There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. It takes me back to my childhood, where the aroma of simmering broth filled the house, promising a hearty meal. This dish is more than just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy dumplings, this recipe is a quick solution that brings everyone together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a classic favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s easy to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this dish is sure to please and warm your heart.
Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing, adding a rich flavor to the veggies.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the broth.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
Carrots: Sliced carrots provide a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Celery: This crunchy veggie adds freshness and a subtle earthiness.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that complements the chicken beautifully.
Dried rosemary: This aromatic herb adds a fragrant touch to the dish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors.
Chicken broth: The heart of the dish, creating a savory base for everything.
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken is the star protein, making it hearty and filling.
Frozen peas: These add a burst of color and sweetness, plus they’re super convenient.
Milk: Used in both the broth and dumplings, it adds creaminess.
All-purpose flour: The main ingredient for the dumplings, giving them structure.
Baking powder: This helps the dumplings rise, making them fluffy.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness to the dumpling mixture.
Additional milk (for dumplings): This ensures the dumplings are moist and tender.
Feel free to customize your Chicken and Dumplings! You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of flavor. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: making Chicken and Dumplings. This process is straightforward and rewarding, perfect for a cozy night in. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion. Cook it until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but not mushy. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Broth
Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. These herbs are the secret to a flavorful broth. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Let it simmer for a few minutes while you prepare for the next step.
Step 3: Mix in Chicken and Peas
Now, it’s time to add the shredded chicken and frozen peas to the pot. Stir them in gently, allowing the chicken to soak up all that savory goodness. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that everything is heated through and the flavors are well combined. You’ll start to see the broth thicken slightly, which is a good sign!
Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Mix them well. Then, add the melted butter and ½ cup of milk. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix! The dough should be thick but still a bit sticky. This is what will create those fluffy dumplings we all love.
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the simmering chicken mixture. Make sure to space them out a bit; they’ll expand as they cook. Once all the dumplings are in, cover the pot with a lid. This is crucial—don’t lift the lid for about 15 minutes! The steam will help the dumplings rise and become fluffy.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
After 15 minutes, it’s time for the moment of truth. Carefully lift the lid and check the dumplings. They should be fluffy and cooked through. If they look a bit doughy, cover and let them steam for a few more minutes. Once they’re perfect, serve your Chicken and Dumplings hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Tips for Success
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker, flavor-packed option.
Don’t skip the herbs; they elevate the dish significantly.
Keep the lid on while cooking dumplings for the best texture.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; everyone loves a personal touch!
For extra fluffiness, let the dumpling mixture rest for a few minutes before cooking.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: A Dutch oven works great, but any heavy-bottomed pot will do.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring; a spatula can work in a pinch.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your dumpling ingredients.
Lid: A tight-fitting lid is crucial for cooking the dumplings evenly.
Variations
Herb-Infused Dumplings: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the dumpling mixture for an aromatic twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the broth for a bit of heat.
Cheesy Dumplings: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the dumpling batter for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken and Dumplings with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
A side of buttery cornbread complements the dish perfectly.
Serve with a glass of chilled iced tea or a light white wine.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, frozen chicken works just fine. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding it for the dish.
What can I substitute for chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is a great alternative. It will still provide a rich flavor to your Chicken and Dumplings.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and broth mixture ahead of time. Just add the dumplings right before serving to keep them fluffy and fresh.
What’s the best way to reheat Chicken and Dumplings? The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a little broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Chicken and Dumplings is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing warmth with those you love. The process is simple, yet the results are nothing short of magical. Each spoonful brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to impress guests, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the comforting aroma fill your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
A comforting recipe for Chicken and Dumplings that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup milk (for dumplings)
Instructions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Add the melted butter and 1/2 cup of milk, stirring until just combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
After 15 minutes, check the dumplings for doneness; they should be fluffy and cooked through. Serve hot.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
You can customize the dumplings by adding herbs like parsley or chives for extra freshness.
