The aroma of chicken and dumplings fills the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a steaming bowl where tender chicken meets fluffy dumplings, all swimming in a luscious broth that whispers comfort with every spoonful. This is not just food; it’s an experience, one that will transport you back to your grandmother’s kitchen or that cozy family gathering where laughter mingled with the smell of something delicious bubbling away.
Remember those days when a bowl of chicken and dumplings meant love, laughter, and a little bit of chaos? Whether it was a rainy afternoon or a festive holiday dinner, this dish always held the promise of joy and satisfaction. So grab your apron and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will not only fill your belly but also warm your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic chicken and dumplings recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavor profile combines savory chicken with herbs for a taste explosion
- With its inviting presentation, this dish looks as good as it tastes!
- It’s versatile enough to accommodate any leftover veggies you have lying around
Ingredients for chicken and dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for their juicy flavor; they won’t dry out like breasts.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. Choose firm ones for the best texture.
Celery Stalks: Celery brings crunch and depth; make sure they’re crisp and vibrant.
Onion: A medium yellow onion works beautifully in the broth, enhancing the overall flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need this for thickening both the broth and the dumpling dough.
Baking Powder: Essential for light and fluffy dumplings; don’t skip this ingredient!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in your dish.
Herbs (Thyme & Parsley): Fresh or dried herbs elevate the flavors; use what you’ve got on hand.
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: Brown the Chicken
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, season your boneless chicken thighs with salt and pepper before tossing them into the pot. Sear until golden brown on both sides—about five minutes each side. You want that beautiful color!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the browned chicken from the pot and set aside. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and sliced celery to the same pot. Stir frequently for about five minutes until they soften up—this step creates a delicious base for your broth.
Step 3: Create the Broth
Pour in about six cups of chicken broth along with those magical herbs—thyme and parsley. Scrape up any flavorful bits left from browning the chicken as you stir. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before returning the chicken thighs back to the pot.
Step 4: Prepare Dumpling Dough
In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Then stir in some milk until you achieve a thick batter consistency. Don’t worry about making it perfect; lumpy is okay!
Step 5: Add Dumplings
Once your pot is bubbling away like it’s auditioning for a role in “The Great British Bake Off,” drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter over the simmering soup. Cover tightly with a lid and let them steam away for about fifteen minutes—patience is key here!
Step 6: Serve It Up
After fifteen minutes of heavenly aromas wafting through your kitchen, gently lift off the lid (watch out for steam!). Remove the chicken thighs so you can shred them apart easily before returning them to their soupy home along with those delectable dumplings. Transfer to bowls and enjoy every last bite!
So there you have it—a comforting bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings that’ll make even your grumpy uncle smile! Grab some crusty bread on the side if you feel fancy!
You Must Know
- This delicious chicken and dumplings recipe offers more than just comfort; it wraps you in a warm hug from the inside
- Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s a nostalgic dish that everyone will love
- Easy to customize, this recipe is a true family favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown for extra flavor. While that sizzles, mix your dumpling batter. Then, prepare your broth and let it simmer, adding the cooked chicken and dumplings for perfect harmony.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for breasts, or add veggies like carrots and peas for extra color and nutrition. Spice it up with herbs like thyme or rosemary to personalize your chicken and dumplings!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep everything moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve tender dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter; a few lumps are totally fine
- Use homemade stock if possible; it elevates the dish significantly
- Lastly, don’t skip the resting time; letting flavors meld is key to delicious chicken and dumplings
There’s nothing quite like the delightful chaos of cooking with my family, especially when we make chicken and dumplings together—laughter fills the kitchen as we try not to drop ingredients everywhere!
FAQs:
What are the key ingredients for chicken and dumplings?
To make delicious chicken and dumplings, you need several key ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender meat. For the broth, use chicken stock or homemade broth, which adds rich flavor. You’ll also need vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to enhance the taste. The dumpling mixture typically contains flour, baking powder, milk, and butter. This combination creates light and fluffy dumplings that cook perfectly in the broth.
How long does it take to cook chicken and dumplings?
Cooking chicken and dumplings usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. First, you’ll want to simmer your chicken in the broth for about 20 minutes until fully cooked. Once you add the dumpling mixture to the bubbling broth, let it cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. It’s crucial not to lift the lid during this time to ensure the steam stays inside, allowing the dumplings to rise beautifully.
Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken and dumplings ahead of time! To do this effectively, make the filling with chicken and vegetables but wait until you’re ready to serve before adding the dumplings. If you add them too early, they may become soggy when reheated. Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat it on low heat and then cook your fresh dumplings.
What variations can I try with chicken and dumplings?
There are numerous variations you can explore with chicken and dumplings! For a twist, consider using different proteins like turkey or even vegetarian options such as mushrooms or tofu. You might also experiment with herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. Another fun variation is to swap traditional dumplings for biscuit-style toppings or even gnocchi for a different texture. Each of these options brings a unique flair while maintaining the comforting essence of this classic dish.
Conclusion for chicken and dumplings:
In summary, chicken and dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich broth. By selecting quality ingredients like fresh vegetables and a flavorful stock, you can create a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at family gatherings, this recipe offers versatility through various adaptations. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors or proteins; each variation has its own charm while staying true to this beloved classic.
Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken and dumplings is a comforting dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken thighs with fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe fills your home with irresistible aromas while providing warmth and nostalgia. Customize it with your favorite herbs and leftover veggies for an added twist, making it a cherished staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes each). Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in thyme; bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pot.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in milk until thick batter forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover tightly and steam for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
