Chicken and Dumplings

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There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Chicken and Dumplings.

It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather.

This recipe combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and fluffy dumplings that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.

Whether you’re cooking for family or just want to treat yourself, this dish is not just delicious but also pretty straightforward to make.

Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

One of the best things about Chicken and Dumplings is its versatility.

You can whip this up with fresh chicken or use leftover rotisserie chicken, saving time without compromising on flavor.

The creamy chicken broth combined with the homemade dumplings is like a warm hug in a bowl.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that brings everyone to the table.

It’s not only comforting but also nutritious, making it great for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Chicken and Dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds (680 g) chicken breasts or thighs – boneless and skinless, or 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
• 1 medium (100 g) yellow onion finely diced
• 1 medium (100 g) carrot peeled and diced
• 1 rib (100 g) celery diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken stock
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

How To Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, if you’re using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Once melted, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery.

Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onion is translucent.

Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting that delightful aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir to combine.

This will help thicken the sauce later on.

Cook it for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously.

Then, slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring to avoid any lumps.

This is where the magic begins!

Step 4: Add Chicken and Season

Add your chicken (either raw pieces or shredded) to the pot, along with the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.

Give it a good stir, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and then cover the pot.

Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Make the Dumplings

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings.

In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, a pinch of salt, and ½ cup of milk.

Stir until just combined.

The mixture should be thick and drop from the spoon.

Step 6: Add Peas and Dumplings

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the frozen peas.

Now, using a spoon, drop the dumpling mixture by the tablespoon onto the simmering chicken mixture.

You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your pot.

Cover the pot and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes.

Do not lift the lid during this time as it can affect the cooking of the dumplings.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the bay leaves.

If you wish, you can garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious bowl of Chicken and Dumplings with family or friends!

Expert Tips

• For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock if you have it on hand.
• If you want lighter dumplings, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make sure the dumpling batter isn’t overmixed; this keeps them fluffy!

Variations and Customizations

• Add your favorite vegetables like corn, green beans, or bell peppers.
• For a spicier version, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• For a twist, you can add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Try using different proteins like shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply transfer to a saucepan over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.

If the dumplings have absorbed a lot of sauce, you may want to add a splash of chicken stock or water to get the desired consistency again.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then cook it in the morning for an easy meal.

What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you could serve a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, Chicken and Dumplings can be frozen.

However, the dumplings may change texture when reheated, so consider freezing the chicken mixture and making fresh dumplings when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings is the kind of recipe that feels like home.

It’s delicious, comforting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that brings warmth and happiness to your table.

So, gather your ingredients, follow along, and enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Celebrate the joy of cooking, and relish every bite!

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