There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings. This classic Southern dish has been a staple in households for generations, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul.
Its origins can be traced back to the humble kitchens of the American South, where resourceful cooks used simple ingredients to create a filling and flavorful dish that could stretch to feed a family.
At its core, chicken and dumplings is a celebration of simple, wholesome flavors. Tender chicken simmers in a rich broth, infused with the savory essence of vegetables and herbs.
But it’s the pillowy dumplings, gently steamed atop the simmering stew, that truly make this dish a beloved classic.
Each bite offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors that can transport you back to cherished childhood memories or the warmth of a grandmother’s kitchen.
While the traditional recipe can be time-consuming, Anne’s Old Fashioned Flat Dumplings offer a convenient shortcut without sacrificing taste or quality.
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, these dumplings capture the essence of homemade goodness, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of this beloved dish with ease.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, Anne’s Dumplings ensure that a satisfying and delicious meal is within reach, any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this classic chicken and dumplings recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), or 3 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts/thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium or homemade)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup cold milk
- 1 package Anne’s Old Fashioned Flat Dumplings
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free dumplings.
To make the dish vegetarian or vegan, replace the chicken with additional vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or plant-based protein sources. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water or chicken broth. Add a bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Reserve the cooking liquid.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This technique ensures tender, juicy shredded chicken perfect for chicken and dumplings. Alternatively, you can use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to shred the chicken quickly.
- Make the Dumplings: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and any desired herbs or spices. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Expert Tip: Keeping the butter cold is crucial for light and fluffy dumplings. Gradually add the milk, stirring just until a sticky dough forms.
- Cook the Dumplings: Return the reserved cooking liquid to the pot and bring to a gentle simmer. Drop the dough by spoonfuls into the simmering liquid, spacing them apart. Pro Tip: To prevent sticking, make sure the liquid is simmering gently, not boiling rapidly. Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, resisting the urge to lift the lid.
- Add the Shredded Chicken: Once the dumplings are cooked through, gently stir in the shredded chicken, being careful not to break the dumplings. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Finishing Touches: If desired, you can thicken the broth by making a roux with butter and flour, or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water. Stir in any additional herbs or seasonings you prefer. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives, and enjoy this comforting Southern classic!
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about this classic chicken and dumplings recipe is its versatility. While the base recipe delivers a comforting and delicious meal, you can easily customize the flavor profile to suit your tastes or add extra nutrition by incorporating various vegetables, spices, and herbs.
Vegetable Additions:
- Carrots: Sliced or diced carrots add a sweet, earthy flavor and extra nutrition.
- Celery: Finely chopped celery provides a subtle aromatic note and a pleasant crunch.
- Peas: Frozen or fresh peas folded in at the end add a pop of color and sweetness.
- Corn: Kernels of fresh or frozen corn lend a delightful sweetness and texture.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms, such as cremini or button, contribute an earthy umami flavor.
Herbs and Spices:
- Thyme: A few sprigs of fresh thyme or a teaspoon of dried thyme elevate the dish with an earthy, minty essence.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley brightens the flavors and adds a vibrant pop of color.
- Sage: A pinch of rubbed sage imparts an unmistakable savory and slightly peppery note.
- Paprika: A dash of smoked or regular paprika lends a subtle warmth and depth.
- Cayenne: For a touch of heat, add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a unique twist on this comforting classic. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your personal preferences or dietary needs.
The Perfect Sides and Pairings
Chicken and dumplings is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own, but it can be elevated further with the right accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad would pair beautifully.
For those who crave a little extra sustenance, buttermilk biscuits or cornbread are classic Southern sides that soak up the flavorful broth perfectly.
Warm and fluffy, they provide the perfect vehicle for sopping up every last drop of the delicious gravy. If you’re looking for a vegetable side, consider sautéed greens like collard greens or mustard greens.
Their slightly bitter and earthy flavors complement the savory chicken and dumplings nicely. Alternatively, roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans offer a crisp and fresh contrast to the dish.
As for beverages, a tall glass of sweet iced tea or lemonade is a quintessential Southern pairing that helps balance the richness of the meal. For a more adult twist, a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing beer can also accompany the dish well.
No matter what sides or beverages you choose, they should enhance the comforting flavors of the chicken and dumplings without overpowering them. With the right accompaniments, this classic dish becomes a truly satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts and Benefits
Anne’s Old Fashioned Flat Dumplings provide a convenient and nutritious way to enjoy a classic comfort food dish. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients, these dumplings offer a delicious alternative to traditional dough-based dumplings.
One serving of chicken and dumplings made with Anne’s Dumplings contains:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 890mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
While this dish is not necessarily low in calories or sodium, it provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.
