Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Gourmet And Food

When it comes to serving up a steaming bowl of chicken and dumplings, think about what sides complement this dish beautifully. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast. You might also enjoy roasted veggies for a touch of sweetness. 

A light, fluffy biscuit could work wonders, too, perfect for sopping up that delicious broth.

Now that we’re all set with sides, let’s dive into why this recipe is a true gem for anyone looking to whip up a comforting meal.

Life can get overwhelming. Work, chores, social obligations—it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. That's where easy chicken and dumplings come in. 

This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s hearty, satisfying, and downright delicious.

From scratch?

 You bet! Making chicken and dumplings from scratch allows you to control the ingredients. You can ensure everything is fresh and nutritious. 

I've crafted this recipe to be simple yet flavorful, with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It brings a sense of accomplishment and home-cooked joy that store-bought just can’t match.

Having made this recipe countless times, I can confidently say it’s a crowd-pleaser. You’ll sense the love your family and friends will feel digging into this cozy meal. So, let’s look at what you’ll need!

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Ingredients

Here’s a rundown of what you'll need for delicious chicken and dumplings, along with measurements to keep everything straightforward:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, with extra for garnish
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup full-fat milk, divided
• 2 small carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks with leaves, finely chopped
• 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken breast
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, separated
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, separated
• Freshly ground black pepper and extra salt to taste

How to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings from Scratch

Now, let’s get our hands a bit dirty. Cooking can be therapeutic, after all! I’ll break this down step by step so you can visualize the process clearly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

If you don’t have leftover chicken, it's easy to poach some. Simply bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook your chicken breasts for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Shred it up and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes. 

The aroma will already start to fill your kitchen and uplift your spirits.

Step 3: Create the Broth

Now, it's time to add depth. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well. Add the cooked chicken, garlic powder, salt, and fresh thyme. 

Bring it to a gentle simmer. This broth is the base of your dish; a good one brings everything together.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining milk and melted butter (the other 2 tablespoons). 

Pour this milk mixture into the flour mixture, stirring gently. You’re looking for a nice dough consistency. Try not to overwork it; dumplings need a bit of fluff.

Step 5: Drop the Dumplings

Scoop out portions of the dough and drop them into the simmering broth. The dumplings will rise as they cook, absorbing those wonderful flavors. 

You’ll want to ensure they’re spaced out a bit; they’ll expand.

Step 6: Cover and Cook

Cover your pot tightly and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. Resist the urge to peek! This steam is essential for making them fluffy. 

When time is up, lift the lid and sprinkle fresh parsley and thyme over your creation.

Step 7: Serve and Relish

Stir gently to combine the broth and dumplings. Ladle the comforting mixture into bowls. Enjoy, and don’t hold back on seconds!

Recipe Notes

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in this recipe. Let’s explore them further:

• Fresh Parsley: Not only does it add vibrant color, but it also provides a fresh, herby flavor that lifts the dish.
  
• Kosher Salt: This enhances all the flavors, making sure each bite is savory.
  
• Thyme: A classic herb in chicken dishes, it brings an earthy aroma, reminiscent of comforting family meals.
  
• Chicken Broth: Opting for low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness, enhancing the flavor without overwhelming your dish.
  
• Garlic Powder: Handy for adding depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
  
• Full-fat Milk: This makes the broth creamier, adding richness you won't regret.
  
• Carrots and Celery: These classic mirepoix ingredients provide sweetness and texture.
  
• Chicken: The star of the dish; cooked, shredded chicken makes everything hearty and filling.
  
• Onion: It adds a sweet and aromatic layer that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
  
• Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing veggies and enriching the broth.
  
• Baking Soda: This makes your dumplings fluffy and light.
  
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the dumpling base, providing structure and texture.
  
• Black Pepper: A little kick that balances with the other flavors.
  

Recipe Variations

There are many ways to switch things up if you want to add a personal twist:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
  
• Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or some hot sauce for an extra kick!
  
• Herb Savvy: Experiment with different herbs like dill or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.
  
• Dumpling Delight: Add shredded cheese to the dumpling mix for a cheesy twist.
  
• Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a subtly sweet flavor.
  

Nutrition Facts

Easy chicken and dumplings from scratch nutrition facts

Conclusion

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or daunting. This easy chicken and dumplings recipe is proof of that. It’s all about blending simple ingredients to create something heartwarming and delicious. 

With every bite, you'll taste the love and care that went into it, and trust me, your family will appreciate it.

Sharing meals brings us together, and this dish does just that. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering of friends, it’s bound to be a hit. 

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen! Here's to comforting meals that fill the belly and warm the soul. Enjoy every spoonful!

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