Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? Imagine a steaming bowl of chicken and dumplings, where tender chicken swims in a rich broth while fluffy dumplings float gently on top. This dish not only fills your stomach but also touches your heart. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual family gathering, chicken and dumplings promise to be the star of the show.

Growing up, my grandmother would prepare this delightful meal every Sunday. The aroma of simmering herbs and spices would fill our home, drawing us into the kitchen like moths to a flame. Each bite was a burst of nostalgia; the soft dumplings paired perfectly with the savory chicken created memories that linger long after dinner is over. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Chicken and dumplings provide that warm, soothing feeling we all crave during colder months or after long days.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be prepared quickly without sacrificing taste.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this recipe serves multiple people generously.

Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: Use about 4-5 thighs for tenderness; they provide great flavor compared to breasts.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness in your dish.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for making the dumpling dough; sift it before measuring for best results.

For the Dumplings:

• Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh to help your dumplings rise properly while cooking.
• Milk: Use whole milk for richer-tasting dumplings; it adds moisture to the dough.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, place the boneless chicken thighs into the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Broth

Pour in approximately six cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool slightly before shredding it using two forks. Return shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 4: Prepare Dumpling Dough

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and pepper until combined. The dough should be thick but spreadable.

Step 5: Form Dumplings

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering broth. Cover tightly with a lid and cook for an additional 15 minutes without lifting the lid to allow them to steam properly.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, ladle soup into bowls with plenty of dumplings on top. Enjoy warm for maximum comfort!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh thyme or parsley enhances flavor significantly—don’t skimp on these!
• Don’t Overmix Dumpling Dough: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough dumplings.
• Adjust Thickness with Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer thicker broth, mix equal parts cornstarch with water before adding it slowly into simmering broth.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Broth Preparation: One of the most common mistakes when making chicken and dumplings is using store-bought broth without enhancing it. Homemade broth adds depth and richness to the dish. If you’re short on time, at least simmer some herbs and spices in your store-bought broth to elevate the flavor. This small step can significantly improve your overall dish.
• Overworking the Dumpling Dough: When preparing dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough. Overworking it leads to tough dumplings, which can ruin your chicken and dumplings experience. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed; this ensures a light and fluffy texture. Remember, less is more when it comes to mixing!
• Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can leave your chicken and dumplings bland. Always taste as you go, adding salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten the flavors. A well-seasoned dish will enhance all components of your meal.
• Cooking Dumplings Too Long: Cooking dumplings for too long can lead to a soggy texture that detracts from the dish’s appeal. Follow cooking times closely and check for doneness regularly. A perfectly cooked dumpling should be fluffy yet firm. Aim for a cooking time of around 15-20 minutes, depending on your recipe.

Ingredients

To prepare a delicious Chicken and Dumplings, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 3 carrots, sliced

– 3 celery stalks, chopped

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon pepper

– 1 cup milk

– 1/4 cup butter, melted

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chicken and Dumplings:

Begin by placing the whole chicken in a large pot. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour or until the chicken is cooked through.

Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Next, prepare the dumpling dough. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid. The dumplings should be fluffy and fully cooked.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Dumplings is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Side Salad: A fresh green salad complements this hearty dish well.
• Bread Rolls: Warm bread rolls are perfect for soaking up extra broth.
• Steamed Vegetables: Brightly colored vegetables add nutrition and color to your meal.

FAQs

What are some variations of Chicken and Dumplings?

You can customize your Chicken and Dumplings by adding different vegetables such as peas or corn. Some people enjoy adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. For a creamier version, consider incorporating heavy cream into the broth as it simmers. Gluten-free options are available too; just substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for dumplings.

Can I make Chicken and Dumplings in advance?

Yes! You can prepare Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken mixture separately from the dumpling dough in airtight containers in your refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the chicken mixture on low heat before adding fresh dumplings to cook.

Is Chicken and Dumplings healthy?

Chicken and Dumplings can be part of a balanced diet when prepared thoughtfully. Using lean chicken breast instead of dark meat reduces fat content. Incorporating more vegetables increases nutritional value without compromising flavor. You can also control sodium levels by using low-sodium broth.

How do I store leftover Chicken and Dumplings?

Store leftover Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. If you have a large quantity that you won’t eat right away, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on low heat on your stovetop or microwave.

Conclusion for Chicken and Dumplings

In summary, Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients like chicken, vegetables, flour, and milk. By following these straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful meal that warms hearts during any season. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations or serving suggestions to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this classic dish with family or friends for a truly memorable dining experience!