Neely's Chicken and Dumplings

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Are you looking for a comforting and hearty meal that will warm your soul?

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Neely's Chicken and Dumplings
Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
1 hr 25 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a very large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine chicken, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Ensure the ingredients are fully covered.

  2. Set the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

  3. *Cook's Note: For even cooking, it is recommended to poach the chicken on a low simmer and start with cold stock.

  4. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a 13 by 9-inch casserole dish and let it cool.

  5. Reserve the broth and discard the thyme and bay leaf.

  6. Once the chicken has cooled, shred it, ensuring to remove all meat from the bone. Discard the skin and bones.

  7. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Whisk the dry ingredients together.

  8. In a small saucepan, bring heavy cream, butter, and herbs to a low simmer. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir with a rubber spatula until well combined.

  9. Use your hands to form the dough into dumplings.

  10. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Saute until soft, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.

  11. Add the reserved broth and chicken to the Dutch oven with the

About this recipe

Are you looking for a comforting and hearty meal that will warm your soul? Look no further than Neely's Chicken and Dumplings. This classic dish is the epitome of comfort food, with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings that will leave you craving more. In this article, we will explore the history of chicken and dumplings, the secrets to making Neely's version, and answer some common questions about this beloved dish.

The History of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings have a long history that dates back to the early settlers of America. It was a way to stretch a small amount of meat into a filling and satisfying meal. The dumplings were made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt, and cooked in a flavorful broth with chicken. Over the years, variations of the dish have emerged, with different regions putting their own spin on the recipe.

Neely's Chicken and Dumplings: The Secret Recipe

Neely's Chicken and Dumplings is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in the Neely family. It is a combination of their Southern roots and their love for comforting meals. The secret to their delicious dish lies in the rich and flavorful broth. They start by simmering a whole chicken with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. This creates a base of flavors that infuses the entire dish.

The dumplings in Neely's recipe are light and fluffy, providing the perfect contrast to the savory broth. They are made with a simple mixture of flour, baking powder, salt, and milk. The dough is dropped into the simmering broth, where it cooks and absorbs the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

How to Make Neely's Chicken and Dumplings

Making Neely's Chicken and Dumplings is a labor of love, but it is well worth the effort. Start by simmering a whole chicken with vegetables to create a flavorful broth. Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.

While the broth simmers, prepare the dumplings by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and milk. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.

Serving Neely's Chicken and Dumplings

Neely's Chicken and Dumplings is best served hot, straight from the pot. Ladle the chicken, dumplings, and broth into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. The dish pairs well with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. It is the perfect meal for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use boneless chicken for Neely's Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. However, using bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth.

. Can I freeze Neely's Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze Neely's Chicken and Dumplings. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

. Can I add vegetables to Neely's Chicken and Dumplings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to Neely's Chicken and Dumplings. Some popular choices include peas, carrots, and celery.

. Can I use store-bought dumplings?

If you're short on time, you can use store-bought dumplings. However, homemade dumplings will provide the best flavor and texture.

. Can I make Neely's Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Neely's Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker. Simply follow the recipe as instructed, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

. Can I use chicken broth instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of making your own. However, making your own broth from scratch will give the dish a richer flavor.

. Can I use a gluten-free flour for the dumplings?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dumplings. Just make sure to check the consistency of the dough and adjust the liquid as needed.

. Can I add spices to Neely's Chicken and Dumplings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to Neely's Chicken and Dumplings to enhance the flavor.

In conclusion, Neely's Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless and comforting dish that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty meal. With its rich broth, fluffy dumplings, and tender chicken, it is a recipe that has stood the test of time. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, Neely's Chicken and Dumplings is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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

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