Chicken and Dumplings

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. With its rich and creamy broth paired with fluffy dumplings made from scratch, this dish warms both the heart and the stomach. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and delightful dumplings makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The creamy broth combined with tender chicken creates a warm and inviting flavor profile.
• Homemade Dumplings: Fluffy dumplings made from scratch add a special touch that elevates this dish.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Option: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish suits various palates.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies, chicken, and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to prepare Chicken and Dumplings.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing burning while creating a creamy broth.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables easier and safer, ensuring uniform pieces for cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient ratios for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings has a rich and creamy broth with big fluffy dumplings that are made from scratch in just minutes!

For the Soup Base

• 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)

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

In a large heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Add flour to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add the evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously to create a creamy roux. It’s very important to keep stirring to prevent burning or lumps!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

If using raw chicken: Add an extra cup of chicken broth (or water) along with the raw chicken. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the soup. Lower the heat and let simmer uncovered while you make the dumplings.

If using pre-cooked chicken: Bring your mixture to a boil before adding in the shredded chicken along with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Lower heat again as you prepare to make your dumplings.

Step 4: Make Dumpling Dough

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, whole milk, and melted butter until just mixed together.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto simmering soup. Cover pot tightly so steam builds up inside—this helps cook dumplings through evenly without boiling them too hard. Cook for about 15 minutes until fluffy!

Now you have delicious homemade Chicken and Dumplings, perfect for any meal occasion!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Dumplings can elevate your dining experience, making it a comforting and hearty meal for any occasion. Here are some enjoyable serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few thyme sprigs to garnish, which complements the flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread Rolls: Serve warm bread rolls on the side for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans add a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the dumplings.

As a Casserole

• Chicken and Dumpling Casserole: Transform leftovers into a baked casserole topped with cheese for an easy next-day meal.

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How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

To achieve the best Chicken and Dumplings, consider these helpful tips that can make your dish even more delicious.

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth to ensure rich flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Roux: Take your time when making the roux; this step is crucial for thickening and adding creaminess to the soup.
• Fluffy Dumplings: Avoid overmixing your dumpling dough to keep them light and fluffy when cooked.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste before adding salt or pepper; this helps you avoid over-seasoning.
• Simmer Gently: Maintain a gentle simmer while cooking; too much heat can toughen the chicken or dry out the dumplings.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

Pairing side dishes with Chicken and Dumplings can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Sautéed Spinach: Quick and nutritious, sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can complement the dish’s texture and absorb delicious broth.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that brightens up the meal.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory flavors, perfect for soaking up any leftover broth.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice adds a healthy twist while being easy to prepare.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish after such a hearty main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chicken and Dumplings even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the roux: Not making a roux can result in a thin broth. Always cook the flour with butter before adding liquids to thicken your soup effectively.
• Overcooking the dumplings: Cooking dumplings for too long may turn them tough. Keep an eye on them; they only need about 15 minutes to steam properly.
• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth will lead to a dull flavor. Opt for a high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for richness and depth.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can make your dish lifeless. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect cooking times. Make sure your milk and chicken are at room temperature before adding them.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chicken and Dumplings can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just be aware that the texture of dumplings may change upon reheating.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken and Dumplings:

What is Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish made with tender chicken, vegetables, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings all cooked together.

How do I make my dumplings light and fluffy?

For light dumplings, don’t overmix the batter. Gently combine ingredients just until moistened.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can add frozen chicken directly into the pot; just increase cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have thyme?

You can substitute thyme with sage or omit it entirely if you prefer no herbs.

Can Chicken and Dumplings be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead but reheat gently to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. Try this comforting dish today!