Few dishes warm the soul quite like chicken and dumplings. This classic comfort food has been a beloved staple in Southern kitchens for generations. With tender chicken simmered in a rich broth and fluffy dumplings that soak up every bit of flavor, it’s the ultimate cozy meal.
Our recipe features Anne’s dumplings, known for their light and pillowy texture that perfectly complements the savory stew. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a hearty dinner, this dish delivers satisfying flavors with every bite. Let’s dive into making this timeless favorite that’s sure to become a go-to in your home.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Chicken And Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings, we carefully select ingredients that build a flavorful, comforting dish. Below are all the essentials you’ll need to prepare both the chicken stew and the famous Anne’s dumplings.
For the Chicken Stew
We start with fresh ingredients to craft a rich, savory base that perfectly complements the dumplings:
- 3 lbs bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks, skin removed for tenderness
- 8 cups chicken broth, homemade or low-sodium store-bought for depth of flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, to sauté aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 3 celery stalks, sliced thin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream, added at the end for creaminess (optional)
For Anne’s Dumplings
Anne’s dumplings are renowned for their light and fluffy texture. The key lies in simple, high-quality ingredients mixed just right:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups all-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted to ensure lightness |
| 1 tablespoon baking powder | 1 tbsp | Leavening agent for fluffiness |
| 1 teaspoon salt | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| 1 cup whole milk | 1 cup | Use cold for best texture |
| 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted | 2 tbsp | Adds richness |
These ingredients together create the classic Southern dumplings that soak up the chicken stew broth beautifully while maintaining their airy structure.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings, having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and the best results. Below is a detailed list of essential tools to gather before we begin:
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Perfect for simmering the chicken stew evenly, this pot maintains consistent heat and accommodates all ingredients comfortably.
- Mixing bowls
We need at least two: one for combining the dumpling ingredients and one for mixing the chicken stew components if preferred separately.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precision matters, especially for the dumplings. Using exact measurements helps achieve the signature light and fluffy texture of Anne’s dumplings.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Ideal for stirring the stew gently without tearing the delicate chicken or dumplings.
- Whisk
Useful for blending wet and dry dumpling ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Knife and cutting board
For chopping aromatics like onions, celery, and carrots, and for trimming the chicken if needed.
- Slotted spoon or tongs
To handle the cooked chicken pieces easily when removing them from the pot or serving.
- Lid for pot
Essential for simmering the stew and dumplings covered, to trap steam and cook evenly.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot or Dutch oven | Simmer chicken and stew ingredients |
| Mixing bowls | Combine dumpling and stew ingredients |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensure accurate ingredient quantities |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stir stew without damage |
| Whisk | Mix dumpling batter thoroughly |
| Knife and cutting board | Prep vegetables and chicken |
| Slotted spoon or tongs | Handle chicken pieces gently |
| Pot lid | Cover during simmering to retain moisture |
Having these tools ready sets us up for a successful and enjoyable cooking experience while making our beloved Chicken and Dumplings with Anne’s Dumplings. Each piece of equipment plays a vital role in bringing out the full flavor and texture of this classic Southern dish.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, proper Prep Work ensures our Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings turns out perfectly. Organizing ingredients and prepping components in advance helps maintain a smooth, efficient cooking process.
Preparing the Chicken
To build the rich flavor base of our dish, start by preparing the chicken carefully:
- Select bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tender meat.
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Trim any excess fat or loose skin to prevent greasiness.
- Season the chicken lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prepare aromatics by peeling and chopping onion, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince garlic cloves finely for a subtle flavor boost.
- Measure out fresh chicken broth to add depth to the stew.
This initial prep sets the stage for a rich, savory base that will infuse every bite of our comforting dish.
Making the Dumpling Dough
The heart of Anne’s dumplings lies in their light and fluffy texture. Precise steps guarantee this delicate consistency:
- Sift all-purpose flour and baking powder together to incorporate air and ensure even rising.
- Measure cold milk accurately and keep it chilled—cold liquid is key for tender dumplings.
- Cut cold butter into small cubes for uniform mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Using a pastry blender or fork, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold milk and stir gently to just combine, avoiding overmixing which can toughen the dumplings.
- The dough should come together into a soft, slightly sticky ball, ready for dropping onto the simmering stew.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon | Fresh |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Cold and cubed |
| Cold milk | 3/4 cup | Keep in the fridge until use |
“The secret to Anne’s dumplings is keeping everything cold and mixing just until combined—this keeps them light and tender as they cook.”
With the chicken prepped and dumpling dough ready, we’re set to bring together the flavors and textures that make this dish unforgettable.
Cooking the Chicken and Broth
To build the rich foundation of our Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings, we focus first on cooking the chicken and creating a flavorful broth. This step develops the depth and warmth essential for our comforting dish.
