Chicken and Dumplings

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. With a rich and creamy broth, plus fluffy dumplings made from scratch, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The unique combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy broth combined with tender chicken creates a delightful taste experience.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Hearty Meal: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish is satisfying and filling.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cold day or a family gathering, this recipe fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some items that will help you prepare this delicious meal effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This sturdy pot evenly distributes heat, ensuring your soup cooks perfectly without burning.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving time in the kitchen.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing dumpling dough; a good mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.

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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 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)

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

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 the vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Thicken the Soup

Add flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly incorporate evaporated milk and chicken stock while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Step 3: Add Chicken

If using raw chicken: Add an extra cup of chicken broth (or water) along with the raw chicken. Simmer for 20 minutes until cooked through. Shred the chicken and return it to the soup.

If using pre-cooked chicken: Bring to a boil before adding the pre-cooked chicken, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Lower heat; let simmer uncovered while you prepare the dumplings.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

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

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto the simmering soup. Cover tightly and cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid. The dumplings should be fluffy when done.

This dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms hearts—making it an instant favorite at any gathering! Enjoy your homemade Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Dumplings can elevate a cozy meal into a delightful experience. Pair your dish with complementary flavors and textures to enhance the overall enjoyment.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in deep bowls for a hearty meal.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added color.

Accompanying Bread

• Offer warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping.
• Consider cornbread for a sweet contrast to the savory soup.

Salad Pairing

• A fresh green salad adds crunch and freshness.
• Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dumplings.

Family Style Serving

• Place the pot on the table for a communal dining experience.
• Encourage everyone to serve themselves, making it more interactive.

How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Perfecting Chicken and Dumplings involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is comforting and delicious.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste frequently and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
• Make dumplings fluffy: Don’t overmix the dumpling batter; stir just until combined for lightness.
• Simmer gently: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer after adding dumplings to prevent them from becoming dense.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

Complement your Chicken and Dumplings with delightful side dishes. Here are some excellent options that pair well.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crisp contrast.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the main dish.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring earthy flavors that enhance the meal’s overall depth.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can soak up extra broth, making them an ideal pairing.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors in chicken soup wonderfully.
6. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for mopping up any remaining broth in your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes when making Chicken and Dumplings can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Boldly skip the roux: Not making a proper roux can lead to a watery soup. Ensure you cook the flour with butter thoroughly before adding liquids.
• Boldly ignore simmering time: Rushing the simmering process can result in undercooked chicken and dumplings. Allow enough time for flavors to meld.
• Boldly overmix the dumpling batter: Overmixing leads to tough dumplings. Stir just enough to combine ingredients for a fluffy texture.
• Boldly choose the wrong chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken can make your broth less rich. Raw chicken absorbs flavor during cooking, enhancing the dish.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Skipping proper seasoning will leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, adding broth if necessary to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken and Dumplings.

What is Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy broth topped with fluffy dumplings.

How can I customize my Chicken and Dumplings?

You can add vegetables like peas or corn, or adjust the herbs according to your taste for a personalized touch.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Using shredded cooked chicken is a great way to save time while still enjoying this delicious dish.

How do I make gluten-free Chicken and Dumplings?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for both the roux and dumpling mixture to create a gluten-free version.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. The rich broth paired with fluffy dumplings makes it both satisfying and versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings!