Introduction

When the weather turns chilly or the day feels tough, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of old-fashioned homemade chicken and dumplings. This classic dish has been passed down through generations and remains a favorite in many households. It’s the kind of food that brings warmth to the heart and soul, offering a deliciously hearty combination of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and soft, pillowy dumplings swimming in a rich broth.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a cold winter’s day, or simply a craving for something hearty and homemade, chicken and dumplings have a timeless charm. This recipe gives you the best of both worlds—easy-to-make dumplings and a comforting chicken stew base that feels like a hug in a bowl.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making old-fashioned homemade chicken and dumplings, step by step. From the ingredients to the instructions, serving suggestions, and tips, you’ll have everything you need to recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make Old-Fashioned Homemade Chicken & Dumplings, you’ll need a mix of fresh, hearty ingredients to build the chicken stew and soft dumplings. The recipe is simple but yields big flavor, making it the perfect comfort meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs) – You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer.
• 1 medium onion – Chopped, for a savory base in the broth.
• 3 medium carrots – Sliced or chopped, adding natural sweetness and color to the dish.
• 2 celery stalks – Chopped, for flavor and texture.
• 4 cloves garlic – Minced, to add aromatic richness.
• 6 cups chicken broth – Homemade or store-bought, for a flavorful base.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the broth.
• 2 teaspoons salt – To season the broth to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground, for a bit of heat.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For a subtle herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – Adds flavor and a touch of color.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.

For the dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dumplings.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – To give the dumplings their light, fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – For seasoning the dumplings.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Cold and cut into small pieces, for tender dumplings.
• 3/4 cup whole milk – To bring the dumpling dough together.

With these simple ingredients, you can create a comforting, filling dish that will bring smiles to everyone at the table. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

Instructions

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