Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. This hearty dish features tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings. The combination of rich flavors and textures makes it a favorite for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Provides rich, flavorful meat that’s perfect for simmering.
- 1 can Cream of Celery Soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the broth.
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup: Enhances the chicken flavor and creates a smooth, velvety base.
- 1 Yellow Onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth: The foundation of the soup, infusing the dish with a savory chicken flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and color.
- 1 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the chicken and enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 cups Thawed Mixed Vegetables: A colorful mix of veggies that adds nutrition and texture.
- 1 can Refrigerated Buttermilk Biscuits: The star of the dish, these biscuits become the fluffy dumplings that float on top of the soup.
- Black Pepper, to taste: Adds a touch of heat and seasoning.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken thighs and cover them with water or chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked and tender, about 25-30 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Broth
- In the same pot, drain any excess water, leaving about 1 cup of liquid.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix well until the soups are fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add the poultry seasoning, fresh parsley, and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Chicken
- Stir in the thawed mixed vegetables and the shredded chicken into the pot.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
- Open the can of refrigerated buttermilk biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters.
- Drop the biscuit pieces gently into the simmering soup, spacing them out evenly. These will be your dumplings.
- Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through. The steam from the soup will help the dumplings rise and become fluffy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Once the dumplings are fully cooked, stir the soup gently to incorporate everything.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more black pepper or salt if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. The bones add richness to the broth.
- Homemade Dumplings: If you prefer homemade dumplings, mix 1 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of milk to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering soup instead of using biscuit dough.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites like carrots, peas, or corn.
- Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup before adding the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and dumplings are a hearty meal on their own, but you can serve them with:
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: For extra comfort, serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to thin the soup if needed. Be careful not to overcook the dumplings when reheating.
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy dinner at home, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simple pleasures of a homemade meal with this delicious and easy-to-make Chicken and Dumplings recipe!
