Old Fashioned Home Made Chicken & Dumplings

Welcome to a comforting journey into the heart of classic home cooking with our Old Fashioned Home Made Chicken & Dumplings recipe. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a savory broth, accompanied by soft, doughy dumplings that melt in your mouth. This dish embodies the essence of cozy family dinners and nostalgic flavors, perfect for warming up any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something truly special about a recipe that brings you back to simpler times. This dish is not only delicious but also straightforward to make. You’ll love how the rich broth complements the fluffy dumplings, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. Plus, if you’re a fan of Cracker Barrel’s version, you’re in for a treat with this homemade delight!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden board or counter for rolling dough
• Pizza cutter or knife

Ingredients

Chicken & Broth:

• 2-4 chicken breasts (bone-in with skin) or 1 whole 3lb chicken
• 1 stick butter
• 2 packages chicken bouillon (or 2 spoonfuls)

Dumplings:

• 1 stick butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk, 2%
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 2 drops of yellow food coloring (or a pinch of Turmeric)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Chicken and Broth:

Place the chicken breasts with skin in a Dutch oven and cover with water. Add one stick of butter and two packages or spoonfuls of chicken bouillon. Cook over medium heat until the chicken is tender, about 45 minutes. Let the chicken cool, then remove skin and bones, and chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Reserve the chicken and broth separately.

2. Dumplings:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and melted butter. Using half an eggshell, measure milk six times and add to the mixture. Stir in salt and pepper. Gradually add flour, mixing until the dough is sticky. Add yellow food coloring or Turmeric for color. On a floured surface, roll out the dough very thin. Cut into strips with a pizza cutter. Add dumplings to boiling chicken broth, ensuring you have enough liquid to prevent scorching. Reduce heat to low, add remaining dumplings, and stir gently. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your dough is slightly sticky for softer dumplings.
• Roll the dough thinly for even cooking.
• Maintain a rolling boil before adding dumplings to prevent sticking.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a richer flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves to the broth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream before serving. You can also add vegetables like carrots or peas for a heartier meal.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is a good source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s also rich in calories and fats, so enjoy it as an occasional treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?

A: Yes, boneless chicken works as well, though bone-in adds more flavor to the broth.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have a pizza cutter?

A: A sharp knife works perfectly fine for cutting the dough.

Conclusion

We hope you’re inspired to try making this Old Fashioned Home Made Chicken & Dumplings recipe. It’s a dish that promises to bring warmth and comfort to your table, creating cherished memories with each bite. We’d love to hear about your experiences, so please share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. Enjoy!