Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings just happens to be that familiar, warm hug in a bowl that no one can quite beat. There is simply no way: Filling, rich, and comforting, like a hug in a bowl-the warm sensation is something home-cooked and would probably gather everyone, whether lunchtime or dinner. Most importantly, it’s not difficult at all: All the very basic ingredients are required.

What is Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings All About?

A classic Southern recipe is Brenda Gantt’s Chicken and Dumplings, characterized by tender chicken combined with a rich and savory broth, and all comes together with light, fluffy dumplings. The warmness of Brenda Gantt’s cooking style has immortalized the dish as all food, while not food, but essentially traditional. The flavors offer a comforting balance of creamy and homestyle tastes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Broth

• 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs)
• 10 cups of water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup shortening (or butter)

Instructions

1. Cooking chicken: Take the chicken in a very big pot containing water, onion, celery, carrots, salt, and black pepper. And just boil until the chicken meat is tender (about 1 hour).
2. To shred the chicken: Take off and cool the chicken meat and shred it, then discard the bones and the skin.
3. Strained broth: Exclude vegetables in the broth, but retain the broth clear.
4. Dumpling dough: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in shortening until crumbly. Adjoining buttermilk and stir while the dough forms.
5. Roll and cut dumplings: Roll thin on a floured surface and cut into strips or squares.
6. Dumplings’ cook method: Bring broth to a gentle boil. Drop dumplings one at a time, stirring gently. Cook 10-12 minutes.
7. Gives back on the chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken into the pot, letting it simmer for five minutes.
8. Serve hot, topped with cracked pepper.

Storage Tips

• Store in the fridge for no more than 3 days.
• Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
• Do not freeze; as dumplings get mushy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve cornbread on the side to get the real Southern meal.
• Include some green beans or collard greens for chewing balance.
• Serve it with sweet tea for an authentic Southern experience.

Pro Tips & Variations

• A richer broth is achieved by substituting chicken broth for water.
• Fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, can offer an additional flavor note.
• Consider adding a splash of heavy cream for a creamier broth.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken instead of whole chicken?

Yes, using the whole chicken does enhance the flavor of the broth.

2. Are dumplings supposed to be fluffy or flat?

Brenda’s style is for flat dumplings, but if you want fluffy ones, feel free to make them thicker.

3. Can I make it without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 3/4 cup of milk and 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice.

4. Are Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings spicy?

No, other than optional cayenne for heat, this dish is mild and comforting.

Try It!

Brenda’s chicken and dumplings is the kind of food that brings comfort with every bite. Simple yet soul-soothing, it is a meal to be prepared for family dinners or just on a day when something warm and filling is needed. Try it once, and you will know why this recipe is a Southern classic.