There is nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe to wrap you in cozy nostalgia with every bite. This hearty, soul-satisfying dish combines tender, flavorful chicken simmered in a fragrant broth with light, fluffy dumplings that soak up all the goodness. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a classic taste of home, this recipe celebrates simplicity and timeless flavors in the most delicious way possible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe plays an essential role, creating a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From aromatic herbs to fresh vegetables and pantry staples, these simple ingredients come together to make a dish that feels like a warm embrace.
- 1 lb bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The foundation of rich flavor and tender meat that pulls apart beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds subtle richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds color and natural sweetness to the soup base.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a fragrant, savory backbone for the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor with its aromatic intensity.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, for a rich and savory base.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives the broth a gentle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers a fragrant, pine-like note.
- 2 bay leaves: Enhance the broth’s subtle complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional): For a luscious, creamy finish that makes the soup extra indulgent.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for soft, pillowy dumplings.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors in the dumpling dough.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds subtle depth to the dumplings.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional): Gives a hint of herbaceous freshness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moisturizes and binds the dumpling dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to dumplings.
- 1 large egg: Binds dough ingredients for perfect texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds brightness and a fresh pop of color at serving.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your bone-in chicken pieces and cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. This browning is essential as it builds flavor right from the beginning. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside to be shredded later.
Step 2: Make the Soup Base
Using the same pot, toss in your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and begin to release their sweetness. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute—watch as the kitchen fills with an irresistible savory aroma. This step lays the groundwork for a broth packed with layers of flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, then nestle your browned chicken back into the pot. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat and letting it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the chicken to cook fully and infuses the broth with herbs and savory goodness.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Returning the shredded chicken to the flavorful broth is a cozy step that ensures you get tender morsels in every spoonful of your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe.
Step 5: Prepare the Dumplings
Now for the dumplings! In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried parsley. In another bowl, blend the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. The dough should be thick but not overworked to keep dumplings light and fluffy.
Step 6: Add and Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough carefully onto the simmering soup. Take your time to space them evenly so they cook perfectly. Cover the pot and let the dumplings simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, resisting the urge to lift the lid. This watchfulness pays off with dumplings that are puffed, tender, and utterly heavenly.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in that optional half cup of heavy cream for a luxuriously smooth texture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, ladle into bowls, and get ready to enjoy the warmth and comfort that only the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe can bring.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that not only adds a vibrant splash of color but also a fresh taste that cuts through the richness of the creamy broth. For an extra touch, a sprinkling of cracked black pepper or a tiny drizzle of melted butter can elevate your presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables creates a lovely balance. If you want more comforting vibes, serve alongside warm buttermilk biscuits or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that savory broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe in rustic bowls that showcase the fluffy dumplings atop the golden broth. You can also ladle the soup into mini casserole dishes and broil briefly for a slightly golden top—this adds a delightful twist on a beloved classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the dumplings from drying out or absorbing other odors.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but best done before adding the dumplings, as they tend to change texture when frozen. Freeze the broth and shredded chicken in separate containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely and prepare fresh dumplings to add just before serving.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the broth thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up. Adding a little fresh parsley when reheating helps brighten the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure it simmers evenly and retains the best texture in your Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe.
Is it okay to use store-bought broth?
Definitely. A good-quality store-bought chicken broth works perfectly and saves time. Just choose one that’s flavorful and low in sodium so you can adjust seasoning as needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Also, consider using plant-based milk and butter substitutes in the dumplings to keep it fully dairy-free.
How do I know when dumplings are cooked through?
Dumplings are done when they have puffed up significantly and feel firm to the touch but tender inside. Cooking with the lid on and not lifting it helps them rise beautifully without collapsing.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Feel free to customize! Peas, green beans, or even potatoes can be added for extra heartiness. Just chop them small enough to cook fully within the simmering time.
Final Thoughts
There is a special kind of joy that comes from making and sharing the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe—it’s the taste of comfort, warmth, and home all in one bowl. Whether you serve it up for a family dinner or a lazy weekend meal, I encourage you to try this timeless classic. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring smiles around your table.
Print
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe features tender chicken simmered in a flavorful herb-infused broth with fluffy, homemade dumplings. A comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners, combining savory vegetables, aromatic spices, and creamy richness for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the Soup Base: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then return the chicken to the pot.
- Simmer the Chicken: Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Prepare Dumpling Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
- Prepare Dumpling Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
- Make the Dumpling Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. The dough should be thick.
- Add the Dumplings to Soup: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering soup, spreading them evenly across the surface.
- Cook the Dumplings: Cover the pot and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed up and cooked through. Do not lift the lid during cooking to prevent deflation.
- Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream (if using) for a creamier soup.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting chicken and dumplings.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor, but skinless to reduce fat content.
- Do not lift the lid while dumplings are cooking to ensure they puff properly.
- Heavy cream is optional but adds a nice creamy texture.
- Fresh herbs may be used in place of dried, adjusting quantity accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
