Feather Dumplings for Chicken and Dumplings

By Muhammad Faizan

Feather Dumplings for Chicken and Dumplings

Description

Feather dumplings are light, fluffy, and tender — a classic Southern comfort food often served in hearty chicken stew or broth. Unlike dense drop dumplings, feather dumplings have a delicate, pillowy texture that soaks up the savory flavor of the chicken gravy. Perfect for cozy family dinners or cold-weather comfort meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional, adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • ¾ cup milk (add a bit more if needed)

  • 3 tablespoons melted butter (or shortening)

  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or chives for flavor

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.

  2. Add Wet Ingredients:
    Pour in melted butter and milk gradually, stirring until a soft dough forms. It should be moist but not sticky. If too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time.

  3. Prepare Broth or Chicken Base:
    Bring your chicken stew, soup, or broth to a gentle boil. Make sure there’s enough liquid for the dumplings to cook in.

  4. Form the Dumplings:
    Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the simmering broth. Avoid overcrowding — dumplings expand as they cook.

  5. Simmer Gently:
    Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes.
    Do not lift the lid — steam is key to making them light and fluffy.

  6. Check for Doneness:
    A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. The dumplings should be puffed and tender.

  7. Serve Hot:
    Spoon dumplings into bowls with broth and chicken. Sprinkle with black pepper and herbs if desired.

Servings

Makes 4 to 6 servings (depending on portion size).

Recipe Notes

  • For extra flavor, substitute part of the milk with chicken broth.

  • Use self-rising flour and skip baking powder for convenience.

  • Dumplings can be made ahead and refrigerated for a few hours before cooking.

  • Over-stirring the dough can make dumplings dense — mix just until combined.

Tips for Perfect Feather Dumplings

  1. Keep the dough soft — too much flour makes dumplings heavy.

  2. Don’t peek while cooking; steam ensures fluffiness.

  3. If you want richer flavor, cook dumplings directly in the chicken gravy rather than water or plain broth.

  4. Add a pinch of garlic powder or herbs for a flavor twist.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

(approximate, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 240 kcal

  • Protein: 6g

  • Carbohydrates: 30g

  • Fat: 10g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 480mg

Health Benefits

  • Made from simple, wholesome ingredients.

  • Can be adjusted to be low-sodium or low-fat.

  • Comforting food that supports emotional well-being and stress relief.

  • Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

Q&A Section

Q: Can I make feather dumplings without milk?
A: Yes! Substitute milk with chicken broth or plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

Q: Why are my dumplings dense?
A: Overmixing or cooking with the lid open can make them tough. Stir dough lightly and keep the pot covered.

Q: Can I freeze leftover dumplings?
A: Yes. Freeze in an airtight container with broth. Reheat gently on the stove.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum added for similar results.

Q: What’s the difference between feather and drop dumplings?
A: Feather dumplings are lighter and fluffier, while drop dumplings are denser and heartier.

Leave a Comment