Save to Pinterest This Southern Chicken and Dumpling Comfort Skillet brings back memories of cozy Sunday suppers in my grandmother’s kitchen. Fluffy dumplings soak up a creamy chicken gravy packed with comforting flavors. Whether you are craving a hearty family meal or a nostalgic taste of the South, this one-pan wonder is pure comfort with every bite.
When I first made this recipe for friends on a chilly evening, everyone found themselves reaching for seconds. Now it is my go-to dish when I want to bring people together over something truly satisfying.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: delivers juicy flavor and stays tender
- Yellow onion diced: adds a rich sweetness as the base
- Carrots and celery chopped: bring color and classic Southern aromatics
- Chicken broth: use low sodium for better control over seasoning
- Heavy cream: makes the gravy luxuriously silky without overpowering
- Self-rising flour: creates dumplings that are light and fluffy every time
- Whole milk: ensures moisture and richness in the dumpling dough
- Fresh parsley chopped: for a burst of color and freshness at the end
- Salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning every component
- Butter: opt for high quality for best flavor and a golden gravy
- If choosing store-bought broth: look for one with minimal additives for a cleaner taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken and Vegetables:
- Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces This helps them cook quickly and evenly Dice the onion and chop the carrots and celery to similar sizes for the perfect bite
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat Add onion carrots and celery Cook for eight to ten minutes stirring often until the vegetables are soft and the onion is golden This builds incredible flavor
- Brown the Chicken:
- Nestle the chicken pieces into the vegetables and season generously with salt and pepper Cook until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked about five minutes This gives the finished dish more dimension
- Make the Gravy:
- Pour in the chicken broth scraping up any browned bits from the pan Simmer for five minutes Whisk in heavy cream and bring back to a low simmer for a velvety base
- Mix the Dumpling Dough:
- In a bowl stir together self-rising flour with a pinch of salt and freshly chopped parsley Pour in milk and stir just until a shaggy dough forms Overmixing can make dumplings tough
- Drop Dumplings and Finish Cooking:
- Using two spoons gently drop golf-ball sized mounds of dough over the simmering chicken and gravy Cover and cook on low for fifteen minutes The steam will puff up the dumplings perfectly
- Final Bake for Golden Dumplings:
- Uncover the skillet and transfer to a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about five more minutes This gives the dumpling tops just a touch of golden color
- Sprinkle with Fresh Parsley:
- Remove from oven and scatter fresh parsley over everything for a fresh finish Let it rest for a few minutes before serving
Save to Pinterest My favorite ingredient is the fresh parsley because it brings such brightness to the finished skillet. I will never forget my uncle sneaking extra dumplings straight from the pan—now I always make a double batch.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will keep well for up to three days Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to keep everything creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday twist Swap in gluten free self rising flour for an allergy friendly version Add a handful of frozen peas with the carrots and celery for extra color
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with extra fresh parsley on top A side of tangy vinegar greens or a crisp garden salad balances the richness For a true Southern touch offer with homemade sweet tea or a fluffy biscuit
Cultural Note
Southern Chicken and Dumplings has long been served as a stick to your ribs meal in the South Born out of necessity this dish uses simple farm ingredients to feed a family with warmth and love My recipe pays homage to those traditions while making it accessible for busy lives
Save to Pinterest Bring a little Southern comfort to your table and let this skillet become a new family favorite. The steam-puffed dumplings and creamy chicken will warm you to your core every time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are ideal for tender, juicy results in this skillet dish.
- → Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dumpling dough ahead and refrigerate until ready to add to the simmering skillet.
- → How do I ensure fluffy dumplings?
Avoid overmixing the dough and keep the lid on the skillet while the dumplings cook for best texture.
- → Are there vegetable additions suggestions?
Carrots, celery, and peas pair well, bringing extra color and flavor to the dish.
- → Can I use a different skillet type?
Cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillets retain heat and help evenly cook chicken and dumplings.