Chicken and Dumplings

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings features a rich and creamy broth filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy broth and soft dumplings create a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Made from scratch in just minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables, chicken, and herbs results in a deeply flavorful dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Chicken and Dumplings with various vegetables or herbs based on your preferences.
• Comfort Food: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, warming you from the inside out.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty meal, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chicken and Dumplings, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: This ensures even heat distribution while cooking, preventing burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture in both the broth and dumplings.

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 Broth

• 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: Cook the Vegetables

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 cooked vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add the evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. This roux will thicken your soup.

Step 3: Add Chicken

If using raw chicken: Add an extra cup of chicken broth (or water) along with the raw chicken. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Shred the chicken before returning it to the soup. Lower the heat to let it simmer uncovered while you prepare the dumplings.

If using pre-cooked chicken: Bring the mixture to a boil before adding the shredded chicken along with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Let it simmer uncovered while you make the dumplings.

Step 4: Prepare Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, whole milk, and melted butter. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing as this can make dumplings tough.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings

Once your soup is simmering nicely, drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the pot. Cover tightly with a lid and let them steam for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy.

With these steps completed, you’ll have delicious Chicken and Dumplings ready in no time! Enjoy this comforting meal that brings warmth to any table.

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

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

Classic Presentation

• Serve the Chicken and Dumplings in wide, shallow bowls to allow for easy access to the creamy broth and fluffy dumplings.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley on top before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.

Accompany with Bread

• Pair the dish with crusty bread or dinner rolls. They are perfect for dipping in the rich broth.

Side Salad

• A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of Chicken and Dumplings beautifully, adding freshness to the meal.

Family-Style Serving

• Place the pot directly on the table for a casual, family-style meal. Allow everyone to serve themselves for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Individual Portions

• For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in ramekins, topped with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

To create the ideal Chicken and Dumplings, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Homemade Stock: For an unbeatable flavor, consider making your own chicken stock. It adds depth and richness that store-bought versions may lack.
• Don’t Overmix Dumpling Batter: When making dumplings, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low while simmering your soup. A gentle simmer prevents overcooking the chicken and keeps the dumplings tender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors tailored to your preference.
• Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by incorporating additional veggies like peas or corn into your Chicken and Dumplings for added texture and taste.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick, balancing well with the creaminess of the broth.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

Complementing Chicken and Dumplings with side dishes can create a balanced meal that pleases everyone at the table. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy dish.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs well with Chicken and Dumplings.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a nice crunch and tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the main dish.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as another comforting side that makes this meal even heartier.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a deliciously soft texture that complements each bite of Chicken and Dumplings.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides freshness that cuts through the rich soup.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that enhance this comforting meal experience.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying the hearty flavors of Chicken and Dumplings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be simple, but mistakes can lead to a less enjoyable dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or milk can prevent your soup from reaching the right temperature quickly. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the roux while adding liquids can cause lumps and burning. Keep stirring constantly for a smooth, creamy broth.
• Overcooking the dumplings: Cooking dumplings for too long can make them tough. Follow the timing carefully to keep them fluffy and light.
• Skipping seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality or expired ingredients can affect the taste. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best Chicken and Dumplings experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal taste.
• Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best if consumed within 1-2 months for best flavor.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chicken and Dumplings:

What is Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish made with shredded chicken in a creamy broth, topped with fluffy dumplings. It’s perfect for cozy dinners!

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using cooked chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just add it during the simmering step of the soup.

How do I make gluten-free dumplings?

To make gluten-free dumplings, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Adjust liquid as needed to achieve the right consistency.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes! Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and color. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

What’s the best way to thicken my broth if it’s too thin?

If your broth is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup and cook until thickened.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Its rich flavors combined with soft dumplings make it versatile enough for any occasion. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personal touch!