Comforting Chicken and Dumplings: A Classic Homemade Recipe
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of homemade Chicken and Dumplings, a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings. This timeless recipe features tender chunks of chicken simmered in a rich broth, paired with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you serving up a bowl of comforting goodness in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for a richer and more flavorful dish. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, Chicken and Dumplings can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the dumplings separately from the broth to prevent them from becoming soggy. When reheating, gently warm the broth on the stovetop and add the dumplings just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings? A: Yes, you can freeze Chicken and Dumplings for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
Additional Ingredients:
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken and Broth:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, water, unsalted butter, poultry seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, parsley, basil, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the boneless skinless chicken breast to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Make the Dumplings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Drop the dumpling dough by spoonfuls into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Add the Vegetables and Finish:
- Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, followed by the additional 3 cups of milk. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes:
- For added flavor, you can sauté the onion and garlic in the butter before adding the broth.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering broth until thickened.
- Be sure not to overmix the dumpling dough, as this can result in tough dumplings. Mix just until the dough comes together.
Variations:
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage to the broth for a burst of flavor.
- Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer and creamier broth.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Chicken and Dumplings, you can make the following substitutions:
- Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for the dumplings.
- Use cauliflower florets instead of traditional dumplings for a low-carb option.
- Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to warm the soul. With its tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth, it’s a dish that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal on a chilly day or looking to impress your family and friends with a homemade classic, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort with this delightful Chicken and Dumplings recipe!
