"Mama Knew Love" Southern Chicken and Dumplings

A Southern Chicken and dumplings recipe that is as comforting as it is flavorful. It’s perfect for a hearty make-ahead weeknight dinner or just enjoy it on a Sunday dinner get together.

In the heart of the South, where culinary traditions run deep and the kitchen is the soul of the home, there exists a dish that embodies the very essence of comfort and warmth. Picture yourself in a cozy, sunlit kitchen, the scent of simmering chicken and savory herbs wafting through the air. Chicken and dumplings more than Chicken noodle soup is that warm comforting soup of choice.

It's a melody of flavors and a dance of textures, reminiscent of the soulful rhythms that echo through the musical heart of the South. Today, we embark on a journey to create the quintessential Southern chicken and dumplings, a dish that not only fills your belly but also touches your spirit.

An old school and soul food comfort dish requires music from someone with an old soul. Anthony Hamilton fits the bill and “Mama Knew Love” is the perfect track to crank up in the kitchen as you make this dish.

I grew up with my grandparents but went to live with my mother when I was 16. It was an adjustment, a big one for both of us, but food helped greatly with the transition. Mama knew food, so mama knew love and her chicken and dumplings recipe was my favorite dish. Her black mama chicken and dumplings recipe is the inspiration to my version. My dumplings are tender but not as tender as Mom’s.

What are dumplings?

I remember the first time I had chicken and dumplings. My grandmother served up a large pot and probably for the first time ever, asked her, “What is this?” Immediately, I got the look, the one that said just shut up and be grateful you have a meal. I did what her look said to do and enjoyed the finest chicken and something stew I had ever had to that point. It was like a thick chicken soup with biscuits. It wasn’t until I lived with moms that I learned those tender, fluffy micro pillows were called dumplings.

So exactly what are they you ask? To avoid any confusion Southern dumplings bear no resemblance to Asian dumplings. Asian varieties include dough with some type of stuffing. Down south the dumpling in its basic form is just dough that is simmered in liquid. Southern dumplings are a delightful treat, made with humble, basic ingredients (flour and water) but an exhibition in ingenuity, creativity, and survival.

Southern style chicken and dumplings is a dish loaded with tender chicken, veggies and homemade dumplings in a rich and creamy broth

Flat Dumplings vs. Biscuit Dumplings

Most Southern style chicken and dumpling recipes use either flat or biscuit dumplings. Flat dumplings and biscuit dumplings are two distinct styles of dumplings used in various dishes, especially in Southern and comfort food cooking. I prefer biscuit dumplings and include them in this recipe. But here's a comparison between the two for you to make your own decision:

Flat Dumplings:

1. Appearance: Flat dumplings, also known as "slick" or "slippery" dumplings, are thin, wide strips of dough. They resemble noodles more than traditional dumplings.
2. Texture: They have a soft, silky texture and tend to soak up the flavors of the dish they're cooked in.
3. Preparation: Flat dumplings are typically rolled out thinly and cut into rectangular or diamond shapes before being added to simmering stews or soups. They cook directly in the liquid and thicken it.
4. Usage: Commonly used in dishes like chicken and dumplings or in brothy stews.

Biscuit Dumplings:

1. Appearance: Biscuit dumplings are small, doughy balls or discs that resemble biscuits or scones. They have a firmer, doughier texture.
2. Texture: They are more substantial and hold their shape well even after cooking. They provide a bit of a "bite."
3. Preparation: Biscuit dumplings are made from a biscuit-like dough, usually a mixture of flour, fat (such as butter or shortening), and a leavening agent like baking powder. They are dropped onto the boiling broth in the stew.
4. Usage: Commonly used in dishes like chicken pot pie, beef stew, or other casseroles where they are meant to rise and become golden brown on top.

The choice between flat and biscuit dumplings often comes down to personal preference and the specific dish being prepared. Flat dumplings are favored for their ability to thicken and infuse the dish with their flavor, while biscuit dumplings provide a heartier, more substantial texture and appearance. Ultimately, it's a matter of what suits your taste and the culinary style you prefer for a particular meal.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with chicken and dumplings)

Anthony Hamilton's song "Mama Knew Love" pairs exceptionally well with Southern chicken and dumplings because both the song and the dish share a deep sense of nostalgia, comfort, and love. The song's soulful lyrics and Hamilton's heartfelt delivery evoke a warm and sentimental atmosphere, much like the cherished memories associated with a Southern family meal.

Similarly, the hearty and creamy chicken and dumplings dish is a quintessential Southern comfort food that reminds people of the love and care put into home-cooked meals, often made by mothers or grandmothers. So, the combination of "Mama Knew Love" and Southern chicken and dumplings creates a harmonious blend of soulful music and soulful cuisine, both touching the heart and soothing the soul.

