Sister Lester'S Chicken And Dumplings
Sister Lester's Chicken and Dumplings offer tender chicken simmered with savory broth, paired with soft, comforting dumplings—perfect for hearty family meals and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cooking hen
- 1 Tbsp salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Add 1 tablespoon salt to the water of the cooking hen.
- Cook the hen until the meat falls off the bone; then let it cool.
- Remove the chicken from the bone.
- Take out 2 cups of broth for mixing the dumplings.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or bay leaves to the cooking hen. If you don't have a cooking hen, a whole chicken works as a substitute, though you may need to adjust the cooking time. If you prefer a quicker version, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and add it to the broth with dumplings. For a heartier dish, incorporate vegetables like carrots or peas into the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sister Lester's Chicken and Dumplings in deep bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the delicious broth. A glass of sweet iced tea complements this dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent the dumplings from becoming dry. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and dumplings, which can last up to 2-3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's important to thaw it completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps to achieve the tender texture you want. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave, but avoid cooking from frozen as it may result in uneven cooking.
What type of dumplings should I use?
You can use homemade dumplings or store-bought varieties. If making from scratch, a simple biscuit dough works well. For a lighter option, consider using drop dumplings made from flour, baking powder, milk, and butter. Adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring they are cooked through and fluffy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Chicken and Dumplings, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the broth. You can also add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dumpling mixture for an extra kick. Just be sure to balance the spice level to your taste.
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).