Grandma's Chicken and Dumplings

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and nostalgia of Grandma's chicken and dumplings.

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Grandma's Chicken and Dumplings
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 hr 35 min
Total
4 hr 5 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. In a bowl, combine flour and shortening until it has a texture similar to cornmeal.

  2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat an egg and mix it with milk. Add this mixture to the flour and stir until it forms a dough ball.

  3. Place the dough ball on a floured surface. Knead and roll it as thin as possible using a floured rolling pin.

  4. Let the dough stand for 2 hours.

  5. In a large pot, place the chicken and add enough water to just cover it.

  6. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and continue boiling until the chicken is cooked through and the meat easily falls off the bone. This usually takes about 1 hour. Check the temperature of the thickest part of the thigh with an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

  7. Remove the chicken from the pot and strain the broth. Return the broth to the pot.

  8. Add 2 cups of water and bouillon to the pot. Remove the meat from the bones and return it to the broth.

  9. Add celery, carrots, and onions to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue boiling for 15 minutes.

  10. Meanwhile, cut the dough into approximately 1-inch wide strips. Tear the strips and drop them into the boiling broth.

  11. Boil for an additional 10 minutes.

  12. Season with salt and pepper, and serve

About this recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and nostalgia of Grandma's chicken and dumplings. The tender chicken, the fluffy dumplings, and the rich, savory broth all come together to create a meal that warms both the body and the soul. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this classic dish, its origins, and why it continues to be a favorite among generations.

The History of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings have a long and storied history, with variations of the dish appearing in different cultures around the world. However, it is believed that the dish as we know it today originated in the United States, particularly in the southern states.

Imagine a time when resources were scarce, and people had to make the most out of what they had. Chicken and dumplings became popular because they were affordable, easy to make, and incredibly filling. It was a way for families to stretch a small amount of chicken into a hearty meal that could feed everyone.

The Key to Grandma's Recipe

Grandma's chicken and dumplings were always a hit because she knew the secret to making them just right. The key was in the dumplings themselves. Grandma's dumplings were light and fluffy, almost like little clouds floating in the broth. She achieved this by using a combination of flour, baking powder, and milk to create a dough that would rise beautifully when cooked.

Another important element of Grandma's recipe was the broth. She would simmer the chicken for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, flavorful base for the dish. The result was a broth that was both comforting and nourishing.

The Perfect Comfort Food

What makes chicken and dumplings the ultimate comfort food? It's the way it warms you from the inside out, the way it brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. It's the feeling of sitting down to a bowl of steaming hot chicken and dumplings, taking that first spoonful, and feeling all your worries melt away.

Just like a warm hug from Grandma, chicken and dumplings provide a sense of comfort and familiarity. They remind us of simpler times and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

In Conclusion

Grandma's chicken and dumplings are more than just a meal – they're a taste of tradition and a reminder of the love that goes into homemade cooking. Whether you're making them from scratch or using a family recipe that's been passed down for generations, chicken and dumplings are sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use pre-packaged biscuit dough for the dumplings?

While you can use pre-packaged biscuit dough as a shortcut, it won't give you the same light and fluffy texture as homemade dumplings.

Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the broth and dumplings ahead of time and store them separately. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and cook the dumplings until they're done.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken and dumplings can be made with other meats like turkey or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze leftover chicken and dumplings?

Yes, leftover chicken and dumplings can be frozen for later. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Can I add vegetables to my chicken and dumplings?

Of course! Adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or celery can add extra flavor and nutrition to your dish. Just make sure to cook them until they're tender.

How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming dense?

The key to light and fluffy dumplings is to avoid overmixing the dough. Mix until just combined, and avoid kneading the dough too much.

Can I make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker. Just follow the recipe as usual, but cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.

What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?

Chicken and dumplings are a complete meal on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread for a heartier meal.

Can I make chicken and dumplings if I'm on a gluten-free diet?

Yes, you can make gluten-free chicken and dumplings by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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