Chicken And Dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked meals. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth, topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. With its warm, inviting aroma and satisfying texture, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly evenings when you need a little extra comfort on your plate.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this chicken and dumplings recipe for its rich flavor profile, ease of preparation, and the nostalgic feel it brings. The combination of succulent chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a creamy broth creates a delightful harmony of tastes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Additionally, this recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a comforting weeknight meal. Plus, it fits well into various diets, being both filling and satisfying without requiring complex ingredients.
Tips and Tricks
- For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken in your pot before adding the broth and vegetables. This will add depth to the dish.
- Use a mix of chicken thighs and breasts for a balance of tenderness and flavor. Thighs tend to stay juicier during cooking.
- If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken to speed up the process; just shred the meat and add it to the broth.
- Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can elevate the flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the dumplings. They should be light and fluffy, not dense or gummy. Follow the cooking time closely.
- Don’t skip the seasoning in the broth. A well-seasoned base is crucial to making the entire dish flavorful.
- Be cautious with the amount of liquid. If the broth seems too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce; if it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the chicken and broth a day in advance. Store the cooked chicken and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and add the dumplings. Alternatively, you can make the dumpling batter in advance and refrigerate it, though it’s best used fresh for optimal fluffiness.
Recipe Variations
- For a healthier twist, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices; rosemary, sage, or even a hint of cayenne can add unique flavor dimensions.
- For those avoiding gluten, you can make dumplings with gluten-free flour or use a store-bought gluten-free biscuit mix.
- Try adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the mix for added color and nutrition.
How to Serve
Serve your chicken and dumplings hot, directly from the pot, into deep bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can also enhance the presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully, while a warm cup of herbal tea can provide a soothing contrast. If you’re looking for dessert, consider serving a slice of apple pie or a warm bread pudding to round off the meal with a sweet touch.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and dumplings in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth if necessary to restore creaminess.
Equipment Needed
- A large pot or Dutch oven is essential for simmering the chicken and broth.
- A wooden spoon for stirring.
- A mixing bowl for preparing the dumpling batter.
- A ladle for serving.
If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a heavy-bottomed pot will work just as well.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Ensure that your dumpling mix uses plant-based milk and a vegan butter substitute.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, add roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a seasonal twist. During summer, incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill and vibrant vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. In winter, consider adding root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for a heartier dish.
Cost Breakdown
This chicken and dumplings recipe is budget-friendly, costing approximately $2.50 per serving depending on ingredient availability. To save even more, buy chicken in bulk or opt for less expensive cuts. Using frozen vegetables can also reduce costs without sacrificing flavor.
Kitchen Hacks
- To easily peel garlic, crush the cloves under the flat side of a knife; the skins will come off with minimal effort.
- To avoid tears while chopping onions, chill them in the refrigerator before cutting.
- If you have leftover dumpling dough, you can cook it in boiling water for a quick snack or side dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully cooked before serving. Increase the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
How do I know when the dumplings are done? They should be puffy and cooked through; you can cut one in half to check for doneness.
How To Make chicken and dumplings recipe
Chicken And Dumplings
Chicken And Dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken (thighs and/or breasts)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Once the dumplings are cooked, ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 736Total Fat 43gSaturated Fat 20gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 214mgSodium 1273mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 2gSugar 6gProtein 45g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making chicken and dumplings is not just about preparing food; it’s about creating a comforting experience that brings people together. With its rich flavors and cozy textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy experimenting with this recipe and making it your own! Happy cooking!