Name: Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast or thighs (see notes); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 5 tablespoons butter; 1 small yellow onion (diced); 1 cup carrots (diced); 2 sticks celery (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (I use Franks hot sauce); 1/3 cup flour; 4 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 chicken bouillon cube optional; 1 ½ cups half and half; ¾ cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried rosemary; ½ teaspoon mustard powder; ¼ teaspoon ground sage; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 2 cups cake flour or all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons sugar

Introduction to Chicken and Dumplings

The Comfort of Chicken and Dumplings

There’s something truly special about Chicken and Dumplings. This classic dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or family gatherings. Imagine the warm, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender chicken simmers in a rich broth, paired with fluffy dumplings that soak up every bit of flavor. It’s a delightful hug in a bowl!

Whether you’re catering to a busy evening or simply looking to impress your loved ones, Chicken and Dumplings is easy to whip up. With ingredients likely already in your pantry, this recipe becomes a convenient go-to. Plus, adding homemade dumplings or using store-bought biscuits allows for flexibility that fits any lifestyle. If you’re curious about the origin of Chicken and Dumplings, it can be traced back to early American settlers, who made use of local resources to create a filling and hearty meal.

Not to mention, the nutritional benefits of chicken, filled with protein, paired with vegetables promotes a well-rounded diet. So, are you ready to create a bowl of nostalgia and love? Let’s dive into the details of this incredible dish and discover just how easy it is to make!

Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

When it comes to making delightful Chicken and Dumplings, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that comforting and rich flavor. Below is a quick guide to the essential elements you'll need.

Essential Ingredients for the Soup

To create a savory base for your Chicken and Dumplings, you'll need:

Chicken: 2 lbs. of bone-in skinless chicken breast or thighs for the best flavor.
Vegetables: A combination of 1 small yellow onion, 1 cup of diced carrots, and 2 sticks of diced celery.
Aromatic Enhancers: 3 cloves of minced garlic, alongside Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce for a kick.
Broth & Creaminess: 4 ½ cups of chicken broth, and 1 ½ cups of half and half for that creamy texture.
Seasonings: Don't forget your mix of herbs like dried basil, thyme, and rosemary, plus salt and pepper to taste.

For a deeper dive into chicken broth's benefits, check out this article.

Key Ingredients for the Dumplings

For the fluffy dumplings that float beautifully atop your soup, gather these must-haves:

Flour: 2 cups of cake flour or all-purpose flour as your base.
Leavening Agents: 2 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of baking soda for that rise.
Flavor Enhancers: A teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder to amp up the taste.
Creaminess: Use ¾ cup of cold sour cream mixed with ¼ cup of cold milk to keep your dumplings tender.
Butter: 4 tablespoons of melted butter add moisture and flavor.

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to creating a Chicken and Dumplings dish that's sure to warm both hearts and bellies!

Preparing Chicken and Dumplings

Cooking Chicken and Dumplings is not just about preparing a meal; it's about creating warmth and comfort in your kitchen. Let's dive into each step of this delightful recipe together!

Sear the Chicken

Searing the chicken isn't mandatory, but it’s recommended if you want to elevate your dish's flavor. Start by seasoning both sides of your bone-in, skinless chicken with salt and pepper. In a 4 ½-quart soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken in the pot and cook for about three minutes on each side, allowing a golden-brown crust to form. Once seared, let the chicken rest for ten minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

Create the Soup Base

Next, we’ll build the heart of your Chicken and Dumplings: the soup! In the same pot (that’s right—don’t wash it just yet), melt five tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking them until they soften slightly, which should take about five minutes. Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and your seasoning mix. After a minute of cooking, add flour to the mixture, stirring continuously for two minutes. Gradually pour in chicken broth while scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Finally, stir in half and half and, if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a chicken bouillon cube for extra flavor. Let it simmer while we work on the dumplings.

Whip Together the Dumpling Mixture

For the dumplings, grab a medium bowl and combine two cups of cake flour (you can also use all-purpose flour), baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar. Then, add in three-quarters cup of cold sour cream, a quarter cup of cold milk, and four tablespoons of melted butter. Gently mix this until combined, but be careful not to overmix; we want fluffy dumplings, not dense bricks!

Bring It All Together

Now, add your seared chicken back into the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated. Give it a good stir to mix everything. Using a small cookie scoop, place the dumpling mixture over the soup evenly. Spoon a little liquid over each dumpling to keep them moist as they cook. Cover the pot tightly and increase the heat slightly to bring it to a gentle simmer. Set a timer for 15 minutes and resist the urge to lift the lid—this is key for steaming the dumplings!

