Comforting North Carolina Chicken Pastry Recipe To Savor

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings to bring comfort on a chilly day. This North Carolina Chicken Pastry recipe is a classic that fills the home with delectable aromas and brings everyone to the dinner table. It’s a dish that embodies the comforting essence of Southern cooking.

Delicious Southern Chicken and Dumplings

This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for sharing. Below you will find the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful meal, as well as the step-by-step instructions to guide you through the cooking process.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
6 cups of water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a large pot, place the whole chicken and cover it with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook the chicken for about 1 hour or until fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Reserve the broth in the pot.
While the chicken cools, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add in the milk and melted butter, mixing until a dough forms.
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the reserved broth.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Bring the broth back to a gentle boil.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering broth, ensuring they do not touch. Cover the pot tightly and let the dumplings steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
If using, add the frozen peas towards the end of the cooking time. Season the dish to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional dish with family and friends!

This North Carolina Chicken Pastry is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes warmth and togetherness. Gather around the table and savor every bite!