Simmering the Chicken
We begin by placing bone-in chicken thighs into a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Cover the chicken with fresh chicken broth or cold water, ensuring the meat is fully submerged to extract maximum flavor.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Immediately reduce the heat to low, maintaining a steady simmer.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface with a slotted spoon to keep the broth clear and pure.
- Cover the pot partially with a lid, allowing some steam to escape.
- Simmer the chicken for 35 to 40 minutes until the meat is tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Set them aside to cool slightly before shredding the meat, discarding the skin and bones.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Chicken used | Bone-in, skin-on thighs |
| Cooking temperature | Simmer at low heat |
| Cooking time | 35-40 minutes |
| Internal temperature goal | 165°F (74°C) |
| Important technique | Skim foam for clear broth |
Preparing the Vegetables
While the chicken simmers, we prepare the aromatic vegetables that will infuse our broth and enhance the flavor profile of the stew.
- Chop 1 large onion, 2 medium carrots, and 2 celery stalks into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely to release their fragrance.
- Once the chicken is removed, add the chopped vegetables and garlic directly into the simmering broth.
- Increase the heat slightly and cook the vegetables for 8 to 10 minutes until they soften but retain some bite.
- Stir occasionally using a wooden spoon to prevent sticking.
- Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, balancing the natural sweetness from the vegetables.
These steps develop the savory, aromatic base that supports the light and fluffy Anne’s dumplings perfectly, marrying flavors in every spoonful.
Making Anne’s Dumplings
Preparing Anne’s Dumplings is key to achieving that perfect light and fluffy texture that defines our favorite Chicken and Dumplings dish. Let’s walk through the careful process of rolling and cutting the dumplings and share some pro tips for consistent success.
Rolling and Cutting the Dumplings
- Lightly flour your clean surface to prevent sticking without adding excess flour to the dough.
- Turn the dumpling dough onto the surface and gently press into a roughly ½-inch thick rectangle or square.
- Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out evenly, maintaining about a ½-inch thickness throughout.
- With a sharp knife or pastry cutter, slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips.
- Cut the strips into 1½ to 2-inch pieces to form shapely dumplings ready for cooking.
- Avoid overworking the dough; handle it gently to preserve the tender crumb that makes Anne’s dumplings so special.
“Gentle handling combined with precise cutting is the secret to Anne’s signature light and fluffy dumplings.”
Tips for Perfect Dumplings
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Use cold ingredients | Keep butter and milk cold to help the dough stay flaky during cooking. |
| Do not over-knead | Mix and handle dough just enough to combine—over-kneading causes tough dumplings. |
| Maintain consistent thickness | Rolling out the dough evenly ensures dumplings cook uniformly and stay tender throughout. |
| Cook dumplings gently | Simmer dumplings in broth without boiling vigorously to avoid breaking them apart. |
| Serve immediately | Dumplings are best enjoyed fresh; letting them sit can cause them to harden or mush. |
“Consistency in dough thickness and gentle simmering creates dumplings that literally melt in your mouth.”
Together, these steps and tips guide us to create Anne’s dumplings with their distinct lightness and pillowy texture—the perfect complement to our rich chicken broth.
Combining Chicken and Dumplings
Bringing together tender chicken and fluffy Anne’s dumplings is where this classic comfort dish truly shines. This section will guide us through the critical steps to combine these elements perfectly for an unforgettable meal.
Adding Dumplings to the Stew
Once our chicken stew has reached a rich simmer with flavors deeply infused by the aromatics, it’s time to add Anne’s dumplings. We want to ensure the broth is gently bubbling but not boiling vigorously to allow the dumplings to cook evenly and maintain their signature light texture.
- Use a spoon to create gentle wells in the simmering stew for placing each dumpling.
- Drop the dumplings carefully into these wells, spacing them evenly to prevent sticking.
- Avoid stirring immediately after adding the dumplings to avoid breaking their delicate structure.
- Cover the pot with a lid to trap steam, which helps cook the dumplings from the top as well.
Pro tip: Lower the heat slightly before adding dumplings to maintain a steady simmer without harsh boiling that can toughen them.
Cooking Time for Dumplings
Cooking Anne’s dumplings requires precise timing to perfect their fluffy interior and slightly firm exterior. Below is a clear guide to help us monitor the timing effectively:
| Step | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dumpling cooking start | 0 minutes | Add dumplings to gently simmering stew |
| Initial cook | 10-12 minutes | Cover and cook without stirring |
| Check doneness | After 12 minutes | Insert a toothpick or fork; dumplings should feel tender |
| Continue if needed | +2-3 minutes | If dough is still raw inside, cook a bit longer but monitor closely |
During this cooking phase, we resist the urge to lift the lid often, as consistent steam is crucial for dumplings to rise and cook properly. When the dumplings are soft to the touch yet cooked through, they are ready to serve.
