Tender shredded chicken simmered in rich broth with soft homemade dumplings—this old-fashioned Southern chicken-and-dumplings recipe is pure comfort food made from scratch.

There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of old-fashioned chicken and dumplings simmering on the stove. This classic Southern chicken and dumplings recipe is made from scratch, just as many of our grandparents used to make it. Tender shredded chicken cooks in a rich homemade broth while soft, homemade dumplings soak up all that incredible flavor.

If you’ve been searching for an easy chicken and dumplings recipe from scratch, this one is simple, hearty, and perfect for a cozy family dinner. With basic pantry ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a pot of homemade chicken and dumplings that tastes like true Southern comfort food.

This traditional chicken and dumplings recipe is perfect for chilly nights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a warm meal that feels like home. Serve it with classic Southern sides like buttery dinner rolls, Southern green beans, or a slice of homemade cornbread for a meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Southern comfort food
• Made completely from scratch
• Rich, flavorful homemade broth
• Soft homemade dumplings
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Can be cooked in one pot

Equipment Needed for Chicken and Dumplings

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Measuring cups and Measuring spoons

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

• Chicken – The base of the dish that creates a rich, savory broth and provides tender shredded meat.
• Onion – Adds depth and classic savory flavor to the broth.
• Celery – Brings a subtle earthy flavor that helps build a traditional Southern soup base.
• Garlic – Adds extra warmth and flavor to the broth.
• Water or chicken broth – The cooking liquid that turns into the flavorful base for the dumplings.
• All-purpose flour – The main ingredient used to make the soft homemade dumplings.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors in both the broth and the dumplings.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild warmth and classic seasoning to the dish.
• Baking powder – Helps keep the dumplings light and tender.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor to both the dumplings and the broth.
• Milk or buttermilk – Brings moisture to the dumpling dough and helps create soft dumplings.
• Optional flour for thickening – Can be added at the end if you prefer a thicker, creamier broth.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1–2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken, water or broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside while you prepare the dumplings.

Step 4: Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the butter with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dumplings

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough out to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut the dough into small squares or strips using a knife or pizza cutter.

Step 6: Cook the Dumplings

Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings into the broth one at a time, stirring occasionally so they do not stick together. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the dumplings are tender.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a little flour with some broth to make a slurry, then stir it back into the pot. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings

• Use bone-in chicken- This gives the broth much more flavor.
• Don’t overwork the dumpling dough- This keeps the dumplings soft and tender.
• Add dumplings slowly– Dropping them in one at a time prevents sticking.
• Let the dish simmer- The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.

What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a hearty dish, so simple Southern sides work best.

Popular pairings include:

• Southern green beans with bacon and potatoes
• Buttery cornbread
• Fried okra
• Cucumber and tomato salad
• Homemade dinner rolls

Storing Chicken and Dumplings

Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop and add a splash of broth or water if needed.

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