Introduction
Chicken and dumplings is a comforting homemade meal made with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, creamy broth, and soft, fluffy dumplings. It is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Instruction
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 cup frozen peas
For the Dumplings
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
3 tablespoons melted butter
Method
- Heat the oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned on both sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth. Add the salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Return the chicken to the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the peas.
- Prepare the dumplings by mixing the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough gently into the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. The dumplings should become fluffy and cooked through.
- Gently stir the soup around the dumplings and serve hot.
Benefits
This meal provides protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the dumplings, and vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, and peas. The warm broth also makes it a comforting choice for a satisfying family meal.
Nutrition
Approximate nutrition per serving:
Calories: 430
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Nutrition values can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size.
Tips
Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor.
Do not overmix the dumpling dough, or the dumplings may become dense.
Keep the lid closed while the dumplings cook so they steam properly.
For a thicker, creamier version, add 1/2 cup of milk or cream near the end of cooking.
Taste the broth before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Conclusion
This classic chicken and dumplings recipe is warm, filling, and packed with homemade comfort. Tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, rich broth, and fluffy dumplings come together in one delicious pot, making it a wonderful meal for a cozy family dinner.