Chicken and Dumplings

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that warms the heart, then this Chicken and Dumplings recipe is just what you need! There’s something so special about the aroma of a rich, creamy broth bubbling away on the stove. It reminds me of cozy nights spent with family, gathered around the table to enjoy a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this homemade Chicken and Dumplings will surely become one of your favorites.

This recipe is not only a delight to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat. The fluffy dumplings are made from scratch in just minutes, adding an extra layer of love to this classic dish. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on this delightful comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish even on the busiest evenings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves Chicken and Dumplings! It’s a great way to bring the family together for dinner.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in creamy broth creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Chicken and Dumplings recipe. You likely have many of these on hand already!

For the Soup

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or half and half)
• 1 (32 oz) quart chicken stock (+1 extra cup of broth if using raw chicken)
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (or 1.5 lbs raw, skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste)
• salt (to taste)

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 3/4 cup (6 oz) whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)

Variations

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some peas or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version.
• Herb mix-up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onions, matchstick carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step is essential as sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine everything. Let it cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add in your evaporated milk and chicken stock as you continue stirring. This roux will thicken your soup beautifully, making it creamy and luscious—just how we love our Chicken and Dumplings!

Step 3: Add Your Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken, add an extra cup of chicken broth or water along with it into the pot. Let it all simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, simply add it along with thyme, black pepper, and salt right after bringing your mixture to a boil. Let it simmer uncovered while you prepare those delightful dumplings.

Step 4: Make Those Fluffy Dumplings

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, baking powder, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Pour in whole milk and melted butter; stir just until combined. This batter should be thick yet soft—perfect for fluffy dumplings that will rise beautifully in your soup.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Once your soup is simmering nicely without any lid on top, drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter directly into the bubbling broth. Cover with a lid immediately! Allow them to steam for about 15-20 minutes until they’re light and fluffy—this is where magic happens!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of homemade Chicken and Dumplings ready to serve! Enjoy every delicious bite with loved ones around you; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Dumplings

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken enhance the flavor of the broth significantly, making your dish taste homemade and comforting.
• Don’t skip the roux: Properly cooking the flour with butter creates a roux that thickens your soup beautifully. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture.
• Avoid overmixing dumpling batter: When combining the dumpling ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in dense dumplings instead of fluffy ones.
• Simmer gently: Allow your soup to simmer without boiling vigorously. A gentle simmer helps keep the chicken tender and ensures the dumplings cook evenly without falling apart.
• Adjust seasoning last: Taste your soup before adding more salt or pepper at the end of cooking. The flavors deepen as they meld together, so you might find you need less than you initially thought!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Presenting Chicken and Dumplings is all about showcasing its comforting nature while adding a touch of personal flair. Here are some ideas to make it visually appealing and enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle adds color and freshness, brightening up the dish beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A few extra cracks over the top not only enhance flavor but also provide a bit of visual appeal.
• Lemon wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a hint of acidity to balance the rich broth.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Their crisp texture complements the soft dumplings well, providing a nutritious crunch.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover broth, garlic bread adds a savory touch that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Simple garden salad: A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers brings freshness to the meal, balancing out the richness of Chicken and Dumplings.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These offer a slightly nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup, enriching your dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade Chicken and Dumplings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring a cozy and comforting dinner is just a reheat away.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to separate the dumplings from the broth if you want to keep them from getting too soggy.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the soup base without the dumplings.
• Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and seal tightly.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If frozen, allow it to thaw completely before reheating.
• Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened up too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Chicken and Dumplings recipe:

Can I use raw chicken in my Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes! This recipe allows you to use raw chicken. Simply add an extra cup of chicken broth when simmering until fully cooked, then shred it back into the soup.

How do I ensure my dumplings turn out fluffy in Chicken and Dumplings?

To achieve fluffy dumplings, avoid over-mixing the dough. Just combine the ingredients until moistened for the best texture!

Can I make Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

This hearty dish stands well on its own, but you might enjoy pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings family together. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!