As the first chill of autumn whispers through the trees, I find myself craving the warm, cozy embrace of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings. This dish not only transports me back to sun-kissed family gatherings but also fills my kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of savory herbs and tender chicken. With easy prep and oh-so-comforting flavors, it’s the perfect antidote to a long day or a chilly evening. Picture fluffy dumplings bobbing in a creamy, rich broth, mingling with vibrant veggies and succulent chicken—what more could you ask for? Ready to recreate this nostalgic classic that’s sure to comfort your loved ones? Let’s dive into the heart of comfort food together!

Why is this Chicken and Dumplings special?

Comforting and cozy, this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings. Homemade dumplings are fluffy and light, soaking up the rich, creamy broth beautifully. Easy and quick to prepare, it’s an ideal dish that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone. Crowd-pleasing, it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Eager for more comforting chicken dishes? Check out my Slow Cooker Chicken or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps that are sure to impress!

Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth

Chicken (2 lbs boneless, skinless breasts/thighs) – The star of the dish that delivers protein and flavor; turkey can be a lighter substitute.
Chicken Broth (5-6 cups) – Forms the base of the creamy sauce; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp, divided) – Adds richness and helps brown the chicken; swap with butter for a more indulgent taste.
Butter (2 tbsp) – Enriches the flavor profile when sautéing vegetables.

For the Vegetables

Carrots (2 large) – Bring sweetness and vibrant color; parsnips or sweet potatoes can be fun alternatives.
Celery (2 stalks) – Contributes a lovely aromatic quality; consider leeks for a twist.
Onion (1 large) – Essential for a solid flavor foundation; shallots can provide a milder undertone.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds depth and aroma to the broth.

For the Dumplings

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups total) – Thickens the broth and forms delicious dumplings; gluten-free flour is an easy substitute.
Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Essential for fluffy dumplings; don’t skip this step!
Buttermilk (3/4 cup) – Keeps the dumplings moist and tender; a mix of milk and vinegar can work too.
Eggs (2) – Provide structure and moisture to the dumplings.

For Flavoring the Dish

Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp) – Imparts an earthy essence; fresh thyme can elevate the flavor even more.
Bay Leaves (2) – Infuse the broth with a hint of herbal goodness; be sure to remove before serving!
Frozen Peas (1 1/2 cups, thawed) – Offer pops of sweetness and color; fresh peas or even green beans could work as well.
Salt (1/2 tsp plus Kosher salt/pepper, to taste) – Enhances the flavors throughout; adjust according to personal taste.
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – Provides a luscious creaminess to the broth; coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re just a whisk away from bringing the warmth of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings into your kitchen. Let’s stir up some cozy comfort together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by seasoning 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken with salt and pepper. Toss the chicken with 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour until evenly coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown it for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden. Remove the chicken and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 2 large chopped carrots, 2 chopped celery stalks, and 1 large chopped onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are softened and fragrant, creating a delicious foundation for your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 3: Create Broth
Next, pour in 5-6 cups of chicken broth to the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the dried thyme and bay leaves, then add the browned chicken back into the pot. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a light simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it gently cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finally, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 1/2 cups of thawed frozen peas, stirring well to combine.

Step 4: Make Dumplings
While the broth is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a separate bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of buttermilk and 2 eggs until smooth. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain fluffiness in your dumplings.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the bubbling broth, ensuring they float on top. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the dumplings cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes. This gentle cooking will allow the dumplings to rise and become fluffy, soaking up the savory goodness of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
After 15 minutes, check the dumplings for doneness; they should look puffy and spring back when lightly pressed. Remove the bay leaves and taste the broth, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the warm, comforting Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and revel in the cozy flavors of this timeless dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and broth up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe through Step 3, then allow the broth to cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. To maintain the creamy richness, avoid adding the heavy cream and frozen peas until you’re ready to finish the dish. When it’s time to serve, reheat the broth gently on the stovetop, stir in the cream and peas, and proceed with making the dumplings fresh. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready with minimal effort after a busy day!

Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own and explore delightful twists that excite your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free option that adds a slight sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil instead of thyme for a refreshing and fragrant twist in the broth.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the broth for a warming heat that compliments the creamy texture beautifully.
Heartier Dumplings: Mix in cooked, diced potatoes into the dumpling batter for added substance and a comforting heartiness with every bite.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with hearty mushrooms and boost the broth with extra vegetables to craft a satisfying vegetarian version.
Flavorful Broth: Incorporate a splash of white wine or sherry into the broth for an extra layer of depth and flavor that elevates the dish.
Alternative Veggies: Swap out frozen peas for green beans or corn, providing pops of sweetness and color that brighten up the classic dish.

As you experiment, don’t forget to try pairing your meal with something light, perhaps a refreshing side salad, to round out the comfort of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings! Would you enjoy flavorful alternatives like Bang Bang Chicken or oven-baked Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings? Enjoy making it your own!

Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Avoid Tough Dumplings: Be gentle when mixing the dumpling batter; overmixing can lead to dense, tough dumplings.
Broth Consistency: Adjust the amount of chicken broth for your desired thickness; more broth yields a soupier dish, while less creates a richer sauce in your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings.
Simmer Carefully: Keep the broth at a gentle simmer to ensure dumplings cook evenly without falling apart. Too vigorous a boil can break them down.
Ingredient Substitution: Don’t hesitate to switch up vegetables or use a different protein like turkey. This allows for personal customization to suit your taste!
Make-Ahead: While the dumplings are best freshly made, you can prepare the broth and chicken a day in advance; just reheat before adding dumplings right before serving.
Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with fresh herbs or spices, like rosemary or dill, to elevate the flavor profile of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, offering a fresh twist on a classic dish.

What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings?

Warm up your dinner table with perfect pairings that complement this nostalgic comfort food.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness adds a crunchy contrast that’ll have you wiping your plate clean.
Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing mix of greens and tangy vinaigrette brightens up the meal and balances the rich broth.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes provide a delightful sweetness and texture. The colors are sure to amaze!
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a cool and crunchy balance, making each warming bite even more comforting.
Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread absorbs the creaminess of the broth, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes as a side dish. They’ll delightfully soak up the extra broth!
Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-spiced dessert topped with ice cream brings a sweet finish to your comforting meal. I promise, it’s an unforgettable combo.
Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, pairs beautifully with the heartiness of the chicken and dumplings.
Moscato Wine: A light, fruity wine like Moscato enhances the savory flavors of the dish and keeps the vibe cozy.

With these delightful options, you’re poised to create an unforgettable dining experience that your loved ones will cherish!

Storage Tips for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help retain the delicious, comforting flavors of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help restore creaminess and prevent the dumplings from drying out.
Avoiding Texture Changes: Keep in mind that reheated dumplings may lose some fluffiness, so enjoy them fresh whenever possible!

Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For an Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings dish, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 2 lbs) ensures tender and juicy meat. If freshness is your focus, choose chicken that is firm to the touch with no dark spots or discoloration, which signifies freshness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey is a wonderful substitute that works beautifully in this comforting dish.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After enjoying your delicious chicken and dumplings, make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days, retaining that comforting flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the dumplings from turning tough or rubbery!

Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
I recommend it! To freeze your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, portion them into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and keep them sealed tightly. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore the creamy texture.

What should I do if my dumplings turn out tough?
Ah, that can be a common issue! If your dumplings end up tough, it’s usually a result of overmixing the batter. To achieve perfect, fluffy dumplings, mix your wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Also, make sure to avoid boiling the broth vigorously while the dumplings are cooking. A gentle simmer will puff them up beautifully without breaking them apart.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re serving anyone with dietary restrictions, this meal can be easily tailored. To make it gluten-free, simply swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. For lactose intolerance, you can replace heavy cream with coconut cream, and buttermilk can be substituted with a mixture of non-dairy milk and vinegar. Always keep an eye on any allergies—especially if you’re using substitutions!