The aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, savory broth, combined with fluffy dumplings that seem to float on their own fluffy clouds, is nothing short of culinary magic. Chicken and dumplings is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked meals at Grandma’s house. Each bite offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that make you feel like you’re wrapped in a soft blanket, even if you’re just in your pajamas on the couch.
As the steam wafts up and tickles your nose, you can almost hear the cheerful chatter of friends and family gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating their first spoonful. This dish has been a beloved staple for generations, perfect for cozy gatherings or whenever you need to chase away the blues. With just one taste, you’ll realize that chicken and dumplings isn’t merely food; it’s an experience that promises satisfaction and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation shines through as this hearty meal comes together quickly
- The flavor profile balances savory chicken with a hint of herbs, creating delightful comfort food
- Visually appealing with its inviting golden dumplings floating atop rich broth, it’s a feast for the eyes too!
- Not to mention its versatility; serve it as a main dish or pair it with fresh veggies for an ideal family dinner
Ingredients for chicken and dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for a hearty meal that pleases everyone.
- Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth adds depth; homemade is best but store-bought works wonders too.
- Carrots: Sliced into rounds; they bring sweetness and color to this comforting dish.
- Celery: Chopped finely; it adds crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- Onion: Diced onion provides a base flavor that makes everything taste better.
For the Dumplings:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for fluffy dumplings; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent gives your dumplings their delightful rise.
- Milk: Whole milk yields richer dumplings, but any milk will do in a pinch.
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 Chicken
Begin by chopping your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your chicken pieces until they’re browned all over—about five minutes should do the trick.
Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies
Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté them together with the chicken until they soften—roughly five more minutes will have them singing in harmony.
Step 3: Add Broth
Pour in about six cups of chicken broth along with salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture come to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. Then lower the heat and let it simmer for about twenty minutes—the smell will be irresistible!
Step 4: Whip Up Dumpling Batter
In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and whatever herbs speak to you today (thyme or parsley work wonders!). Stir until just combined—it should be thick but not too stiff.
Step 5: Drop In The Dumplings
Once your broth is bubbling happily away, drop spoonfuls of your batter into the pot. Cover it with a lid immediately—this is important! The steam helps cook those little dough clouds into fluffy perfection.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Let everything simmer together for another ten minutes without lifting that lid! When you finally remove it, you’ll be greeted by puffy dumplings nestled in rich broth—a most delightful sight indeed!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every spoonful as laughter fills your kitchen—because let’s be honest; who doesn’t love chicken and dumplings?
You Must Know
- This delightful chicken and dumplings recipe offers not just comfort, but also a chance to create a cozy meal that warms the soul
- With its creamy sauce and tender dumplings, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a rainy day
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To master chicken and dumplings, start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor. While that sizzles, whip up your dumpling dough. Once your chicken is golden brown, add it back to simmer with veggies and broth until everything is beautifully cooked.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your chicken and dumplings by swapping in different proteins like turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added depth, and don’t forget to toss in some veggies for color and crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your dough rest for about 10 minutes; this gives you fluffier dumplings
- Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing flavors to meld is key
- Finally, taste as you go—seasoning can make or break your dish
I remember one chilly evening when I served chicken and dumplings at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds! The laughter around the table paired with compliments made it a night to cherish forever.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for chicken and dumplings?
To prepare delicious chicken and dumplings, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts or thighs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, milk, butter, chicken broth, vegetables like carrots and celery, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme. These ingredients combine to create a hearty dish that’s comforting and satisfying. You can customize this recipe with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Fresh parsley can also be added for garnish.
How long does it take to cook chicken and dumplings?
Cooking chicken and dumplings typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes once you have prepared your ingredients. This includes simmering the chicken in broth for about 20 minutes until fully cooked and tender. Dumplings require an additional 10 to 15 minutes of steaming time for that perfect fluffy texture. Overall, set aside about one hour from start to finish for this comforting meal.
Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken and dumplings ahead of time! Prepare the chicken and broth mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture on the stovetop. Prepare the dumpling batter fresh just before cooking to ensure they remain fluffy. However, if you refrigerate the entire dish after cooking, the dumplings may lose their texture upon reheating.
What are some variations of chicken and dumplings?
There are many delightful variations of chicken and dumplings to explore! Some recipes use different types of meat, like turkey or beef. Others swap traditional dumplings for biscuit-style ones or even drop biscuits for a unique twist. Additionally, you can incorporate vegetables such as peas or green beans for added nutrition. Experimenting with different herbs like rosemary or sage can also enhance flavor profiles in your dish.
Conclusion for chicken and dumplings :
In summary, chicken and dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. The recipe is versatile; you can adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Preparing this meal takes around an hour, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad, this dish truly warms the heart and brings family together at the table. Enjoy your homemade delight!
Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this heartwarming chicken and dumplings recipe. Tender chicken pieces simmer in a savory broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also promises to create cherished memories around the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional herbs (thyme or parsley)
Instructions
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the chicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot; sauté for another 5 minutes until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and herbs to create the dumpling batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the bubbling broth. Cover immediately to steam the dumplings for about 10 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Serve hot with drizzled sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
