Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Servings: 4 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner
A Timeless Comfort Dish
Bowl of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings garnished with herbs pinit
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<p>There's something timeless and heartwarming about a pot of old-fashioned chicken and dumplings simmering gently on the stove. It’s like a hug in a bowl! I remember growing up, my mom would whip this up on chilly weekends when the world outside seemed too cold to handle. The smell of savory broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings wafting through the air made everything feel just right. It’s my ultimate comfort food, and I can’t wait to share my secrets on how to make it.</p>
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<p>What draws me to this recipe isn’t just the flavors, but also the nostalgia it evokes. With every bite, I’m transported back to family dinners and lazy Sunday afternoons. We’d gather around the table, laughter mingling with the aroma of this delightful dish. That’s the magic of cooking — it connects us to our past and creates moments worth cherishing.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What makes this recipe special</h2>
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<p>So why should you dive into making this old-fashioned chicken and dumplings? First off, the flavors are beautifully balanced — the rich chicken broth is infused with spices that dance on your palate, while the dumplings add a lightness that makes each bite heavenly. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying! The tender chicken and fluffy dumplings create a comforting embrace that wraps you up like a cozy blanket.</p>
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<p>This dish is all about simplicity and using what you likely already have on hand. In less than an hour, you can create a masterpiece that feels lovingly homemade. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for the whole family, whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a mid-week treat. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it both delicious and economical!</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gather these ingredients</h2>
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<p>Alright, let’s gather our ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this lovely dish:</p>
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<li><strong>Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded)</strong>: Leftover rotisserie chicken works like a charm. The convenience is unbeatable, and it adds all the flavor you need.</li>
<li><strong>Chicken Broth (4 cups)</strong>: Use homemade if you’ve got it! Otherwise, a good-quality store-bought broth will do. It sets the stage for a deeply flavorful dish.</li>
<li><strong>All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)</strong>: This is the backbone of your dumplings. If you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can substitute nicely.</li>
<li><strong>Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon)</strong>: This little ingredient helps the dumplings rise, giving them that light, airy quality.</li>
<li><strong>Salt (1/2 teaspoon)</strong>: A necessary element for amplifying flavor. Don’t skip it — it makes a difference!</li>
<li><strong>Milk (1/4 cup)</strong>: Adds a bit of richness to the dumplings — you can use whole, low-fat, or a plant-based milk if you prefer.</li>
<li><strong>Egg (1)</strong>: The binding agent that brings everything together beautifully.</li>
<li><strong>Butter (2 tablespoons)</strong>: For a touch of richness! If you like a more buttery flavor in your broth, consider using this while sautéing.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How this recipe comes together</h2>
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<p>Let’s get those hands busy! Follow these steps to create the magic:</p>
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<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>In a large pot, bring your chicken broth to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins.</li>
<li>In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. It’s like prepping your canvas for a masterpiece!</li>
<li>In another bowl, combine the milk and egg, then stir this mixture into the flour blend until just combined. Feel free to get in there with your hands if you want to combine it better! You’re creating dough now.</li>
<li>Roll out your dough on a floured surface and cut it into flat strips. Thickness? Think about the dumplings you love the most — not too thick, not too thin. You want them to cook through but not be doughy.</li>
<li>Gently drop your dumpling strips into the simmering broth. The sound of them splashing is music to the ears! Let them cook for about 15 minutes — patience is key here.</li>
<li>Add the shredded chicken and stir gently to combine. This is where the dish comes to life!</li>
<li>Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy the coziest feeling!</li>
</ol>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Best way to enjoy it</h2>
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<p>The beauty of chicken and dumplings lies not just in its comfort but in how it presents. I love to serve it in a big bowl, letting the dumplings float cozily atop the rich broth. For a fresh touch, a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color. If you want to go the extra mile, some crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up any leftover broth.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Keeping leftovers fresh</h2>
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<p>If you have any leftovers — though I can’t imagine there will be much — store the chicken and dumplings in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for about 3 days. The flavor gets even better! You can also freeze them, but I’d recommend doing so before adding the chicken. If you freeze after, the dumplings might become a bit soggy when thawed. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of broth or water to maintain that creamy consistency.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pro chef tips</h2>
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<li>Don’t rush the simmering process — the broth needs time to develop its flavor, and so do the dumplings!</li>
<li>If you like a touch of spice, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or your favorite herbs to the broth for an extra layer of flavor.</li>
<li>Make sure your dumpling strips are of consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Creative Twists</h2>
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<p>Want to put your spin on this? Here are a few delicious variations:</p>
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<li><strong>Herb Lovers Delight</strong>: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the chicken broth for extra aromatic depth.</li>
<li><strong>Vegetable Addition</strong>: Toss in some frozen peas, carrots, or corn when adding the chicken for a complete meal in one pot!</li>
<li><strong>Cheesy Dumplings</strong>: Mix in shredded cheese into the dumpling batter for an indulgent twist.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients</h2>
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<li>2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)</li>
<li>4 cups chicken broth</li>
<li>1 cup all-purpose flour</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/4 cup milk</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>2 tablespoons butter</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Directions to follow</h2>
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<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer.</li>
<li>In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.</li>
<li>In another bowl, whisk together milk and egg, then stir into the flour mixture.</li>
<li>Roll out the dough and cut it into flat strips.</li>
<li>Drop the dumpling strips into the simmering broth and cook for about 15 minutes.</li>
<li>Add the shredded chicken and stir gently to combine.</li>
<li>Let it simmer for a few more minutes until dumplings are cooked through. Serve hot.</li>
</ol>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your questions answered</h2>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Can I use a different protein?</strong> Of course! Cooked turkey is a lovely substitute, and you could even go vegetarian with beans or lentils.</li>
<li><strong>How can I make it dairy-free?</strong> Swap the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter.</li>
<li><strong>What if I want to add veggies?</strong> Go for it! Carrots and celery are classic options that blend beautifully into the dish.</li>
<li><strong>How long does this last in the fridge?</strong> Generally, it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.</li>
<li><strong>What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?</strong> Gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep things moist.</li>
</ul>
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<p>Embracing the art of cooking is a journey filled with love, laughter, and delicious meals that draw us back to simpler times. This old-fashioned chicken and dumplings recipe is a reflection of that spirit. I hope you’ll take a moment to try it out, experiment with your own favorite twists, and then share the delightful stories that come with it. Let’s keep the kitchen alive and vibrant together!</p>
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Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins
Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 650
Best Season: Winter

