🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew:
1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs) or 4–5 chicken breasts/thighs
8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
2 carrots, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
2 celery stalks, chopped (optional)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) 1
teaspoon black pepper 1
teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour (to thicken)
For the Dumplings:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
3 tablespoons butter (melted)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, place the chicken, broth, onion, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes (until chicken is tender and cooked through). Remove chicken from the pot, shred into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the broth. Discard bones and skin if using whole chicken.
Step 2: Make the Gravy Base
In a small pan, melt butter and stir in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes. Whisk the roux into the chicken broth to thicken it slightly. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings
In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms (don’t overmix). Drop spoonfuls of dough directly into the simmering chicken stew.
Step 4: Simmer & Serve
Cover the pot with a lid and let dumplings cook for 15–20 minutes without lifting the lid (steam cooks them through). Once dumplings are fluffy and cooked, gently stir. Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a sprinkle of black pepper. Pair with a side salad, roasted veggies, or cornbread for a complete Southern feast. Leftovers can be reheated the next day and taste even better as the flavors deepen.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Dumplings
Don’t overwork the dough – it should be soft and slightly sticky. Keep the lid on while simmering to ensure dumplings rise properly. For a richer broth, add a splash of heavy cream.
👉 This dish is the definition of comfort in a bowl – creamy, hearty, and soul-satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or when you need a little taste of home.
