Old Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings
Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings offer tender chicken in a flavorful broth, complemented by soft, homemade dumplings—comfort food perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken, celery, onion, water, salt, and pepper in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, reserving the broth in the Dutch oven; discard the vegetables.
- Cool the chicken, then remove the bones and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Refrigerate the broth and chicken for 8 hours before proceeding.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the broth while simmering. If you prefer a lighter dumpling, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding for the best texture, and don't forget to reserve some broth for extra moisture in your dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken and dumplings with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. For a comforting dessert, consider pairing it with a slice of Hot Water Cocoa Cake for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through, making sure the dumplings remain tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings contains roughly 1680 calories, with 34g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken become tender. It may take a bit longer to simmer, so check for doneness before removing it from the pot.
What if I want to make this dish gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chicken and dumplings, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, check the baking soda for gluten-free certification. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious and comforting.
Can I add vegetables to the dumplings?
Absolutely! You can incorporate finely chopped spinach, carrots, or peas into the dumpling dough for added nutrition and flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it may affect the consistency of the dumplings.
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).