Grace'S Easy Chicken And Dumplings
A comforting Southern classic featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken in 4 quarts of water with salt until the meat is falling off the bones.
- Debone and deskin the chicken, then cook the broth down to about 2 quarts.
- Add butter and margarine to the hot broth.
- Prepare the biscuits by opening the cans and cutting each into quarters.
- Mix the self-rising flour and milk to make a dough.
- Drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering broth and cook until they are fluffy and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or bay leaves while boiling the chicken. If you don't have Butter-Me-Not biscuits, any flaky biscuit dough will work, or you can use homemade dough with baking powder. For a twist, add vegetables like carrots or peas to the broth for added nutrition and flavor. This dish is great for using up leftover chicken as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve with warm Butter Crackers on the side for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may make the dumplings tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grace'S Easy Chicken And Dumplings contains roughly 879 calories, with 7g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2010mg per serving (87% 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 chicken?
Yes, you can use any chicken parts you prefer, such as thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in pieces will provide more flavor, while boneless options will cook faster. Ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and broth in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and drop in the biscuit pieces to cook fresh. This method maintains the dumplings' fluffiness and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and broth mixture without the dumplings. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, then add freshly made dumplings for the best texture.
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).