Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that evokes the cozy feeling of a Southern kitchen? Then look no further! This Chicken and Dumplings recipe, inspired by the Queen of Southern cooking herself, Paula Deen, is the perfect dish for a chilly evening or a family gathering. It's a classic, easy recipe that's sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready for a delicious journey into the heart of Southern comfort food!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 1 whole fryer chicken (about 3 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
For the Dumplings:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup shortening or lard (for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
Making the Chicken Broth:
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken pieces, onion, celery, carrots, chicken broth, salt, pepper, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken, discarding the skin and bones.
Making the Dumplings:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the shortening or lard using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; a slightly lumpy batter is fine.
Combining and Cooking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot of broth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the simmering chicken and broth.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don't overmix the dumpling batter; a slightly lumpy batter will result in fluffier dumplings.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, you can simmer the mixture uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the broth, such as potatoes, turnips, or green beans.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as sage, oregano, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion. Enjoy this taste of Southern hospitality! Let us know in the comments how your Chicken and Dumplings turned out! We'd love to see your pictures!