Nana's Chicken Pastry

One of the few things I wanted to learn how to cook from my Mother-in-Law. Truly a piece of southern heaven.

Nana's Chicken Pastry
Nana's Chicken Pastry

One of the few things I wanted to learn how to cook from my Mother-in-Law. Truly a piece of southern heaven.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Served Person: 8
  • Carbohydrate 10.169952597459 g
  • Cholesterol 48.5006750570578 mg
  • Fat 10.2213300614176 g
  • Fiber 0.368343244690829 g
  • Protein 11.1726060515069 g
  • Saturated Fat 3.09352830212996 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (73g)
  • Sodium 255.497801768808 mg
  • Sugar 9.80160935276814 g
  • Trans Fat 0.658171926429185 g
  • Calories 181 calories

Step-by-step

  • Boil the chicken thighs in water with salt until cooked through.
  • Remove from pot with tongs or strainer, reserving all liquid.
  • Set thighs aside to cool, keep the liquid warm.
  • Make Pastry: Work an egg-sized lump of shortening into flour.
  • Add milk a little at a time to blend.
  • Mix with your hands. Dough should be smooth and silky.
  • Remove bones and skin from chicken.
  • Return the meat to the pot.
  • Add more water if needed.
  • Add pepper and possibly more salt.
  • Return to a boil.
  • Roll dough out flat (like a pie crust).
  • Cut into 1/2" to 1" strips.
  • Drop into boiling pot.
  • Cook until pastries are done.
Nana's Chicken Pastry: A Southern Comfort Food Classic

Nana's Chicken Pastry: A Taste of Home

This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a cherished memory, a warm hug in a bowl. It's Nana's Chicken Pastry, and it holds a special place in my heart. It's one of the first recipes my mother-in-law taught me, a culinary rite of passage into her Southern kitchen. The aroma alone—rich, savory chicken broth mingling with the delicate fragrance of freshly made pastry—is enough to transport you to a sun-drenched porch swing, lemonade in hand, and family gathered 'round.

Learning this recipe wasn't just about mastering a technique; it was about understanding a legacy. Nana’s Chicken Pastry isn’t something you just *cook*; it's something you *create*, something you infuse with your own time and care. Each step whispers of generations past, each bite a testament to the enduring power of simple, wholesome food. The process itself is comforting. The rhythmic kneading of the dough, the gentle simmer of the chicken, the satisfying plop of the pastry strips into the bubbling broth—it's a meditative experience that calms the soul.

This recipe is more than chicken and dumplings; it's a symbol of family, tradition, and love. It’s a dish that seamlessly blends simplicity with extraordinary flavor. The tender chicken, perfectly seasoned and simmered to perfection, is enveloped in soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings. The result is a hearty, soulful dish that’s as comforting as a warm embrace. Every spoonful is a journey back in time, to simpler days and simpler pleasures. It's the type of meal that creates memories, the kind of food that fosters connection.

But beyond the sentimental value, Nana's Chicken Pastry is simply delicious. It's a meal that satisfies both body and soul, a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or even a special occasion. The recipe itself is adaptable; feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique twist. You could add a bay leaf for a subtle herbal note, or a pinch of thyme for a touch of earthy complexity. The possibilities are endless.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some calming music, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will not only nourish your body but also warm your heart. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of life – the joy of sharing a meal, the warmth of family, and the enduring magic of home-cooked food. This is more than just a recipe; it's a legacy, a tradition, a love letter to the simple things in life.

This dish is more than just a meal; it's a conversation starter, a memory maker, and a taste of home, no matter where you are in the world. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, that sparks laughter and conversation, and that leaves you feeling warm, satisfied, and utterly content. So go ahead, give Nana's Chicken Pastry a try. You won't regret it.

Beyond the Recipe: The beauty of this dish lies not only in its deliciousness but also in the simplicity of its ingredients and the ease of its preparation. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the simplest ones. It’s a dish that speaks to the heart, a culinary embrace that's both comforting and unforgettable. It’s a reminder that the most precious things in life often require the least amount of fuss.

A Culinary Legacy: Nana’s Chicken Pastry is a dish that transcends generations. It's a culinary heirloom, passed down from mother to daughter-in-law, a testament to the enduring power of family recipes and the traditions they represent. Each time I make this dish, I feel a connection to my mother-in-law, a sense of continuity and belonging. It's a culinary bridge that spans time, bringing together generations through a shared love of food and family.