There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken and dumplings. The tender chicken, nestled in a savory broth, is like a warm hug for your soul. Add fluffy dumplings that practically float like clouds, and you’ve got a dish that sings with flavor and coziness.
Every time I whip up this delightful recipe, I’m whisked back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of simmering chicken filled the air. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings that could use a sprinkle of nostalgia. Ready for an amazing flavor experience? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken and dumplings recipe is not only easy to prepare but bursts with flavors that will make your taste buds dance
- You can adapt the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, making it a versatile choice for any meal
- Its creamy texture and inviting aromas will make it visually appealing and irresistibly comforting
- Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, it’s a dish you won’t forget!
Ingredients for chicken and dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts is ideal for this recipe; they provide tender meat that’s perfect when cooked in broth.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; feel free to chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Celery: This crunchy vegetable gives a satisfying texture and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté it until it’s translucent to release its natural sweetness.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in tons of flavor.
For the Dumplings:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating those fluffy dumplings; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking Powder: Leavening agent that helps the dumplings rise beautifully while cooking in the broth.
- Milk: Whole milk works best here to keep your dumplings moist and rich in flavor.
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 Your Ingredients
Start by chopping all your veggies: carrots, celery, and onion. This makes cooking smoother later on—no one likes hunting down ingredients when you’re ready to cook!
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil and toss in those chopped onions first. Sauté until they are translucent, then add carrots and celery. Cook until softened, about five minutes.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth
Now it’s time for the star of our show! Place your boneless chicken breasts into the pot with sautéed vegetables. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything comfortably (about four cups should do). Bring it all to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer.
Step 4: Make the Dumpling Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and milk. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix! The batter should be thick but spoonable.
Step 5: Drop Dumplings into Broth
After about twenty minutes of simmering (your kitchen will smell heavenly), take spoonfuls of your dumpling batter and drop them gently onto the simmering broth. Cover with a lid and allow them to steam for about fifteen minutes without lifting the lid!
Step 6: Serve Hot
Once your dumplings are fluffy and cooked through (trust me; they’ll puff up like little clouds), serve hot with generous helpings of that rich broth over everything. Transfer to plates and enjoy every comforting bite!
Now you’re armed with everything you need to create an extraordinary chicken and dumplings experience! Gather around the table with friends or family—you’ll be glad you did.
You Must Know
- This delightful chicken and dumplings recipe offers warmth and comfort in every bite
- It’s a dish that brings families together, making dinner time feel extra special
- Perfect for cozy nights, it can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While that’s happening, whip up your dumpling dough. Once the chicken is golden brown, add your broth and veggies, then drop those fluffy dumplings right on top for a steaming finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up by swapping out vegetables or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. Want a creamier texture? Stir in some heavy cream right before serving. The beauty of chicken and dumplings is that it loves a personal touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to revive that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough; you want them light and fluffy
- Always taste your broth before seasoning; sometimes it’s already packed with flavor!
- And remember to let your dish sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld all those delicious flavors together
It’s funny how my family always insists on having chicken and dumplings at every holiday gathering. Just last Thanksgiving, my cousin declared it was the only reason he showed up!
FAQs :
What are the best ingredients for chicken and dumplings?
To make the perfect chicken and dumplings, choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Start with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for richer broth. Use carrots, celery, and onions to enhance the soup base. For the dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley add aromatic notes. You can also use frozen or canned vegetables if you’re short on time. The key is balancing flavors while ensuring the dumplings remain fluffy and tender.
How do you store leftover chicken and dumplings?
Storing leftover chicken and dumplings is simple. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. If freezing, consider separating the dumplings from the broth to prevent them from becoming too soft when reheated. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stove or in a microwave until heated through. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal again!
Can I make chicken and dumplings in advance?
Yes! You can prepare chicken and dumplings in advance for convenience. Cook the chicken and create the broth a day prior; store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to add dumplings. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring it back to a simmer and drop in your prepared dumpling batter. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully overnight while saving you time on busy days.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
Chicken and dumplings is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with a light salad to balance out its richness; greens like arugula or spinach work well. You might also enjoy cornbread or crusty bread to soak up any leftover broth. Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition alongside this comforting meal.
Conclusion for chicken and dumplings :
In summary, chicken and dumplings is a timeless comfort food that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich broth. By using fresh ingredients and following simple steps, you can create a dish that warms both body and soul. Remembering how to store leftovers properly ensures you can savor this delicious meal again later. Whether served alone or alongside complementary sides, chicken and dumplings always brings joy to the table!
Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken simmered in a rich broth with fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. This heartwarming dish transports you back to family gatherings, filling your home with inviting aromas and bringing everyone together. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is adaptable and easy to prepare. Enjoy every comforting bite of this timeless classic!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 2 cups chopped celery
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Chop the carrots, celery, and onion.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent. Add carrots and celery; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the chicken breasts and enough chicken broth to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and milk to form a thick batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover and steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Serve hot with plenty of broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
