Country Christmas Chicken Dumplings

Is there anything more comforting than a big bowl of chicken and dumplings on a chilly winter day? This Country Christmas Chicken & Dumplings recipe takes that classic comfort food and elevates it with festive flavors perfect for the holiday season. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a creamy, herb-infused broth, studded with soft, pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, evokes cherished family memories, and brings everyone together around the table. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your Christmas gathering. The creamy texture, savory broth, and delightful dumplings make it an unforgettable meal. Let’s bring a little country Christmas magic to your kitchen!

My grandma’s chicken and dumplings were legendary. Every Christmas, the aroma would fill her cozy farmhouse, and the entire family would gather to savor each spoonful. Over the years, I’ve tweaked her recipe to create my own version, incorporating seasonal herbs and spices that bring a festive flair. As a recipe developer and food blogger with over a decade of experience, I’ve learned the secrets to making truly exceptional chicken and dumplings, and I’m excited to share them with you. Chicken and dumplings are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with foodies rediscovering the joy of simple, comforting, home-cooked meals. It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones during the holidays.

Ingredients: The Heart of Comfort

Here’s what you’ll need to create this heartwarming dish. We’ll also explore why each ingredient is important and how you can make smart substitutions.

• Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs offer more flavor due to their higher fat content. For a leaner option, chicken breasts work perfectly. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
• Chicken Broth: 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish. Bone broth can be substituted for a richer flavor. Broth provides a flavorful base for the soup and contains electrolytes.
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Yellow onions provide a mild, sweet flavor when cooked. Shallots can be used for a more delicate flavor. Onions are rich in antioxidants and add depth to the broth.
• Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped. Carrots add sweetness and color to the dish. Parsnips can be used for a similar flavor profile. Carrots are a good source of Vitamin A and fiber.
• Celery: 2 stalks celery, chopped. Celery adds a savory, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the carrots. Fennel bulb can be used as a substitute. Celery is low in calories and contains Vitamin K.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, for the dumplings. All-purpose flour provides the structure for the dumplings. Cake flour can be used for a more tender dumpling, but they may be more fragile. Flour provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons, for the dumplings. Baking powder helps the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, plus more to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. Sea salt or kosher salt are good options.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, plus more to taste. Black pepper adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. White pepper can be used for a milder flavor.
• Shortening: 6 tablespoons cold vegetable shortening, for the dumplings. Shortening creates a tender, flaky dumpling. Lard or cold butter can be used as substitutes.
• Milk: ¾ cup, for the dumplings. Milk adds moisture and richness to the dumplings. Buttermilk can be used for a tangier flavor.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup. Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the broth. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream can also be used.
• Fresh Thyme: 2 sprigs. Thyme adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables. Dried thyme can be used, but use half the amount.
• Fresh Rosemary: 1 sprig. Rosemary adds a piney, aromatic flavor that is perfect for the holidays. Dried rosemary can be used, but use half the amount.
• Bay Leaf: 1 bay leaf. Bay leaf adds a subtle, savory flavor to the broth. Remember to remove it before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken & Dumplings

Through years of experimenting, I’ve discovered a few key tricks that will take your chicken and dumplings to the next level.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When browning the chicken, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This ensures that the chicken sears properly and develops a flavorful crust.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Simmering the chicken and vegetables allows the flavors to meld together without toughening the chicken.
• Chill the Shortening: Make sure the shortening is very cold before adding it to the flour mixture. This will create pockets of fat that result in light and flaky dumplings.
• Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough dumplings. Mix just until the dough comes together.
• Drop the Dumplings Gently: Gently drop the dumplings into the simmering broth to prevent them from deflating.
• Adjust the Broth Consistency: If the broth is too thin, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the broth during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the broth before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Storage Substitutions: Making it Your Own

This recipe is very versatile. Here are some tips for storing leftovers and making substitutions to suit your dietary needs and preferences.

• Storage: Leftover chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: While the chicken and broth freeze well, the dumplings can become a bit mushy after thawing. For best results, freeze the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. You can make fresh dumplings when you’re ready to serve.
• Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free milk alternative (such as almond milk or soy milk) for the dumplings and a dairy-free heavy cream alternative (such as coconut cream) for the broth.
• Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with vegetable broth, add hearty vegetables like mushrooms and potatoes, and use vegetarian dumplings.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Sage, marjoram, and oregano would also be delicious in this recipe.

FAQ: Your Chicken & Dumpling Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about making chicken and dumplings:

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the broth in step 5. This will save you time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

How do I prevent my dumplings from being gummy?

The key to preventing gummy dumplings is to avoid overmixing the dough. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then, gently stir in the milk until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, gummy dumplings.

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dumpling dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to cook the dumplings immediately before serving to ensure they are light and fluffy.

What can I add to make the chicken and dumplings spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth or a dash of hot sauce to each serving. You can also add some chopped jalapenos or serrano peppers to the vegetables while they are sauteing.

Why are my dumplings sinking to the bottom of the pot?

Dumplings can sink if the broth is not simmering gently enough. Make sure the broth is simmering, not boiling vigorously. Also, make sure the dumplings are not too large or dense. Using the correct amount of baking powder is also crucial for helping the dumplings rise.

Can I use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For a slow cooker, brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the dumplings during the last hour of cooking. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables. Add the broth and bay leaf, then pressure cook on high for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Add the dumplings and simmer until cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

Share the Warmth

This Country Christmas Chicken & Dumplings recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, it’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones during the holiday season. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version. Remember my expert tips to ensure your dumplings are light and fluffy, and don’t forget to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Now, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and get ready to create a holiday memory that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! We love hearing how your culinary adventures turn out.

Print