Southern Style Chicken and Dumplings: A Delicate Southern Favorite
A Southern favorite, the Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe became the hit of our family reunion in 1995! This delicious dish offers the comforting flavors of tender chicken in a savory broth paired with fluffy dumplings. Let’s dive into crafting this heartwarming meal that speaks of tradition and comfort alike.
Recipe Yield and Introduction to Ingredients
This Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. First and foremost, you will need a few simple ingredients to recreate this classic dish. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients
- 1 (3-pound) whole chicken
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 slices lemon
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons shortening
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions for Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe
- In a large pot, place the whole chicken, quartered onion, lemon slices, salt, pepper, 3 cups of water, bay leaf, and thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is tender, about 1 hour. Therefore, you will notice the aroma filling your kitchen.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and bay leaf from the pot. Set chicken aside to cool, then shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, shortening, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup water. Mix until the dough forms a ball.
- Roll the dough on a floured surface until it is about ¼-inch thick. Cut into strips or squares of your preferred size.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the broth to a simmer. Drop the dough pieces into the simmering broth.
- Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Your dish is now ready to serve!
Enhancing the Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe with Healthier Tips
For a healthier twist on this traditional dish, consider using olive oil instead of shortening for the dumplings. This substitution can potentially reduce the amount of saturated fat in the recipe, while retaining its rich flavors.
Why the Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe is a Must-Try
Above all, the Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe offers simplicity at its finest. It is not only a quick and hearty meal but also a symbol of comfort and heritage. Its blend of flavors from the tender chicken and soft dumplings makes it a go-to recipe for many. Therefore, include this dish in your meal plans to satisfy your cravings while delighting your family with Southern comfort food!
Try this Southern Chicken Dumplings Recipe today. Its history of bringing families together and evoking cherished memories speaks volumes about its place in Southern cuisine. We are excited for you to experience the magic of this Southern classic at your dinner table!
