Biscuit Dumplings
Biscuit dumplings with tender chicken create a comforting, savory dish perfect for family dinners and chilly evenings, combining flaky dough and hearty poultry flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add milk gradually, mixing to form a soft dough; add more milk if necessary.
- Roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 1-inch squares, strips, or diamonds.
- Drop dumplings into boiling chicken stock.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook the chicken until tender, then remove from bones.
- Add cooked chicken meat to the dumplings while simmering.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. You can also substitute butter for shortening for a different texture. If you prefer a herbaceous touch, add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the dry ingredients. Ensure the chicken stock is well-seasoned to enhance the overall taste of the dumplings, as they absorb much of the broth's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the biscuit dumplings alongside a fresh salad, such as California Cobb Salad, for a balanced meal. They also pair well with steamed vegetables or a hearty soup, like Wisconsin Cheese Soup, to create a comforting dinner experience. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken stock to prevent drying out. Avoid boiling them again as this can make them tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Biscuit Dumplings contains roughly 70 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1616mg per serving (70% 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 make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to roll and cut them just before cooking to maintain their freshness. If you make them ahead, ensure they are stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
What can I use if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. This will give the dumplings a slightly different flavor and texture but will still yield delicious results. Alternatively, coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
How do I know when the dumplings are done cooking?
The dumplings are done when they have doubled in size and are firm to the touch. They should not be doughy in the center. Cooking for 15 minutes is usually sufficient, but you can check one by cutting it in half to ensure it's fully cooked.
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).