Our chicken and dumplings recipe with Anne’s dumplings ensures the perfect texture balance — tender succulent chicken in rich broth paired with airy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings, thoughtful serving suggestions play a key role in creating a well-rounded meal experience. Here’s how we can present this classic Southern dish to delight every sense:
Pair with Fresh, Crisp Sides
Balance the rich, hearty flavors of the chicken and dumplings by serving alongside light, refreshing vegetables. Consider:
- Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a crisp bite
- A simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Add a Touch of Bread
Though the dumplings are the star carbohydrate, a side of warm cornbread or crusty artisan bread helps soak up the velvety broth. Warm the bread just before serving for best results.
Garnish for Vibrancy and Flavor
Bright finishing touches enhance both flavor and presentation. Sprinkle the finished dish with:
- Freshly chopped parsley or chives
- A few turns of freshly ground black pepper for an aromatic kick
Beverage Pairing Suggestions
Complement the comforting flavors with drinks that refresh the palate:
| Beverage Type | Recommended Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wine | Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir | Balances creamy texture of broth |
| Beer | Light lager or pilsner | Crisp and clean to contrast richness |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling water with lemon slice | Cleanses and refreshes after each spoon |
Portioning and Plating Tips
To serve with style and ease:
- Use a large ladle to scoop both the tender chicken and generous portions of Anne’s fluffy dumplings.
- Make sure each bowl has a good balance of protein, broth, and dumplings.
- Keep the broth hot; serve immediately to maintain the dumplings’ delicate, light texture.
“The true comfort of chicken and dumplings is in the harmony between the creamy broth and those airy Anne’s dumplings. Every element on the plate should highlight that balance.”
By following these Serving Suggestions, we guarantee that our Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings will be a memorable, heartwarming meal perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage of our Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with Anne’s Dumplings ensures we enjoy the same comforting flavors even the next day. Follow these steps to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
Cooling and Refrigeration
- Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Transfer the stew into an airtight container, ensuring the dumplings remain covered by the broth to maintain moisture.
- Refrigerate promptly. Our dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Guidelines
- For longer storage, freeze the dish in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Leave about 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion.
- Label the container with the date to keep track.
- Frozen chicken and dumplings maintain best quality for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Use airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Leave headspace; label container |
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even heating.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the stew thickens too much.
- Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can toughen the dumplings.
- Reheat until hot throughout, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
“Reheating our chicken and dumplings with care preserves the delicate texture of Anne’s dumplings and the rich flavors of the broth.”
Leftover Serving Ideas
Transform leftovers into comforting meals by:
- Serving over steamed rice or mashed potatoes.
- Adding fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Using as a filling for pot pies or savory pastries.
By following these storage and reheating tips, we keep every bite of our chicken and dumplings just as delightful as when freshly made.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings with Anne’s dumplings bring together comfort and tradition in every bite. This recipe offers a reliable way to create a hearty meal that feels like home. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily master the balance of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.
We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by adding personal touches or favorite sides. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it’s a dish that satisfies and warms the soul. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken and Dumplings?
Chicken and Dumplings is a classic Southern comfort food featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich broth, paired with light, fluffy dumplings. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family meals.
What makes Anne’s Dumplings special?
Anne’s Dumplings are known for their light, fluffy texture achieved by using cold ingredients, sifting flour, baking powder, and careful dough handling. They enhance the overall dish with their airy consistency.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken and Dumplings?
Key ingredients include bone-in chicken thighs, chicken broth, aromatics like onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and for the dumplings, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cold milk, and cold butter.
What equipment is essential for making this dish?
You’ll need a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, wooden spoon, knife, slotted spoon, and a pot lid for cooking and preparation.
How do I prepare the chicken for the stew?
Use bone-in chicken thighs, rinse and trim them, then season. Simmer the chicken in broth, skim impurities, and cook until tender to create a flavorful base for the stew.
How is the dumpling dough made?
Sift flour and baking powder, cut in cold butter, then mix with cold milk gently. Avoid over-kneading to keep the dough light and fluffy for perfect dumplings.
How do I cook the dumplings in the stew?
Add rolled and cut dumplings to gently bubbling broth, avoid stirring right away, cover the pot, and cook until dumplings are tender but still slightly firm on the outside.
What are some good sides to serve with Chicken and Dumplings?
Fresh steamed green beans, a garden salad, warm cornbread, or crusty bread are ideal sides. Garnish with fresh herbs and pair with Chardonnay or sparkling water for a complete meal.
How should I store leftover Chicken and Dumplings?
Cool the dish, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Chicken and Dumplings?
Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve dumpling texture and broth flavors. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the dumplings.
Can leftover Chicken and Dumplings be used creatively?
Yes! Use leftovers as a filling for pot pies or serve over rice for a tasty new twist on this classic comfort dish.