Introduction

If you are craving a hearty and comforting meal that brings the best of Southern cooking to your table, look no further than Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings. This dish is a classic, combining perfectly crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with soft, pillowy dumplings soaked in a rich, flavorful broth. It is the ultimate homemade comfort food that satisfies every craving.

In this post, I will walk you through how to make the best Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings from scratch. With step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and all the essential details, you will have a foolproof recipe that delivers incredible taste and texture every time.

Close-up of Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings on a white plate — Savor the delightful combination of crispy fried chicken and tender dumplings in this comforting dish

What is this Recipe

Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings is a combination of two Southern favorites, fried chicken and chicken and dumplings. The crispy fried chicken is cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, while the dumplings are made from a simple dough that absorbs all the delicious flavors from the dish. Together, they create a satisfying, indulgent meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Essential Ingredients

To create the best Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings, you will need these key ingredients

For the Fried Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
Buttermilk
All-purpose flour

Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder

Salt
Black pepper
Cayenne pepper optional for spice

Baking powder
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Dumplings

All-purpose flour

Baking powder
Salt
Whole milk

Unsalted butter melted

For the Broth

Chicken broth
Whole milk or heavy cream

Dried thyme
Parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh Ingredients for Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings

Alternative Ingredients

If you need substitutions, here are some great alternatives

You can use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking process
Substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice

Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free
Try almond milk or oat milk as a delicious dairy-free substitute

Prep and Cook Time Table

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings	Yield
20 minutes	40 minutes	1 hour	4 servings	4 plates

Key Features of This Recipe

Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken

Soft, tender dumplings that soak up the flavor
Rich, creamy broth for extra comfort
Perfect balance of textures and flavors

Easy-to-follow recipe for home cooks

Nutrition Facts Per Serving

Calories	Protein	Fat	Carbohydrates	Sodium
650 kcal	38g	28g	55g	780mg

Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings

Creating the perfect Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings requires a balance of technique and patience. Follow these detailed steps to ensure you get crispy, flavorful chicken and soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 1 : Marinate the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step to achieving juicy and flavorful meat. Start by placing your chicken thighs and drumsticks in a large bowl. Pour buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are fully coated. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds a slight tanginess, making the chicken extra juicy. Let it sit for at least one hour. For the best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This step ensures deep flavor penetration and tenderness.

Step 2 : Prepare the Coating

The coating is what gives the fried chicken its signature crispy texture. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This mixture creates a flavorful crust that enhances the chicken’s taste. Take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, even coating. Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the flour adhere better, reducing the chances of it falling off during frying.

Step 3 : Fry the Chicken

Use a cast-iron skillet for the best frying results. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to cover at least half of each piece of chicken. Carefully place the coated chicken into the skillet, skin side down. Fry each piece for six to seven minutes per side, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a deep golden-brown color. Once fried, remove the chicken and let it rest on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.

Step 4 : Make the Dumplings

While the chicken rests, prepare the dumplings. In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the dumplings dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 5 : Prepare the Broth and Cook the Dumplings

In a large pot, bring chicken broth, whole milk, thyme, and parsley to a gentle simmer. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth. Do not stir too much, as the dumplings need space to expand and cook properly. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 10 minutes without lifting the lid. This allows the steam to cook them evenly, creating a soft and fluffy texture.

Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings

Step 6 : Serve and Enjoy

To serve, plate the crispy fried chicken and ladle the tender dumplings with broth over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. For the most delicious taste and optimal texture, serve right away while still warm.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Dish

Making Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings is an art. Here are expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for the Best Crispy Texture

A cast-iron skillet distributes heat evenly, helping to achieve the crispiest crust on your chicken. It also maintains a consistent frying temperature, preventing the oil from cooling down too much when you add the chicken.

Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least one hour is essential for tender, juicy meat. Buttermilk not only tenderizes but also enhances the chicken’s flavor. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Let the Coated Chicken Rest Before Frying

After dredging the chicken in flour, allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better and prevents it from falling off during frying, resulting in an even crispier crust.

Maintain the Right Oil Temperature

Keeping the oil at 350°F (175°C) ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without burning. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.

Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet

Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain a steady heat level and ensure each piece cooks evenly.

Rest the Fried Chicken on a Wire Rack

Instead of placing fried chicken on paper towels, use a wire rack. This allows excess oil to drip away while keeping the crust crispy. Paper towels can trap steam, making the chicken soggy.

Do Not Overwork the Dumpling Dough

Overmixing the dumpling dough develops gluten, making the dumplings chewy instead of soft and tender. Mix only until combined, and avoid kneading.

Simmer the Dumplings Gently

Boiling the broth too aggressively can break apart the dumplings. Keep the heat on a gentle simmer to allow them to cook through without disintegrating.

Keep the Lid Closed While Cooking Dumplings

Trapping steam is essential for fluffy dumplings. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this lets heat escape and disrupts the cooking process.

By following these tips, you will achieve the crispiest fried chicken and the softest, most flavorful dumplings, creating a truly delicious and comforting meal

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Classic Southern comfort food
Perfect balance of crispy and tender textures

Rich, flavorful broth that enhances every bite
Easy to make and incredibly satisfying

What Makes This Recipe Unique

Combines two Southern classics in one dish

Perfectly crispy fried chicken with ultra-tender dumplings
Balanced seasoning for deep, delicious flavors

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time ?
Yes, you can fry the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness

Can I bake instead of frying the chicken ?
Yes, bake at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius for about thirty to thirty-five minutes until crispy

What is the best way to store leftovers ?
Keep it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe ?
Yes, but frying fresh chicken gives the best crispy texture

Conclusion

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings together crispy, golden-brown fried chicken and soft, pillowy dumplings soaked in a rich, flavorful broth, Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings is the perfect recipe for you. With its perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating and tender, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings, this dish is a true Southern classic that’s guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this homemade favorite will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see your delicious take on this ultimate comfort dish!

The Best Crispy Skillet Fried Chicken with Tender Dumplings Recipe

Linda

This comforting Southern dish combines crispy fried chicken and tender, fluffy dumplings soaked in a rich broth. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of crispy textures and savory flavors

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Course Comfort Food, Main Course

Cuisine Southern

Servings 4 people

Notes

Equipment

Cast-iron skillet

Large mixing bowl
Large pot
Measuring spoons and cups

Kitchen thermometer (optional)