Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth. This hearty, home-cooked classic is perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or when you need a warm hug in a bowl. Simple to make and endlessly satisfying, this recipe will become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps to create this soul-soothing dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup whole milk or buttermilk
Preparation
Make the Chicken Stew
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the milk or heavy cream, shredded chicken, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently while preparing the dumplings.
Make the Dumpling Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter and milk until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
Add Dumplings to the Stew
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough (about 2 tablespoons each) directly onto the simmering stew.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook evenly.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaf and stir the stew gently to combine. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Variation Suggestions
- Vegetable-Packed: Add peas, green beans, or corn for extra vegetables.
- Herbed Dumplings: Mix fresh parsley or chives into the dumpling dough for added flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle heat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the stew and dumplings.
Cooking Note
For extra tender dumplings, ensure the pot stays covered while cooking. The trapped steam is crucial for creating light and fluffy dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.
- Top with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breast or thighs.
- For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the broth before adding dumplings.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the dumplings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken stew in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add the dumplings fresh before serving.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
You can freeze the chicken stew, but it’s best to prepare the dumplings fresh. Dumplings can become soggy when frozen.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Any cooked chicken will work, but chicken thighs are particularly flavorful and tender.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings is a dish that brings people together with its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy bowl of homemade goodness, this recipe delivers. Customize it to suit your preferences, and enjoy a meal that feels like home in every bite.