Chicken and Dumplings

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. With its rich and creamy broth and fluffy dumplings made from scratch, this meal will surely impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or for a casual weeknight dinner, this comforting dish is versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Creamy Comfort: The rich broth combined with tender chicken creates a deliciously creamy experience.
• Homemade Dumplings: Enjoy the satisfaction of fluffy dumplings made from scratch in just minutes.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Chicken and Dumplings, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing scorching while cooking the broth.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.

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

• 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: Cook 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 and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add the evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously to create a roux that thickens the soup into a creamy texture.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

If using raw chicken: Add an extra cup of chicken broth (or water), then add in the raw chicken. Simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through. Shred the chicken before returning it to the soup.

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

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In another bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, fresh thyme, whole milk, and melted butter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep them light and fluffy.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover tightly with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Enjoy your warm bowl of homemade Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Family Style

• Serve the Chicken and Dumplings directly from the pot. This allows everyone to help themselves, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

• Ladle the chicken and dumplings into individual bowls for a more formal setting. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a touch of color.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme right before serving. This adds a pop of flavor and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side. This is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.

Topped with Crackers

• Crumble some saltine or buttery crackers over the top. This adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft dumplings.

Side Salad

• Pair with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette. The acidity balances the richness of the Chicken and Dumplings, making it a complete meal.

How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Perfecting Chicken and Dumplings involves paying attention to details in both preparation and cooking. Here are some key tips to help you create an outstanding dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring vibrant flavors to your dish, enhancing its overall taste.
• Don’t rush the roux: Take your time when making the roux to ensure it thickens properly without burning, resulting in a creamy broth.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks, adjusting salt and pepper as needed to achieve balanced flavors.
• Dumpling consistency matters: Ensure your dumpling dough is not too wet or dry; it should be sticky but manageable for fluffiness.
• Simmer gently: Keep the heat low while simmering; this allows the flavors to meld together without overcooking your ingredients.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let your Chicken and Dumplings rest for a few minutes. This helps thicken the broth further.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

When enjoying Chicken and Dumplings, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of Chicken and Dumplings.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness, making it a great contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent side that pairs well with savory chicken flavors.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast in flavor while being perfect for soaking up broth.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add depth of flavor; toss them with olive oil and seasonings before roasting.
6. Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens provides lightness, allowing you to enjoy your main dish fully.
7. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for dipping into the creamy soup, adding an extra layer of flavor.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after this hearty meal, providing sweetness without heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be a delightful experience, but certain pitfalls can ruin the dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Roux: Skipping the roux step can lead to a watery broth. Always cook the flour with the vegetables to thicken the soup properly.
• Overcooking the Dumplings: Cooking dumplings for too long can make them dense. Aim for just 15 minutes of simmering after adding them to the pot.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper based on your preference.
• Using Raw Chicken Improperly: If using raw chicken, ensure it cooks through before shredding. Simmering for at least 20 minutes is key.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs lack flavor compared to fresh ones. Whenever possible, use fresh thyme or other herbs for a more vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chicken and Dumplings will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-lock bag.
• It will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low flame in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify your Chicken and Dumplings experience.

What is Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces served in a rich broth with fluffy dumplings on top.

How do I make my dumplings fluffier?

To achieve fluffier dumplings, avoid over-mixing the dough. Mix just until combined.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using leftover cooked chicken can save time. Simply add it when you simmer the broth.

How do I customize my Chicken and Dumplings?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like peas or corn or using different herbs like rosemary or parsley.

What sides go well with Chicken and Dumplings?

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give it a try; you’ll love how comforting this dish is!