Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings is a popular comfort food dish that is a staple in many American households. The dish is known for its tender and flavorful chicken, soft and fluffy dumplings, and rich, savory broth. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cook Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Understanding Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s understand what Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings is all about. The dish is a type of chicken stew that is made with pre-cooked chicken, canned soup, and biscuit or dumpling mix. The pre-cooked chicken is usually obtained from a can or a rotisserie chicken, while the canned soup provides the rich and creamy base of the broth. The biscuit or dumpling mix is used to make the soft and fluffy dumplings that are a hallmark of this dish.
The Origins of Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings
The origins of Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the Southern United States. The dish is thought to have been created by home cooks who wanted to make a quick and easy meal using readily available ingredients. The name “Sweet Sue” is believed to have been derived from a popular advertising campaign for a brand of canned chicken.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 can of pre-cooked chicken (such as Swanson or Chicken of the Sea)
- 2 cans of condensed cream of chicken soup (such as Campbell’s)
- 1 can of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 package of biscuit or dumpling mix (such as Bisquick or Mary B’s)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
You will also need the following equipment:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A measuring cup
- A can opener
- A whisk or spoon for mixing
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients is crucial to making a delicious Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose a high-quality pre-cooked chicken: Look for a brand that is known for its tender and flavorful chicken.
- Use a reputable brand of canned soup: Campbell’s is a popular choice for condensed cream of chicken soup.
- Select a biscuit or dumpling mix that is easy to use: Bisquick or Mary B’s are good options for making soft and fluffy dumplings.
Cooking the Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings
Now that we have discussed the ingredients and equipment needed, let’s move on to the cooking process.
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
To prepare the broth, combine the canned cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water in a large pot or Dutch oven. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Add the butter and stir until it is melted.
Tips for Making a Rich and Savory Broth
- Use a combination of canned soup and chicken broth to create a rich and savory broth.
- Add a little bit of butter to enrich the flavor of the broth.
- Whisk the mixture well to ensure that it is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the pre-cooked chicken to the broth and stir until it is heated through. If you are using a can of pre-cooked chicken, you can skip this step.
Tips for Cooking the Chicken
- <strong_USE a can of pre-cooked chicken to save time and effort.
- <strong_Heat the chicken through to ensure that it is hot and steaming.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
To make the dumplings, combine the biscuit or dumpling mix and water in a bowl. Mix the ingredients until they form a dough. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the surface of the broth.
Tips for Making Soft and Fluffy Dumplings
- <strong_USE a biscuit or dumpling mix that is easy to use and produces soft and fluffy dumplings.
- <strong_Drop the dumplings by spoonfuls onto the surface of the broth to create a uniform size and shape.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Cover the pot or Dutch oven with a lid and cook the dumplings over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.
Tips for Cooking the Dumplings
- <strong_Cover the pot or Dutch oven with a lid to trap the steam and cook the dumplings evenly.
- <strong_Cook the dumplings over medium heat to prevent burning or scorching.
Serving and Garnishing
Once the Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings is cooked, it’s time to serve and garnish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- <strong_Serve the dish hot, straight from the pot or Dutch oven.
- <strong_Garnish with chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a pop of color and freshness.
| Servings | Calories per serving | Total cooking time |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 | 400-500 | 30-40 minutes |
Variations and Substitutions
While the recipe provided is a classic version of Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings, there are several variations and substitutions that you can try:
- <strong_USE different types of chicken, such as shredded or diced chicken, to change the texture and flavor of the dish.
- <strong_Add vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to add color and nutrients to the dish.
Conclusion
Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can create a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic American dish.
What makes Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings a comforting dish?
Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish due to its warm, soothing, and savory flavors that evoke feelings of nostalgia and relaxation. The combination of tender chicken, soft and fluffy dumplings, and a rich, flavorful broth makes this dish a perfect remedy for a cold winter’s day or a comforting meal when feeling under the weather.
The dish’s comforting nature also stems from its simplicity and familiarity. The ingredients and cooking methods used to prepare Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings are often reminiscent of traditional home-cooked meals, making it a go-to dish for those seeking a sense of comfort and security.
What type of chicken is best suited for Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings?
For Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings, it’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. Boneless chicken breast provides leaner meat, which absorbs flavors well, while boneless chicken thighs offer juicier and tenderer meat. Avoid using bone-in chicken, as it requires more time to cook and may make the broth cloudy.
You can also use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to make Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings. This can save time and effort, especially if you have cooked chicken on hand. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the pot with the vegetables and broth.
Can I use store-bought dumpling mix for Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings?
While store-bought dumpling mix can be convenient, it’s not the best option for Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings. Homemade dumplings, made from a mixture of flour, baking powder, and shortening, provide a more authentic and tender texture. Store-bought mix may contain preservatives and artificial flavorings, which can affect the overall taste and quality of the dish.
Making homemade dumplings from scratch is relatively simple and only requires a few ingredients. The process of mixing and kneading the dough can be therapeutic, and the end result is well worth the effort. If you’re short on time, consider preparing the dumpling dough ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming tough and dense?
To prevent the dumplings from becoming tough and dense, it’s essential to not overmix the dough. Mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then stop mixing. Overmixing can cause the dough to become tough and dense, leading to unpleasant dumplings.
Another key step is to not roll out the dough too thinly. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness, which will help the dumplings cook evenly and prevent them from becoming too thick and dense. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot with too many dumplings, as this can cause them to stick together and become tough.
Can I make Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker. This method is perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to monitor the dish on the stovetop. Simply brown the chicken and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
When making Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker, it’s best to add the dumplings towards the end of the cooking time. This will prevent them from becoming mushy and overcooked. Simply drop the dumplings by spoonfuls onto the surface of the stew and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
How do I store leftover Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings?
Leftover Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When refrigerating, make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When freezing, it’s best to divide the dish into individual portions to make reheating easier.
When reheating leftover Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings, make sure to heat it to a minimum of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the dish on the stovetop, in the microwave, or in the oven. Add a little water or broth if the dish has thickened too much during refrigeration or freezing.
Can I make Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings for a large group of people?
Yes, you can easily make Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings for a large group of people by scaling up the ingredients. Simply multiply the ingredients according to the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pot and the number of servings.
When making Sweet Sue Chicken and Dumplings for a large group, consider using a large stockpot or Dutch oven. This will allow you to cook the dish in one batch, rather than in multiple smaller batches. You can also prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in separate containers to make assembly and cooking easier.