Local ARTbeat

Find art. Capture places. Discover Eastern NC.

Chicken and Pastry

Country Ham Biscuits

Chicken and pastry is comfort food built for church suppers, family tables, and cold-weather fundraisers. The pastry is flat, tender, and cooked directly in rich chicken broth.

Country Ham Biscuits

Chicken and Pastry

Chicken and pastry is comfort food built for church suppers, family tables, and cold-weather fundraisers. The pastry is flat, tender, and cooked directly in rich chicken broth.
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 whole chicken or 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
  • 10 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons shortening or butter
  • 1/2 cup cold water, plus more as needed
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Place chicken in a large pot with water, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Simmer until chicken is tender, about 1 hour.
  2. Remove chicken. Strain broth if desired and return 8 cups broth to the pot. Shred chicken and set aside.
  3. Mix flour and remaining salt. Cut in shortening or butter. Add cold water until a firm dough forms.
  4. Roll dough very thin on a floured surface and cut into strips or squares.
  5. Bring broth to a gentle boil. Drop pastry pieces in one at a time, stirring gently. Cook 12 to 15 minutes.
  6. Add shredded chicken and butter. Simmer 5 more minutes and adjust seasoning.

Notes

  • Do not over-stir after adding pastry; gentle movement keeps pieces intact.
  • Some families like it brothy, others thicker. Simmer longer for a thicker pot.

Related Recipes

Food Notes and Sources