Cook the Dumplings to Perfection

After 15 minutes, carefully uncover and use a toothpick to check the doneness of the dumplings. If it comes out clean, congratulations! If not, cover and simmer for a few more minutes. Once your dumplings are fluffy and the soup is bubbling up beneath, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. This balanced blend of savory chicken, tender dumplings, and rich broth is bound to bring smiles all around the dinner table.

Enjoy your Chicken and Dumplings, and maybe share a bit of this cozy comfort food joy with a friend! For more inspiration, check out articles on making comfort food or the benefits of cooking with fresh ingredients.

Variations on Chicken and Dumplings

Gluten-free dumplings

Adapting Chicken and Dumplings for gluten-free diets is easier than you might think! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or a mix of almond flour and tapioca starch. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, so you might want to experiment to find your perfect ratio. Adding a bit of xanthan gum can help mimic the elasticity of traditional dumplings, ensuring a delightful and hearty meal without sacrificing flavor!

Adding vegetables or spices

Enhance your Chicken and Dumplings by incorporating seasonal vegetables or your favorite spices. For instance, toss in some spinach or sweet corn for an extra color pop and nutrients. A sprinkle of paprika or cayenne can add a delightful kick, while fresh herbs like thyme or dill will elevate the dish's freshness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—so feel free to get creative! Want inspiration? Check out Wholesome Yum for more ideas!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken and Dumplings

Pro Tips for Flavor Enhancement

For the best Chicken and Dumplings, searing the chicken first is key. This method not only enhances the flavor of your broth but also adds texture to the chicken itself. Don't shy away from the Worcestershire sauce and mustard powder—they work wonders as flavor boosters without being overpowering.

Ingredient Substitutions to Consider

Feel free to get creative! Instead of chicken, you could use turkey or even plant-based options for a lighter meal. If you’re in a pinch for half-and-half, a combination of milk and heavy cream works perfectly. Additionally, if you want to save time, refrigerated biscuits can substitute for homemade dumplings. For more cooking tips, check out this helpful article on cooking techniques.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Dumplings

Complementary Sides

To round out your Chicken and Dumplings, consider serving refreshing sides that bring balance to the richness of the dish. Some excellent options include:

Steamed green beans: Their crunch will complement the soft texture of the dumplings.
Garlic mashed potatoes: A creamy side that adds comfort without overpowering the meal.
Simple garden salad: A light, fresh option with a vinaigrette can cleanse the palate beautifully.

Garnishing Ideas

Take your Chicken and Dumplings to the next level with tasteful garnishes. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds vibrant color and a hint of freshness.
Chives: Thinly sliced chives introduce an oniony flavor that enhances the dish.
Lemon zest: A delicate sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the overall taste and aroma.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions for a meal that feels complete and satisfying! For more tips, check out this guide on pairings for hearty comfort foods.

Time breakdown for Chicken and Dumplings

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for Chicken and Dumplings will take about 20 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables, seasoning the chicken, and mixing your dumpling dough.

Cooking time

The cooking process lasts around 40 minutes. This time covers both simmering the savory soup and steaming those delightful dumplings.

Total time

In just 1 hour, you can whip up a delicious, comforting meal that serves up to six people. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in! For more insights on preparation, consider checking out this guide on meal prepping.

Are you ready to dive into this comforting dish? It’s easier than you think—let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!

Nutritional facts for Chicken and Dumplings

Calories per serving

Each serving of this hearty Chicken and Dumplings dish contains approximately 657 calories. This makes it a filling option for dinner, perfect for those cozy nights in.

Protein content

You'll get a nice boost of 35 grams of protein per serving, largely thanks to the chicken. This protein-rich ingredient not only keeps you feeling full but also supports muscle repair and growth.

Sodium levels

Be mindful of the sodium content; each serving can contain around 1,200 mg of sodium. To reduce this, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and omitting the bouillon cube. For more tips on managing sodium levels, check out this resource from the American Heart Association.

These nutritious facts make Chicken and Dumplings a well-rounded meal that nourishes and satisfies. Enjoy!

FAQs about Chicken and Dumplings

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time and add rich flavor to your Chicken and Dumplings. Simply add about 3 cups of cooked chicken when you're ready to incorporate the dumplings. This makes it a convenient dish, especially for busy weeknights!

What is the best way to store chicken and dumplings?

To keep your Chicken and Dumplings tasting fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it without the dumplings, as they'll become mushy once thawed. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to help revive its creamy texture.

Can dumplings be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the dumpling dough in advance! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This way, you won't miss a beat during dinner prep, and you can enjoy a comforting meal in no time! For more tips on storing and reheating, check out this resource.

Conclusion on Chicken and Dumplings

In conclusion, Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that warms both the heart and the belly. With its hearty flavors and fluffy dumplings, this dish is perfect for family dinners. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic in American cuisine. Happy cooking!