Description

Old-fashioned chicken and dumplings that evoke nostalgia and warmth. This dish is rich in flavor and perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Main Ingredients

Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

  1. Start the Broth

    In a large pot, bring your chicken broth to a gentle simmer.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients

    In another bowl, combine the milk and egg, then stir this mixture into the flour blend until just combined.
    You can use your hands to mix it better.
  4. Shape the Dumplings

    Roll out your dough on a floured surface and cut it into flat strips of desired thickness.
    Keep them not too thick or thin for proper cooking.
  5. Cook the Dumplings

    Gently drop your dumpling strips into the simmering broth and let them cook for about 15 minutes.
    Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Combine Chicken

    Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir gently to combine.
  7. Final Simmer

    Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
    Serve hot for the best experience.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 650kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 25g39%
Saturated Fat 10g50%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 100mg34%
Sodium 800mg34%
Potassium 600mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 75g25%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 4g
Protein 45g90%

Vitamin A 100 IU
Vitamin C 5 mg
Calcium 80 mg
Iron 3 mg
Vitamin D 0 IU
Vitamin E 1 IU
Vitamin K 2 mcg
Thiamin 0.3 mg
Riboflavin 0.2 mg
Niacin 4 mg
Vitamin B6 0.5 mg
Folate 50 mcg
Vitamin B12 1.5 mcg
Biotin 0 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg
Phosphorus 300 mg
Iodine 0 mcg
Magnesium 25 mg
Zinc 2 mg
Selenium 30 mcg
Copper 0.1 mg
Manganese 0.5 mg
Chromium 0 mcg
Molybdenum 0 mcg
Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Serve with crusty bread and chopped parsley for garnish.
Keywords: chicken, dumplings, comfort food, family recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Can I use a different protein?

Of course! Cooked turkey is a lovely substitute, and you could even go vegetarian with beans or lentils.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Swap the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter.

What if I want to add veggies?

Go for it! Carrots and celery are classic options that blend beautifully into the dish.

How long does this last in the fridge?

Generally, it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep things moist.

Mama K Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Katrina Petrova known as Mama K, a full-time food lover, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.

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