My Mom'S Great Chicken And Dumplings
A comforting Southern classic featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings with rich flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the sifted flour, salt, and baking powder in a mixing bowl.
- Work in the shortening until the mixture resembles a pie crust.
- Add milk and work with your hands until all ingredients are moist.
- Roll the dough out onto a floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness.
- Slice the dough into 2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your dumplings are light and fluffy, be careful not to overwork the dough after adding the milk. If you prefer a richer flavor, try substituting half of the Crisco with butter. For a twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the dough. Using buttermilk instead of regular milk can also add a nice tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Ritzi Broccoli to balance the richness of the dumplings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave individual portions, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mom'S Great Chicken And Dumplings contains roughly 397 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value) and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2461mg per serving (107% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. It’s best to use a mix of both for a lighter dumpling, or add a little extra baking powder to help them rise.
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal as they cook quickly and remain tender. You can also use leftover roasted chicken for a quicker preparation. Just ensure to shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broth in advance and store them separately. However, it's best to make the dumplings fresh right before serving to maintain their texture. Reheating them can lead to a gummy consistency.
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).