting into squares, and dropping in the broth.
- Stir well and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add cut-up chicken.
- If the broth seems too thin, thicken it with a little flour dissolved in water.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a fresh, whole chicken for flavor and texture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute. Adding herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. To keep the dumplings light, avoid overworking the dough when rolling and cutting. For a variation, consider adding some vegetables like carrots or peas to the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Ethel's Chicken and Dumplings in deep bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mixed Greens for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider offering crusty bread or cornbread alongside. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, bringing warmth and comfort to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the dumplings from becoming overly dry. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the dumplings tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ethel'S Old Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings contains roughly 726 calories, with 12g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1396mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can either defrost it in the refrigerator overnight or use cold water to speed up the process. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I do if my broth is too salty?
If your broth ends up too salty, you can add a peeled potato to the pot while it simmers. The potato will absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, adding more water or low-sodium broth can help balance the flavors without compromising the overall dish.
How can I make the dumplings more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of the dumplings, consider adding herbs or spices directly into the dough, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried thyme. You can also mix in a bit of grated cheese for a richer taste. Experimenting with seasonings can elevate the dish even further.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).