Ingredients Needed For Chicken and Dumplings

For the chicken

• Chicken thighs - go with bone-in and skin on for more depth of flavor and richness.
• Ground sage - Sage has a robust, earthy, and slightly peppery flavor that can add depth to the overall taste of your chicken and dumplings. It complements the savory notes of the dish and enhances its overall richness.
• Garlic powder - Garlic powder can help balance and complement the other flavors in the dish, such as the chicken, vegetables, and herbs, creating a harmonious taste profile.

For the Soup

• Garlic Cloves - adds a savory and umami depth to your dish, contributing to the overall richness and complexity of flavors. It can help balance and complement the other flavors in the dish, such as the chicken, vegetables, and herbs, creating a harmonious taste profile.
• Crushed red pepper flakes - Crushed red pepper flakes bring a subtle to moderate level of spiciness to the dish, creating a gentle warmth that can be invigorating and satisfying, especially in a comforting meal like chicken and dumplings.
• Fresh thyme - imparts a fragrant and earthy herbal aroma that enhances the overall experience of the dish, making it more enticing and comforting. Thyme contributes a subtle, woody, and slightly minty flavor that adds depth to the savory taste profile of your chicken and dumplings. It complements the richness of the dish.
• Bay leaves - add a mild, savory flavor to the chicken and dumplings, providing an extra layer of depth and richness to the broth.
• Carrots - bring a natural sweetness to the dish as they cook, which can balance the savory flavors of the chicken and dumplings and add a pleasing contrast.
• Celery - has a mild, slightly earthy, and vegetal flavor that can contribute to the overall complexity of taste, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Yellow onion - when cooked, develop a natural sweetness that can complement the savory elements of the dish, creating a balanced and well-rounded taste profile.
• All-purpose flour
• Apple cider vinegar - Apple cider vinegar is not a traditional ingredient in chicken and dumplings, but if used, it can add some unique elements. It imparts a tangy and slightly acidic flavor to your chicken and dumplings. This acidity can cut through the richness of the dish, adding a bright contrast to the savory flavors.
• Chicken Broth or Chicken Stock -
• Smoked Sweet Paprika - Smoked paprika imparts a smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor that can infuse your dish with a deep and complex taste, reminiscent of smoky barbecue.
• Turmeric - Turmeric is well-known for its intense golden-yellow hue, which can enhance the visual appeal of your dish, making it more attractive and appetizing. But flavorwise it has a subtle earthy and slightly peppery flavor, which can contribute a nuanced depth to the overall taste of your chicken and dumplings.
• Curry powder - brings a complex and exotic flavor profile to your dish, combining a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and more, which can infuse your chicken and dumplings with a delightful and multifaceted taste. This definitely will make things unique in the world of chicken and dumplings as curry is more of a Caribbean or Asian spice ingredient.

For the Dumplings

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder - used to achieve a light and airy texture in the finished dumplings
• Baking soda - Baking soda is not typically used as the primary leavening agent in biscuit dumplings because it doesn't react with liquid and heat the same way that baking powder does. Baking soda requires an acid to activate its leavening properties so it works well with the buttermilk in this recipe.
• Unsalted butter - Butter adds a rich, buttery flavor to the dumplings, making them more savory and delicious. I go with unsalted just keep the salt level checked.
• Buttermilk - has a slightly tangy flavor that adds depth and complexity to the dumplings. The buttermilk when combined with baking powder and soda, helps tenderize the dough. This results in biscuits that are soft, moist, and tender rather than dry and crumbly.
• Flat-leaf parsley - Parsley is not a traditional ingredient in biscuit dumplings. But its presence adds a fresh herbaceous flavor and visual appeal to the dumplings.

How To Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Allow chicken to marinate at least 4 hours for more intensely flavored chicken. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and allow to reach room temperature. Brown the chicken on both sides in butter or olive oil. Don't worry about the nasty bits of chicken skin left behind, as there is all kinds of flavor there.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

Saute onions, carrots, and celery in the same pot. Add seasonings after 2 minutes for more depth of flavor. The heat actually intensifies the spice flavors. 

Step 3: Make the roux

Add the flour to the vegetables and mix well. This thickens the soup and adds flavor as well. Let brown just a tad for about 90 seconds.

Step 4: Make the soup

Add chicken stock, fresh herbs bundle, and bay leaf to the pot and mix well. I season as I go so I add more seasoning here. Add chicken back and simmer for two hours. I like my shredded chicken on the more chunkier side.

Step 5: While chicken cooks, make the biscuit dumplings.

I'm not much for baking or anything baking related so I borrowed a dumpling recipe from Saveur magazine. I have cheated with shortcuts like using ready-made biscuit dough. They work well but aren't as light and fluffy as homemade dumplings. I also like these because they include fresh parsley which adds color, flavor, and aroma. I tweaked the recipe by adding seasoning (paprika and curry powder) to the flour before making the dough. This is optional.

• When making your dough stir slowly
• Mix to the point of just combining all the ingredients, but don't go beyond this

Step 6: Remove the chicken.

