What goes good with chicken and dumplings? - Chef's Resource (2024)

What goes good with chicken and dumplings?

Chicken and dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but it can also be enhanced by pairing it with the right side dishes. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there are plenty of options to complement this classic dish.

**So, what goes good with chicken and dumplings?** Here are some delicious ideas to consider:

1.

Green Salad:

A crisp green salad with fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of chicken and dumplings.
2.

Steamed Vegetables:

Lightly steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans, can add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
3.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Roasting Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out their natural sweetness and provides a flavorful side dish.
4.

Mashed Potatoes:

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to chicken and dumplings, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
5.

Cornbread:

The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs well with the flavors of chicken and dumplings.
6.

Butter Beans:

Simmered butter beans seasoned with herbs and spices add a creamy and wholesome element to the meal.
7.

Collard Greens:

Braised collard greens cooked with bacon or smoked ham hock make for a tasty and traditional Southern side.
8.

Coleslaw:

The tangy and crunchy coleslaw serves as a refreshing counterpart to the rich flavors of the main dish.
9.

Sweet Potato Casserole:

A creamy and sweet sweet potato casserole provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken and dumplings.
10.

Macaroni and Cheese:

Indulge in the classic combination of macaroni and cheese alongside your chicken and dumplings for the ultimate comfort food feast.
11.

Garlic Bread:

The garlicky and buttery flavors of garlic bread complement the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
12.

Roasted Root Vegetables:

Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips offer a rustic and earthy side dish.

Now let’s address some additional commonly asked questions about chicken and dumplings:

1. Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, chicken and dumplings can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the dumplings separately from the stew to maintain their texture.

2. Can I use pre-made dumplings for chicken and dumplings?

Absolutely! Pre-made dumplings from the store can be a convenient option if you’re short on time or prefer not to make them from scratch.

3. Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken, but using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces will add more flavor to the dish.

4. Can I make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker?

Yes, chicken and dumplings can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients, except for the dumplings, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the dumplings during the final 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I use biscuits instead of dumplings?

Yes, if you prefer a biscuit-like texture, you can use biscuit dough instead of traditional dumplings. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough onto the simmering stew and cook until they are cooked through.

6. Can I make chicken and dumplings with leftover chicken?

Certainly! Leftover cooked chicken can be used to make quick and easy chicken and dumplings. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the stew.

7. Can I add other vegetables to chicken and dumplings?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as peas, corn, celery, or even mushrooms, to the stew to customize it to your taste.

8. Can I make chicken and dumplings gluten-free?

Yes, you can make chicken and dumplings gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or a combination of alternative flours to make the dumplings.

9. Can I use a different type of meat for chicken and dumplings?

Absolutely! While chicken is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other meats, such as turkey or even pork, to create your own variation of this comforting dish.

10. Can I make chicken and dumplings spicy?

Certainly! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the stew to give it a spicy kick.

11. Can I add dairy to chicken and dumplings?

Yes, adding a bit of cream or milk to the stew can make it richer and creamier. However, this is an optional step, and the dish is delicious even without the addition of dairy.

12. Can I make chicken and dumplings vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of chicken and dumplings, you can swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or a variety of vegetables like mushrooms and carrots, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

So, whether you choose to pair chicken and dumplings with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or indulgent sides like mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.