Annie’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: Easy N’ Southern

Eating homemade chicken and dumplings always brings back cozy memories. Annie’s unique recipe is no exception. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners.

This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, dumplings, and a savory broth, creating the ultimate comfort food.

On a chilly evening, there’s nothing better than gathering around a table with loved ones and enjoying a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings.

By following this recipe, you’ll be able to make a delicious meal that everyone will love. Plus, you can share your cooking adventures on social media, like Facebook and Pinterest, to inspire others.

Not only is this dish satisfying, but the process of making it is enjoyable too.

From preparing the chicken to dropping in the dumplings, you’ll find each step rewarding. This is a recipe that you’ll want to keep in your repertoire and pass down through the generations, making new memories with each batch.

Key Takeaways

• This recipe combines chicken, dumplings, and a savory broth.
• Perfect for sharing on social media like Facebook and Pinterest.
• Each step in the recipe is simple and rewarding.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

When making Annie’s Chicken and Dumplings, it’s important to know what ingredients you’ll need.

This dish combines tender meats, fresh vegetables, flavorful herbs, hearty dumplings, and rich broths to create a comforting meal.

Meats and Alternatives

The foundation of this dish is the meat. I typically use a whole chicken or chicken breasts.

If you want a quicker option, you can use canned cooked chicken or even canned cream of chicken soup for added richness.

After cooking the chicken, I like to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This makes the chicken easier to eat and helps it blend well with the dumplings.

Vegetables and Herbs

Fresh vegetables add flavor and nutrients. I always include celery, onion, and carrot in my recipe.

You can also throw in some peas for extra texture and sweetness.

Herbs like dill and black pepper bring a subtle complexity to the dish. Seasoning with pepper and salt is essential to enhance the overall flavor.

Dumplings and Dough

The dumplings are what make this dish special. I prefer using Anne’s frozen dumplings as they save time and have a great texture.

If you’re up for making them from scratch, flour, baking powder, and a bit of fat (like butter or lard) will do the trick.

Cutting the dough into small pieces helps them cook evenly and absorb the broth better. Properly cooked dumplings should be tender yet firm.

Liquids and Broths

A rich chicken broth forms the base of the soup. I usually buy low-sodium chicken stock and then add extra salt and pepper to taste.

For a creamy texture, I mix in cream of chicken soup. This thickens the soup and adds depth.

You might also want to add a little water to balance the creaminess if it gets too thick.

Using these ingredients ensures you achieve that comforting, hearty taste that Southern Chicken and Dumplings are known for.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken
• 12 cups water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1 package of Anne’s dumplings
• Optional: Bay leaves

Instructions:

I begin by placing a whole chicken in a large pot with 12 cups of water. I add the salt, pepper, celery, and onion. I also add two chicken bouillon cubes for extra flavor. I bring this to a low boil over medium heat.

I let it cook until the chicken’s meat begins to fall off the bone. This typically takes about an hour. When the chicken is done, I remove it from the pot and let it cool.

Once the chicken has cooled, I remove the meat and set it aside.

Next, I bring the broth back up to a boil. I take Anne’s dumplings out of the package. I separate the frozen dumplings and drop eight to ten into the boiling broth, stirring as I add them.

When the broth comes back to a boil, I add more of Anne’s dumplings, continuing to stir. I let the dumplings cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are tender.

Finally, I add the shredded chicken back into the pot. I reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

For a Southern touch, I sometimes add a couple of bay leaves before simmering.

Tips:

• I find that using Anne’s dumplings is a great shortcut and ensures perfect texture every time.
• Seasonings like salt and pepper can be adjusted to taste.
• For an e-z chicken n dumplings recipe, using pre-made dumplings saves prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve compiled some common questions and answers to help you make the best chicken and dumplings. These tips cover everything from using frozen dumplings to ensuring your dumplings are perfect every time.

How can I make chicken and dumplings using frozen dumplings?

To make chicken and dumplings using frozen dumplings, start by boiling your broth. While the broth is heating, separate the dumplings.

Add a few at a time, stirring to prevent sticking. Cook until they float and are tender.

What’s the secret to getting fluffy dumplings every time?

The secret to fluffy dumplings lies in handling the dough gently.

Use self-rising flour for the perfect rise. Mix the dough until just combined without overworking it. When cutting, make sure they are of even size to cook uniformly.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for making chicken and dumplings?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred the meat and add it to your stew near the end of cooking.

This saves time and adds a rich flavor without the need to cook raw chicken from scratch.

What are some easy ways to make chicken and dumplings at home?

An easy way to make chicken and dumplings is by using pre-made or frozen dumplings. Add them to a homemade chicken stew with vegetables like carrots and celery.

This reduces prep time while delivering a homemade taste.

How do I prevent my dumplings from falling apart?

To prevent dumplings from falling apart, avoid over-stirring once they are added to the broth.

Keep the broth at a gentle boil, not a vigorous one. This helps maintain the dumplings’ shape and integrity during cooking.

What’s the difference between using broth and stock in chicken and dumplings?

Using broth results in a lighter, more straightforward flavor. In contrast, stock is made by simmering bones and has a richer and more complex taste.

Both work well, so it depends on your preference for either a subtle or robust flavor.