Rustic Chicken and Dumplin’s is a timeless, soul-warming dish that takes you right to the heart of Southern comfort. Imagine a creamy broth with tender, shredded chicken nestled alongside fluffy, buttery dumplings—each bite is a burst of coziness. This classic recipe has been a favorite across many generations, providing not only nourishment but a sense of nostalgia for family gatherings and Sunday suppers.
Rustic Chicken and Dumplin’s is perfect for when you want to create something hearty and homey, but don’t worry—despite its old-fashioned charm, it’s easy to prepare even in today’s busy kitchens. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just want to treat yourself, this dish guarantees comfort in every spoonful.
Chef Olivia’s Notes
When making Rustic Chicken and Dumplin’s, there are a few tips to ensure the perfect result. First, always use cold butter when making the dumplings. Cold butter helps make the dumplings light and fluffy rather than dense. If you’re using a crockpot, make sure to let the chicken cook slowly to absorb all the flavors, leaving the meat incredibly tender.
Additionally, you can control the thickness of your broth. If you prefer a thicker stew-like consistency, mix a bit of cornstarch into the broth. But if you like a lighter, more soupy consistency, skip that step. Moreover, don’t be afraid to get creative with herbs; adding thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor of your dumplings!
History of the Recipe
Chicken and dumplings date back to early Southern American kitchens, where it became a staple due to its simplicity and hearty ingredients. Rustic Chicken and Dumplin’s evolved out of necessity—families would use leftover chicken and pantry staples like flour, making this dish an economical meal. Over the years, it has transformed into the beloved comfort food we know today.
In fact, families would gather to enjoy this dish at large dinners, and the tradition passed through generations. The idea of combining tender chicken with doughy dumplings made it popular across the United States, especially in Southern states, where food is about gathering, storytelling, and love.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Rustic Chicken and Dumplin’s:
For the Soup:
- 1 whole chicken (or bone-in pieces)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups of chicken broth or stock
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup cold shortening or butter
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- Fresh herbs (optional, for flavor)
Optional for Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with water)
Extras for Serving
The beauty of Rustic Chicken and Dumplin’s is that it’s easy to pair with other simple, tasty sides. Chop some fresh parsley to sprinkle on top for added freshness. Cracked black pepper adds a little spice to each bowl, while warm, crusty bread or buttered rolls make perfect companions to this dish. It’s always great to have something to mop up the last bits of the creamy broth!
Additionally, feel free to serve this dish alongside a light green salad to balance out the richness of the soup. And if you want a fun twist, add some pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy contrast.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, herbs, and chicken broth into a large pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken cook for about 30 to 40 minutes until it’s tender and easily shreddable. If you’re using a crockpot, you can set it on low and let the chicken cook for about 6 to 7 hours. This way, the flavors will slowly develop, making the broth rich and savory.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumplings
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your dumplings. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Then, cut in the cold butter or shortening until the mixture looks crumbly. Add the buttermilk slowly, stirring until you form a soft dough. Roll out the dough and cut it into strips for traditional flat dumplings, or simply scoop spoonfuls of the dough for easy drop dumplings.
Step 3: Shred Chicken & Thicken Broth
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If you prefer a thicker broth, mix some cornstarch with water and pour it into the broth, stirring until it thickens. Bring the soup to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer before adding the dumplings.
Step 4: Cook Dumplings
Carefully drop your dumplings into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and fluffy. If using a crockpot, increase the heat to high and let the dumplings cook for about an hour. This ensures they are light, airy, and soak up the rich broth flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are done, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, and serve with extra bread on the side. This dish is all about comfort, so don’t be afraid to enjoy it on a lazy afternoon or serve it up for a warm family dinner.
Notes
If you’re pressed for time or want to simplify things even more, you can substitute canned biscuit dough for the homemade dumplings. Rotisserie chicken can also be used instead of cooking your own chicken, making the preparation faster without sacrificing flavor.
Storage: Leftovers are fantastic the next day. Just be sure to refrigerate the chicken and dumplings in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, you might want to add a little extra broth to thin out the soup since the dumplings can absorb some of the liquid.
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (stovetop) or 6-7 hours (crockpot)
Recipe Category
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop or Crockpot
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 56g (18%)
- Protein: 38g (76%)
- Fat: 19g (29%)
- Saturated Fat: 10g (50%)
- Cholesterol: 111mg (37%)
- Sodium: 997mg (42%)
- Fiber: 3g (12%)
- Sugar: 14g (28%)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought biscuits for dumplings?
Yes! You can save time by using canned biscuits. Just cut them into quarters before dropping them into the broth.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
It’s best to freeze the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. Dumplings tend to get soggy when frozen and reheated.
What vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can easily toss in peas, corn, or green beans if you want to boost the veggie content. They’ll add sweetness and color to your dish.
