Homemade Chicken and Dumplings – A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
A warm bowl of chicken and dumplings is the perfect meal for a chilly day. This dish has been passed down for generations, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bowl. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy broth, and homemade dumplings makes it a true comfort food classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort Food – A hearty and satisfying meal perfect for cold weather.
- Rich, Homemade Flavor – Made from scratch using simple ingredients.
- Family-Friendly – A nostalgic dish that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Broth:
- 4 to 5 lb whole chicken
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 5 bay leaves
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Water (enough to cover the chicken)
For the Dumplings:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (add more for extra spice)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons water
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For Thickening the Broth:
- Heavy cream
- Cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken & Broth
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, add the whole chicken, diced onion, bay leaves, butter, salt, and pepper. Add enough water to fully cover the chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Partially cover and let it cook for about 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Once cool, pull the meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Remove the bay leaves from the broth and set the shredded chicken aside.
2. Make the Dumplings
While bringing the chicken stock back to a boil, prepare the dumplings.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the water and beaten eggs and mix thoroughly. Finally, stir in the vegetable oil. (It’s important to add the oil last to prevent hard bits in the dough.)
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until evenly mixed. Divide it in half, then roll each portion into a thin rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Using a pizza cutter, slice into ¾-inch wide strips, then cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces.
3. Cook the Dumplings & Finish the Dish
Drop the dumplings into the boiling broth, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Repeat with the remaining dough. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
To thicken the broth, mix cornstarch and heavy cream in a small container until smooth. Slowly pour it into the pot while stirring. Let it cook for another 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the broth to reach a rich, creamy consistency.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings
- Use a whole chicken – It adds incredible depth of flavor to the broth.
- Don’t overwork the dough – This keeps the dumplings tender.
- Stir gently – Prevent dumplings from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Perfect Occasions for This Dish
- Cold Winter Nights – A warming, satisfying meal.
- Family Dinners – Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
- Holiday Gatherings – A nostalgic dish everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
This homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s perfect for any home cook. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy.
