Creamy Alabama Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A Comforting Southern Classic

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings to wrap you in Southern comfort. Rich, creamy, and packed with tender chicken and pillowy dumplings, this Creamy Alabama Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is the perfect way to bring a taste of the South to your table. Growing up in Alabama, this dish was a family staple at gatherings, Sunday dinners, and on chilly evenings when only a big bowl of something hearty could soothe the soul.

Photo byNick Davies

I’m excited to share this delicious recipe with you. If you’re craving some comfort, this chicken and dumplings recipe is just the thing. Trust me, you’ll want to follow me for more cozy recipes like this one!

A Taste of Alabama’s Culinary History

Alabama’s food culture is deeply rooted in tradition, and chicken and dumplings is no exception. This dish has long been a Southern favorite, especially in the rural South where simple ingredients like flour, chicken, and broth create a filling meal that can feed a family. Each bite tells the story of gathering around the dinner table with loved ones, making the meal a perfect way to bring people together.

Recipe: Creamy Alabama Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (preferably from a whole chicken)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3/4 cup milk
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then add the bay leaf. Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Make the Dumplings: While the broth simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the milk, stirring just until a soft dough forms.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the simmering broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
4. Drop the Dumplings: Using a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the pot, spacing them out to give room for them to puff up. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
5. Final Touch: Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• For an extra rich broth, use homemade chicken stock or add a bouillon cube to boost flavor.
• If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken can speed up the process without compromising the flavor.
• Pair this dish with a side of sautéed greens or biscuits to complete the meal.

Variations:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the dumplings.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and potatoes for a filling alternative.

What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings

While this dish is hearty enough to stand alone, pairing it with a light salad or roasted vegetables can create a well-rounded meal. If you’re going for a full Southern feast, serve these dumplings alongside crispy fried okra or a slice of sweet cornbread.