Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings

The Story Behind the Recipe

There are some recipes that aren’t just food — they’re memories. They bring you back to Sunday dinners, to kitchens that smelled like love and comfort, to that first bite of something warm and familiar. For me, that dish will always be Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings.

When I was a little kid, my grandmother made this on days when the air had a chill or when someone in the house needed a little extra TLC. I can still remember standing on my tiptoes, watching her roll out the dough right on the counter. Flour would cover everything — her apron, the wooden spoon, even my little nose — and she’d hum while the pot bubbled softly on the stove.

She never used a recipe card. Just a handful of this, a pinch of that, and somehow, every time, it came out perfect. The broth was rich and golden, the dumplings tender but firm enough to hold together, and the chicken so soft it melted with each bite.

Years later, when I tried to recreate her Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings, it took me a few tries to get it just right. But when that smell — buttery, savory, and full of love — filled my kitchen, I knew I’d done her proud.

This recipe is a tribute to her — and to every cook who’s ever turned simple ingredients into pure comfort. It’s hearty, wholesome, and as Southern as it gets. One spoonful and you’ll understand why this dish has been passed down through generations.

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What Makes This Recipe Special

There’s something magical about Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings that makes it different from your average chicken soup. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home.

Here’s what makes it truly special:

• Simple ingredients, big flavor: A few humble pantry staples come together to create something extraordinary.
• Tender, homemade dumplings: Soft and buttery — the heart of this dish.
• Rich, hearty broth: Made from scratch with simmered chicken and aromatics for that deep, old-fashioned flavor.
• Authentic Southern charm: This isn’t a shortcut recipe — it’s the real deal, the kind your grandma made when you were little.
• Soul-warming comfort: Perfect for cold days, busy weeks, or whenever you need a hug in a bowl.

This recipe doesn’t need fancy spices or complicated steps — just love, patience, and a big pot.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

For the Broth & Chicken

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped (optional but adds sweetness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
• 1 cup water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 ½ lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken (a mix of thighs and breasts for richness)

Ingredient Tip: The key to perfect Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings is a good broth — using a mix of chicken pieces gives the soup that homemade flavor you just can’t get from store-bought.

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For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
• ¾ cup milk (whole or 2%)

Pro Tip: Keep the butter cold and don’t overmix — your dumplings will come out light and tender every time.

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For Finishing

• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• A pinch of extra black pepper for garnish

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots (if using). Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Granny’s Tip: This first step builds the foundation of flavor — take your time and let those veggies get nice and soft.

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Step 2: Add Chicken & Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well, then place the chicken pieces directly into the pot.

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45–50 minutes, until the chicken is tender and nearly falling off the bone.

Remove the chicken and let it cool slightly. Shred or chop the meat, discarding the bones and skin.

Flavor Boost: Don’t skip simmering the chicken — it’s what gives this Old-Fashioned Chicken & Dumplings that deep, soulful flavor.

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Step 3: Make the Dumplings

While the chicken cools, make the dumpling dough.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Pour in the milk and stir until the dough comes together — soft but not sticky.

Pro Tip: Let the dough rest for 5–10 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and gives the dumplings a better texture.

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Step 4: Roll & Cut Dumplings

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into small squares (around 1–2 inches).

Lay them on parchment paper or a floured plate until ready to cook.

Chef’s Note: If you like fluffier dumplings, you can drop spoonfuls of dough into the soup instead of rolling and cutting — both methods are delicious!

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Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings one by one into the simmering liquid, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick together.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 15 minutes, uncovered, until the dumplings are tender and slightly puffed.

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Step 6: Add Chicken Back In

Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir gently, and let it all simmer together for 5–10 more minutes. The broth will thicken slightly as the dumplings release their starch.

If you want a creamier finish, stir in heavy cream now.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Kitchen Moment: When you lift that lid and the steam hits your face, you’ll swear you’re back in Grandma’s kitchen — that’s the magic of Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings.

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Step 7: Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into big bowls and top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of pepper.

Serve with flaky biscuits or buttered cornbread for the full Southern comfort experience.

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

This Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings is the definition of cozy — but you can make it a true feast with these perfect pairings:

🥖 Classic Comfort

• Buttermilk biscuits or homemade cornbread
• A side of honey butter or apple butter for sweetness

🥗 Light & Fresh

• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Sliced cucumbers with a dash of salt and vinegar

🍠 Country Sides

• Mashed potatoes
• Collard greens or green beans with bacon

Serving Tip: For that Cracker Barrel vibe, serve it in big rustic bowls with a slice of pie waiting for dessert.

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Customization & Variations

Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings is meant to be simple, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

🥕 Veggie Lover’s Version

Add peas, corn, or diced carrots for color and sweetness.

🍗 Creamy Deluxe

Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of half-and-half for extra richness.

🌶 Kick It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or blackened seasoning for a subtle spice.

🍄 Country Market Style

Add sliced mushrooms and a dash of white wine for a gourmet twist.

🧄 Herb Lovers

Throw in rosemary, sage, or tarragon for extra depth and aroma.

Meal Prep Tip: This dish keeps beautifully — make a big pot on Sunday, and you’ll have comforting lunches all week long.

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Storing & Reheating

🧊 Storing

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Tip: The dumplings will absorb more broth as they sit — add a splash of chicken stock when reheating.

🔥 Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as it can break down the dumplings.

❄️ Freezing

Freeze the broth and chicken mixture without dumplings for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat and make a fresh batch of dumplings.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

(Serves 6)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg

It’s hearty but balanced — a bowl of Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings gives you everything your body and soul need on a chilly day.

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great time-saver! Just skip the simmering step and use store-bought broth.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely — cook everything except the dumplings on LOW for 6–7 hours. Add dumplings in the last 30 minutes.

3. Can I use canned biscuits for dumplings?

Yes! Cut them into small pieces and simmer until cooked through.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream — it’ll still be delicious.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings.

6. How do I thicken the broth?

Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before simmering the dumplings.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Yes — peas, corn, and carrots work great and make it even heartier.

8. What can I serve with it?

Biscuits, green beans, or mashed potatoes — classic Southern sides!

9. How do I keep the dumplings from falling apart?

Make sure the soup is at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

Freeze without dumplings for best texture — add fresh ones when reheating.

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

There’s something truly special about Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, fills the house with warmth, and feeds both body and soul. Every spoonful tastes like home — creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings that melt in your mouth.

This dish isn’t about perfection — it’s about comfort. It’s about taking a few simple ingredients and turning them into something unforgettable. It’s about slowing down, stirring the pot, and remembering that food made with love always tastes better.

So whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, make this recipe when you need a little extra comfort in your life. It’s warm, nostalgic, and absolutely timeless.

💛 Tried This Recipe?

If you make Old-Fashioned Chicken And Dumplings, I’d love to see it! Tag your photos and follow me on Pinterest at grannyslilkitchen — where every dish is made with heart, heritage, and a whole lot of flavor.