Chicken and dumplings is like a warm hug from your grandma on a cold winter day. Picture this: fluffy, tender dumplings floating in a rich, creamy broth filled with juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables. This comfort food classic not only warms the soul but also tantalizes your taste buds with its savory flavors and delightful textures.
Growing up, my family made this dish whenever someone was feeling under the weather or just needed a little extra love. The aroma wafting through the house promised that something delicious was on the way, making even the grumpiest of kids perk up. It’s the perfect meal for cozy gatherings or rainy afternoons when you just want to snuggle up with a bowl of goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
- The flavor profile combines savory chicken with creamy broth and light dumplings, creating a comforting experience
- Visually, it’s a masterpiece with colorful veggies peeking through clouds of fluffy dumplings
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—dinner parties, family gatherings, or simply quiet nights at home
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on your crowd size.
Carrots: Fresh carrots give sweetness and color; slice them thinly for even cooking.
Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and flavor; use fresh stalks for the best taste.
Onion: A medium onion enhances the broth’s flavor; choose a sweet variety if you prefer milder tastes.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade or store-bought works fine.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup; feel free to substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
Dumpling Mix: You can use pre-made mix or concoct your own from flour, baking powder, milk, and butter.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil, and toss in those chicken pieces. Cook until they’re browned on all sides—about five minutes should do it.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot with your chicken. Stir them around until they’re tender—about another five minutes—and enjoy that lovely scent filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Create the Broth
Pour in about six cups of chicken broth along with heavy cream. Season generously with salt and pepper (don’t be shy). Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Make the Dumpling Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix together your dumpling ingredients (flour, baking powder, milk, melted butter) until just combined; lumps are okay! Don’t overmix unless you want chewy dumplings instead of fluffy ones.
Step 5: Drop in Dumplings
Once your broth is boiling softly, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture right onto the surface of the liquid—this is where magic happens! Cover tightly with a lid for about ten minutes without lifting it off!
Step 6: Serve Up Your Creation
Once those dumplings have cooked through (they’ll be puffed up), scoop out generous portions into bowls. Drizzle some additional cream over each serving if you’re feeling indulgent.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every last bite of this homemade chicken and dumplings recipe that wraps around you like your favorite blanket!
And there you have it—a comforting bowl filled to the brim with nostalgia! Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo while binge-watching your favorite show, this homemade chicken and dumplings recipe promises warmth in every spoonful.
You Must Know
- This delightful homemade chicken and dumplings recipe will not only warm your soul but also become a family favorite
- With its rich flavors and cozy vibes, it’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a comforting hug in food form
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in those savory juices. While that sizzles away, whip up your dumpling dough. Once the chicken is golden brown, add your broth and let it simmer while you prepare the dumplings for a perfectly hearty dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s lurking in your fridge. Toss in some frozen peas for sweetness, or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra pop of flavor. You can even spice things up with a dash of hot sauce.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep everything moist and delicious. Microwave or heat on the stove until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest after cooking; this locks in moisture and flavor
- Avoid overworking your dumpling dough to ensure they turn out light and fluffy
- If your soup is too thick, just add more broth until desired consistency is reached
Sometimes I whip up this homemade chicken and dumplings recipe when my friends visit, and their faces light up like they’ve just won the lottery! It’s pure joy shared around the table.
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for a Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe?
To make a delicious Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe, you will need several key ingredients. Start with boneless chicken breasts or thighs, along with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to create depth of flavor. You’ll also need chicken broth for the base, flour for dumplings, baking powder, milk, and butter. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley will enhance the taste. This combination ensures a hearty meal that warms the soul.
How long does it take to prepare Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?
Preparing a Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe typically takes around 30 minutes for prep and about 30-40 minutes for cooking. Overall, you can expect the entire process to take about 1 to 1.5 hours. This includes simmering the chicken to create a flavorful broth and allowing the dumplings to cook until fluffy. It’s a relatively quick dish that satisfies hunger and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Can I freeze leftover Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers from your Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe! To do this effectively, let the dish cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to store the chicken separately from the dumplings if possible, as dumplings may become soggy when thawed. When ready to eat again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
What can I serve with Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings pair well with several side dishes. You might consider serving a fresh salad with mixed greens for added crunch. Alternatively, crusty bread or cornbread complements this dish perfectly by soaking up the savory broth. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables can add color and nutrition to your meal. These sides enhance your dining experience while maintaining focus on the comforting main dish.
Conclusion for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe :
In summary, this Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe brings warmth and comfort to any table. With simple ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and easy-to-make dumplings, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The cooking process is straightforward yet rewarding, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at family gatherings, this recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished favorite in your home.
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, delivering warmth and nostalgia in every bite. This hearty dish features tender chicken simmered in a creamy broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this recipe is simple enough for novice cooks while impressive enough to delight seasoned chefs. Dive into a bowl of this homemade goodness that wraps around you like a warm blanket.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chicken until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Add carrots, celery, and onion; stir until tender (another 5 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, milk, and melted butter until just mixed (lumps are okay).
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture onto the boiling broth; cover tightly for about 10 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