The Benefits of Anne’s Dumplings
- Simple Ingredients: Anne’s Dumplings are made with just a few simple ingredients, including enriched flour, water, and a touch of salt. This means no artificial preservatives or additives.
- Flat and Tender: The flat shape of these dumplings ensures they cook evenly and remain tender, never becoming dense or gummy.
- Versatile: Anne’s Dumplings can be used in a variety of dishes beyond chicken and dumplings, such as stews, soups, and even as a side dish.
- Convenient: With Anne’s Dumplings, you can enjoy the taste of homemade dumplings without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
By choosing Anne’s Old Fashioned Flat Dumplings, you can indulge in a comforting classic while incorporating a high-quality, minimally processed ingredient into your meal.
Expert Tips from the Pros
“Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern dish that’s all about comfort and simplicity,” says renowned chef Virginia Willis, author of “Secrets of the Southern Table.” “The key is to let the dumplings simmer gently in the rich chicken broth, allowing them to puff up and absorb all those delicious flavors.”
Willis recommends using a wide, shallow pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding the dumplings. “Give them plenty of room to move around and expand,” she advises.
For perfectly tender dumplings, Southern food blogger Deborah Bryant of “A Feast for the Eyes” suggests letting the dough rest for 30 minutes before rolling it out. “This resting period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender texture,” she explains.
Bryant also shares a clever trick for preventing dumplings from becoming dense or doughy: “Add a teaspoon of baking powder to the dough. It helps create a light, fluffy texture.”
When it comes to shredding the chicken, chef and cookbook author Virginia Willis prefers to use two forks. “Shredding with forks, rather than chopping, helps maintain those beautiful, long strands of chicken,” she notes.
For those seeking a richer, more flavorful broth, food blogger Deborah Bryant suggests simmering the chicken with aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery before adding the dumplings. “Those aromatic vegetables infuse the broth with incredible depth of flavor,” she says.
Anne’s Dumplings: A Trusted Brand
When it comes to creating delicious, comforting meals, having high-quality ingredients is essential. Anne’s Old Fashioned Flat Dumplings have been a trusted brand for decades, renowned for their authentic taste and commitment to using only the finest ingredients.
Founded in the heart of the South, Anne’s Dumplings has been a family-owned business since its inception. The company’s dedication to preserving traditional recipes and techniques has earned them a loyal following among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
What sets Anne’s Dumplings apart is their unwavering commitment to quality. Each batch is made with care, using only the freshest ingredients and adhering to time-honored methods. The result is a product that captures the essence of Southern comfort food, with a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice in the kitchen, Anne’s Dumplings provide a convenient and reliable shortcut to creating authentic, homemade flavor. With their versatility, you can incorporate them into a wide range of dishes, from classic chicken and dumplings to innovative recipes that showcase your culinary creativity.
By choosing Anne’s Dumplings, you’re not only ensuring a delicious meal but also supporting a brand that values tradition, quality, and customer satisfaction above all else.
Reader Testimonials and Experiences
“This recipe is an absolute game-changer! I’ve always been intimidated by making chicken and dumplings from scratch, but Anne’s Dumplings made it so easy. The dumplings were light and fluffy, and the whole dish was bursting with flavor. My family devoured it, and I can’t wait to make it again.” – Sarah G., Nashville, TN
“As a busy mom, I’m always looking for quick and delicious meal options. Anne’s Chicken and Dumplings recipe has become a staple in our household. The kids love the comforting flavors, and I love how simple it is to prepare. It’s a win-win!” – Jessica R., Atlanta, GA
“I grew up eating my grandmother’s chicken and dumplings, and this recipe brought back so many wonderful memories. The dumplings had the perfect texture, and the broth was rich and savory. I’ll definitely be passing this recipe down to my own children.” – Michael T., Birmingham, AL
“I’m not the most experienced cook, but this recipe was foolproof! The step-by-step instructions were easy to follow, and the tips for preventing sticking dumplings were invaluable. I’m so glad I discovered Anne’s Dumplings – they turned a potentially daunting dish into a breeze.” – Emily P., Raleigh, NC
Sharing personal stories and testimonials from real readers not only adds credibility to the recipe but also showcases the versatility and appeal of Anne’s Dumplings across various skill levels and households. These relatable experiences inspire others to try the recipe and enjoy the comforting flavors themselves.
Get Cooking and Share Your Creation!
Now that you have all the tips and tricks to create a delicious batch of chicken and dumplings with Anne’s Old Fashioned Flat Dumplings, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor variations or add-ins to make the recipe your own.
We’d love to hear about your cooking experience and any unique twists you put on this classic dish. Did you add extra veggies? Swap out the chicken for turkey? Or maybe you discovered the perfect side dish pairing?
Share your stories, photos, and any modifications you made in the comments below or on social media using the hashtag #AnnesDumplingsCreation. Your fellow home cooks are always looking for new inspiration!