Chicken With Cornmeal Dumplings
A hearty chicken and cornmeal dumpling stew featuring tender chicken and flavorful vegetables, complemented by savory cornmeal dumplings simmered to perfection, ideal for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put chicken and giblets in Dutch oven. Add carrots, onions, and salt to taste. Cover with water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Mix cornmeal, 1 teaspoon salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Beat eggs and milk together and add to the cornmeal mixture until the dough is stiff.
- Add more cornmeal if necessary to achieve the right consistency.
- Remove the chicken from the broth, but keep it warm.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough into the boiling broth. Cover lightly and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve the chicken with the cornmeal dumplings and vegetables together.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken first before adding it to the broth. If you don’t have cornmeal, you can substitute with a similar amount of all-purpose flour. Adjust the consistency of the dumplings as needed; they should be thick but spoonable. Adding herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish's flavor profile, similar to Smothered Chicken (Old-Fashioned Way).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken and cornmeal dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dumplings rubbery, so opt for the stove or oven for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Cornmeal Dumplings contains roughly 629 calories, with 19g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2491mg per serving (108% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like turkey or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the size and type of meat used to ensure it's cooked through. Keep in mind that different meats may impart different flavors to the broth.
What if I don't have milk for the dumplings?
If you don't have milk, you can use buttermilk, almond milk, or even water as a substitute. Just remember that using a non-dairy alternative may slightly change the flavor and texture, but your dumplings will still turn out delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the broth. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick. This addition can complement the flavors nicely, similar to certain American recipes.
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).