Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipe
- The History Behind Southern-Style Chicken and Dumplings
- How to Make the Best Homemade Dumplings
- Tips for Perfectly Tender Chicken
- Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage and Reheating Tips
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
This Southern-style chicken and dumplings recipe from Betty Cooks brings comfort to your dinner table with its rich, homemade flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in, it features tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth. Whether you’re new to Southern cuisine or a longtime fan, this dish is a must-try.

Introduction
Few dishes embody the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal quite like Southern-style chicken and dumplings. This hearty, old-fashioned dinner recipe has been a staple in many kitchens for generations. Here at Betty Cooks (BettyCooks.com), we love bringing you easy recipes that nourish the soul, and this dish is no exception.

Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipe
There’s something magical about a dish that’s both filling and incredibly comforting. This chicken and dumplings recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. If you’re looking for dinner recipes that bring your family together, this is the one to try. The tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich, savory broth create an irresistible combination.

The History Behind Southern-Style Chicken and Dumplings
This classic dish has roots in the American South, where it became a go-to meal for families looking for a hearty and satisfying option. It’s believed to have originated from European influences, combining stewed meats with dough-based additions. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food found in kitchens across the country.

How to Make the Best Homemade Dumplings
Perfecting your dumplings is key to making this recipe shine. Unlike store-bought options, homemade dumplings have a soft, pillowy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory broth. By using simple pantry staples like flour, milk, and butter, you can create dumplings that are light yet hearty. This method ensures your dumplings hold their shape while absorbing all the rich flavors of the dish.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Chicken
One of the best parts of this dinner recipe is the melt-in-your-mouth chicken. The secret? Simmering it slowly in a flavorful broth. This method allows the chicken to become tender while infusing the dish with rich depth. For even better results, use bone-in chicken—it enhances the taste and keeps the meat juicy.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
While this dish is satisfying on its own, adding a few side dishes can turn it into a complete meal. Try serving it with butter swim biscuits or a side of roasted vegetables for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a truly comforting spread, a simple green salad balances out the richness of the dumplings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chicken and dumplings might seem straightforward, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Overworking the dumpling dough can result in tough dumplings instead of the light, fluffy texture you want. Another common mistake is boiling the dumplings too vigorously—this can cause them to break apart. Stick to a gentle simmer for the best results.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures the flavors remain just as delicious the next day. Place your chicken and dumplings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to prevent the dumplings from becoming too soft.


Southern-Style Chicken and Dumplings – Classic Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken and broth to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Cook until vegetables are tender.
- Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings by mixing flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Slowly add milk and melted butter, stirring until a dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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