Southern Chicken & Dumplings

Southern chicken and dumplings is the definition of comfort food—warm, simple, and deeply nourishing. This is the kind of dish that feels like home, whether you grew up eating it or discovered it later in life. Every spoonful is soft and cozy, with tender chicken and pillowy dumplings swimming in a rich, savory broth.

Unlike fancy versions, traditional Southern chicken and dumplings are humble and straightforward. The flavor comes from good chicken broth, gentle seasoning, and dumplings that cook right in the pot, soaking up all that goodness. There’s nothing complicated here, just time-tested technique and honest ingredients.

The dumplings are the real star. Rolled thin and dropped into simmering broth, they puff slightly as they cook, turning soft and tender without being heavy. Covered simmering is key—it steams the dumplings so they cook through while staying fluffy.

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This is a perfect one-pot meal for chilly evenings, sick days, or anytime you want something comforting and filling. Serve it just as it is, or with a side of biscuits or buttered peas for a true Southern table.

Servings and timing:
Yield: 4–6 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons cold butter, diced
  • 3/4 cup milk

Instructions:

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