Chicken and Dumplings

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food. With a rich and creamy broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings made from scratch, this dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. The balance of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and warm spices makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the flavors of fresh ingredients combined into a deliciously creamy soup.
• Versatile: Customize your Chicken and Dumplings with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s cold outside or you’re just craving comfort food, this dish warms the heart.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this classic dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Chicken and Dumplings, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This pot retains heat well and allows for even cooking, perfect for simmering soups.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings features a variety of fresh ingredients that create a flavorful dish.

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté 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 pot and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

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 until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken and return it to the soup. Lower heat and let simmer uncovered while preparing dumplings.

If using pre-cooked chicken: Bring soup to a boil then add shredded chicken along with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Lower heat again so it simmers uncovered while you make dumplings.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter

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

Step 5: Drop in Dumplings

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover with a lid and let cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 6: Serve

Once dumplings are cooked through (they will be fluffy), serve hot garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful experience, as it brings warmth and comfort to the table. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavor and presentation.

Family Style

• Big Pot on the Table: Serve the Chicken and Dumplings straight from the pot for a cozy family dinner. This encourages everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with crusty bread on the side for a more elegant presentation.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits complement the dumplings well, adding extra heartiness to your meal.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors of your Chicken and Dumplings.

How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Perfecting Chicken and Dumplings involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose good quality chicken for richer flavor. Consider using organic or free-range chicken if possible.
• Make Your Own Broth: Homemade chicken broth enhances the taste significantly compared to store-bought varieties.
• Don’t Overmix Dumpling Dough: When preparing dumplings, mix just until combined to ensure they remain light and fluffy.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper gradually for perfect seasoning without overwhelming flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

Pairing sides with Chicken and Dumplings can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with creamy dumplings.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide an extra layer of comfort food alongside the soup.
3. Simple Salad: A light salad with mixed greens can balance out the richness of Chicken and Dumplings.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are a delightful addition that pairs well with savory flavors.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts complements the rich broth wonderfully.
6. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the heaviness of the dumplings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin this comforting dish.

• Overcooking the Dumplings: If you let the dumplings cook for too long, they can become tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time for fluffy dumplings.
• Using Low-Quality Chicken: Using bland or low-quality chicken can affect the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best taste.
• Skipping the Roux: A roux is essential for a creamy broth. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth and richness to your Chicken and Dumplings.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
• Using Cold Ingredients for Dumplings: Ensure your milk and melted butter are at room temperature. This helps create light, fluffy dumplings.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Chicken and Dumplings can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chicken and Dumplings so comforting?

Chicken and Dumplings is comfort food due to its creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings that remind many of home-cooked meals.

Can I use frozen chicken in my Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it cooks thoroughly before shredding it into your soup.

How do I make Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.

What sides pair well with Chicken and Dumplings?

A simple salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich flavors of Chicken and Dumplings nicely.

Can I customize my Chicken and Dumplings recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or corn or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Give it a try, and enjoy the comfort it brings!

Print

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

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Description

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. This delightful dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy broth and topped with fluffy, homemade dumplings. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy evenings at home, this recipe combines fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs to create a wonderfully balanced meal. In just under an hour, you can whip up a hearty dish that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Enjoy the comforting flavors that remind you of home with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 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 whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Gradually add evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring until smooth.
3. If using raw chicken, add it along with extra broth/water; simmer for 20 minutes until cooked through. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
4. For pre-cooked chicken: bring soup to boil, add shredded chicken along with thyme and seasoning; lower heat and let simmer.
5. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, whole milk, and melted butter until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover and cook without lifting the lid for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
7. Serve hot garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 560
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Use quality chicken for better flavor; consider homemade broth for richness. Don't overmix dumpling dough to ensure they remain light and fluffy. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas or adjusting seasonings.