Classic Chicken & Dumplings Comforting Home Recipe

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Are you craving a warm and satisfying meal? Look no further than my Classic Chicken & Dumplings Comforting Home Recipe! This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth, offering a taste of home. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfect every time. Get ready to impress your family and embrace the comfort of this timeless classic!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic: This recipe embodies the comfort of home-cooked meals, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
3. Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or leftover meats for a unique twist each time.
4. One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is a major plus, as everything cooks in one pot, allowing for a relaxed cooking experience.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 3 medium carrots, sliced

– 3 celery stalks, sliced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 6 cups chicken broth

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup frozen peas

– Salt and pepper to taste

Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor and texture of the dish. The olive oil helps sauté the veggies, while onion and garlic add a savory base. Carrots and celery bring sweetness and crunch. The chicken broth is the heart of the soup, giving it depth. Shredded chicken adds protein, and peas provide a pop of color. Seasoning with salt and pepper rounds out all the flavors.

Dumpling Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 cup milk

For the dumplings, flour gives structure, and baking powder helps them rise. Salt enhances the taste, while butter adds richness. Milk binds everything together, creating a soft, fluffy texture.

Measurements and Substitutions

– Adjusting servings: You can easily double or halve the recipe. Just keep the same ratios.

– Ingredient alternatives: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Swap in any cooked protein you like. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re out of milk, try unsweetened almond milk or water.

These tips let you customize the dish to your taste and pantry needs. Enjoy making this warm, comforting meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Soup Base

To start, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes. The onion should turn translucent. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute. This step adds a wonderful aroma to your dish.

Now, incorporate 3 sliced carrots and 3 sliced celery stalks into the pot. Continue to sauté for 5 to 7 minutes. This softens the vegetables. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. These herbs boost the flavor.

Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and raise the heat to bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 cup of frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let this simmer while you prepare the dumpling batter.

Making the Dumpling Batter

In a separate medium bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until they are well combined. Then, pour in 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of milk. Stir gently until the mixture comes together. Don’t overmix; it’s fine if there are a few lumps.

Cooking the Dish

Now it’s time to cook the dumplings. Use a spoon to drop generous spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Aim for about 10 to 12 dumplings. Once they are in the pot, cover it with a lid.

Cook the dumplings undisturbed for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size. They should puff up and be fully cooked through. After cooking, gently stir the chicken and broth mixture to combine everything. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor

Seasoning is key to great chicken and dumplings. Start with salt and pepper. Taste as you cook. This helps you find the right balance. Use fresh herbs when possible. Thyme and rosemary add depth. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. For broth, homemade is the best. If you need to use store-bought, choose low-sodium for better control. Simmering for longer will deepen the flavor.

Dumpling Texture Tips

To make fluffy dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined. It’s okay if there are lumps. Overmixing makes them dense. Let the batter rest for a few minutes. This allows the baking powder to activate. Cook the dumplings for 15 to 20 minutes. They should puff up and feel light. Keep the lid on while cooking. This traps steam and helps them cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, use deep bowls. Ladle in the chicken and broth first. Then, add the dumplings on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. This adds a pop of green. Serve with crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up that rich broth. Consider a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. Enjoy your comforting dish!

Variations

Classic vs. Modern Takes

You can switch up chicken and dumplings in many ways. For a classic dish, use tender chicken, like rotisserie. You can try different proteins too. Think turkey or even shrimp for a twist.

What if you want some heat? Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to spice it up. A dash of hot sauce can also do the trick. This gives your dish a new layer of flavor.

Healthier Alternatives

Want a lighter meal? You can substitute some ingredients. Use skinless chicken breast instead of dark meat. Swap heavy cream with low-fat milk for a creamy touch.

If you need gluten-free options, try almond or coconut flour for the dumplings. Mix in a gluten-free baking powder. For dairy-free, use almond milk or oat milk to keep it tasty.

International Inspirations

Chicken and dumplings appear in many cultures. Try the Chinese version. Use dumplings filled with ground chicken and veggies. Cook them in broth for a warming soup.

You can also look to Italy. Their gnocchi is a great choice. Make a rich sauce with tomatoes and spices to mix with chicken. Each variation brings new tastes to your table.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your chicken and dumplings, wait until it cools. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge. It will last up to four days. You can enjoy it again without losing much flavor.

Freezing Chicken & Dumplings

Freezing is a great option for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat slowly on the stove to keep the dumplings soft.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use gentle heat. You can warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to help it heat evenly. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water. You can also microwave it in short bursts. Stir in between to keep the flavor intact. Enjoy your comforting meal just like the first time!

FAQs

How do I make chicken and dumplings from scratch?

To make chicken and dumplings, you start by cooking the base. First, heat olive oil in a large pot. Add diced onion and sauté for about five minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Next, toss in sliced carrots and celery, cooking until they soften. Stir in dried thyme and rosemary, then pour in chicken broth. Let it boil, then reduce the heat and add shredded chicken and frozen peas. While it simmers, mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Add melted butter and milk, stirring until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the pot, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until puffed and cooked through.

Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using cooked chicken saves time. Pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, works well. It adds flavor and cuts down on prep time. This method makes the dish easier and quicker to prepare, especially for busy days. You can skip the step of cooking raw chicken, making the process more straightforward.

What can I add to chicken and dumplings for more flavor?

You can enhance your chicken and dumplings with various herbs and spices. Consider adding fresh parsley or chives for brightness. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add subtle heat. You can also try adding bay leaves while simmering for depth. Fresh thyme or basil can bring a lovely aroma to the dish. Experimenting with these flavors can turn a classic meal into a delightful experience.

In this article, we explored how to make comforting chicken and dumplings. We reviewed essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for a tasty dish. You learned how to customize flavors and make healthier versions. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat without losing taste. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so gather your ingredients and try it out. Enjoy the process and delight in your delicious creatio

Comforting Chicken & Dumplings

A warm and hearty dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas
• to taste salt and pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk

Instructions

 

• Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
• Incorporate the sliced carrots and celery into the pot. Continue to sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
• Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary to infuse the vegetables with flavor, then pour in the chicken broth. Raise the heat until the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
• Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken and frozen peas, seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. Allow the mixture to simmer while you prepare the dumpling batter.
• In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Pour in the melted butter and milk, stirring gently until the mixture comes together. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
• Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken-broth mixture. You should aim for about 10-12 dumplings. Once added, cover the pot with a lid.
• Allow the dumplings to cook undisturbed for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size, until they are puffed up and fully cooked through.
• After the dumplings are finished cooking, gently stir the chicken and broth mixture to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Notes

Serve in deep bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair with crusty bread.

Keyword chicken, comfort food, dumplings

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