Let cool then pull the chicken away from the bones and fat. Discard the latter two, then chop the chicken and add back to the pot

Step 7: Add the dumplings and cook covered 20 minutes

Drop dumplings into the pot using your hands or an ice cream scoop. Cover with the lid and let simmer with the dumpling dough for 20 minutes

What To Serve With Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings are a hearty and comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a side salad, steamed green vegetables like peas or broccoli, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Mashed potatoes or coleslaw can also complement the dish nicely. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Southern chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:

Collard Greens

• Why: The slightly bitter and savory flavor of collard greens complements the rich and creamy chicken and dumplings.
• Variation: Cook with smoked ham hocks or bacon for extra flavor.

Cornbread

• Why: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Variation: Add cheese or jalapeños for added flavor.

Green Beans

• Why: Lightly cooked green beans add a fresh and crisp contrast to the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
• Variation: Sauté with garlic and a touch of olive oil.

Salad

• Why: A light and crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Variation: Include mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette or a classic wedge salad with blue cheese dressing.

Roasted Vegetables

• Why: Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or bell peppers add a sweet and savory touch to the meal.
• Variation: Season with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pickled Vegetables

• Why: Pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast to the rich, creamy chicken and dumplings.
• Variation: Try pickled cucumbers, carrots, or beets.

These sides will enhance your Southern chicken and dumplings experience, adding a variety of textures and flavors to your meal.

Southern Chicken and Dumpling Cooking Tips

• The roux should make this thick enough, but if at the end of cooking you prefer it thicker make a slurry of corn starch and water and then add small amounts to the broth.
• For the best flavor use darker chicken pieces with bone-in. These do wonder for dialing up the flavor.
• If you have the time, use homemade chicken stock. If not then go for low-sodium store-bought.
• To save time use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just pull it apart and add to the broth
• For smoother/creamier chicken and dumplings add heavy cream
• Tie fresh herbs together before adding to the broth. This makes it easy to remove and ensure no stems are left behind.
• Start with Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken (whole, cut-up, or boneless) and high-quality vegetables to enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Chop vegetables as evenly as possible. This will allow everything to cook evenly and at the same rate.
• Sear the Chicken: If using bone-in chicken, start by searing it in a hot pot to add depth of flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
• Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they're tender. This base provides a rich flavor for the dish.
• Simmer Slowly: Add chicken broth and return the seared chicken to the pot. Simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
• Season Well: Season your chicken and dumplings with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices to achieve the desired flavor profile.
• Dumpling Dough: When making the dumpling dough, handle it gently and avoid overmixing to keep the dumplings tender.
• Drop Dumplings Evenly: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough evenly onto the simmering liquid. Make sure they don't touch each other so they can cook properly.
• Cover and Steam: Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam for about 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it allows the dumplings to cook through properly.
• Adjust Consistency: If your chicken and dumplings are too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If too thin, let it simmer with the lid off to reduce and thicken.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Serve Hot: Chicken and dumplings are best served hot, straight from the pot. Enjoy the hearty, comforting meal!
• Make Southern Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions for Southern chicken and dumplings, whether due to dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some alternatives you can use:

Chicken

• Turkey: Use turkey thighs or breasts for a leaner option with similar flavor.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative. Season and cook thoroughly before adding to the dish.

Dumplings

• Biscuits: Canned or homemade biscuits can be used as a quick alternative. Cut into pieces and drop into the broth.
• Store-Bought Dumplings: Many grocery stores offer frozen dumplings that can be used as a substitute.

Chicken Broth

• Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth for a lighter version or if you're making a vegetarian dish.
• Water: If you don’t have broth, use water and add extra seasoning to compensate for flavor.

Milk or Cream

• Half-and-Half: A lighter alternative to cream that still adds creaminess.
• Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess without the richness of heavy cream.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free version.

Vegetables

• Carrots and Celery: Substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, parsnips, or peas.
• Frozen Vegetables: For convenience, use frozen mixed vegetables.

Herbs and Seasonings

• Herbs: Substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs (use about one-third of the amount) or vice versa.
• Spices: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For example, use paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.

By using these substitutions, you can adapt your Southern chicken and dumplings recipe to fit your dietary needs or ingredient availability while still enjoying a comforting and delicious meal.

Make This Southern Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Remember that the art of making chicken and dumplings is not just a recipe; it's a symphony of traditions and love passed down through generations. Just as the greatest soul music stirs the soul, so does this dish, warm and comforting, offer solace and joy with every bite.

May your kitchen always be a stage for heartfelt gatherings, where the food you cook carries the spirit of the South and the legacy of love. So, serve up a heaping plate of these Southern chicken and dumplings, let the soothing melodies of soul music linger in your heart, and share the love through each soulful, savory mouthful.

If you make this Southern chicken and dumplings recipe, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

You can also keep up with my food exploits as well as original recipes! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. If you like any of the music you find on the site, visit me at Spotify to find curated monthly playlists.

For other classic Southern dishes try this New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice or Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey.

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