Chicken and Dumplings – A Delicious Comfort Food

Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite? Chicken and dumplings does just that! This timeless classic combines tender chicken simmered in a savory broth with fluffy, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make your mouth water as you anticipate the first spoonful.

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Growing up, my family would gather around the table on chilly evenings to enjoy this hearty meal. Each bowl was filled with love and laughter as we savored the rich flavors together. There’s something magical about the way the tender chicken melds with the soft dumplings, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish promises an unforgettable flavor experience that warms both your heart and your belly.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort food; its warm flavors and hearty ingredients provide a nurturing experience that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe without any fuss.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.

Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are ideal for their juiciness. You can also use breasts if preferred.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels while still providing robust flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for making the dumpling dough; it gives structure while remaining soft.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps create light and fluffy dumplings.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the dumpling mixture, resulting in a rich texture.

For seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors throughout the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Perfectly Cook Chicken and Dumplings

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add boneless skinless chicken thighs along with enough chicken broth to cover them completely. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before shredding.

Make Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Add Shredded Chicken

Return shredded chicken back into the pot with remaining broth. Bring to a light boil again before dropping spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the pot.

Cook Dumplings

Cover tightly with a lid and reduce heat to low. Allow simmering gently for about 15-20 minutes until dumplings are cooked through but still soft.

Serve

Transfer to bowls while hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for added flavor.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate flavors significantly.
• Don’t Overmix Dumpling Dough: Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings; mix just until combined for fluffier results.
• Adjust Thickness of Broth: If you prefer thicker broth, add a cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking to thicken it up nicely.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using the Wrong Chicken Cut: One of the most common mistakes when preparing chicken and dumplings is choosing the wrong cut of chicken. Opting for chicken breast can result in dry meat, as it cooks faster than other cuts. Instead, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or a whole chicken for rich flavor and moisture. The bones contribute to a deeper broth, while the skin adds essential fat that enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Overcooking the Dumplings: Dumplings are meant to be fluffy and tender, but overcooking them can lead to a gummy texture. To avoid this mistake, keep a close eye on the cooking time and ensure you do not let them boil too long. Ideally, dumplings should be steamed rather than boiled. Cover your pot and cook them just until they are cooked through, usually around 15 minutes, depending on the size.
• Not Seasoning the Broth Properly: Another frequent error is neglecting to season the broth adequately. A bland broth will lead to uninspiring chicken and dumplings. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can also elevate the flavor profile significantly. Experiment with spices to find what works best for your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Dumplings is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, enhancing your dining experience.
• Side Salad: A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty Chicken and Dumplings perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

What are the best types of chicken to use for Chicken and Dumplings?

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces is ideal for making Chicken and Dumplings. This choice ensures that your dish is rich in flavor, as the bones contribute to a more robust broth. You can opt for thighs or drumsticks, which remain tender during cooking. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts will also work; just remember they may dry out if overcooked. For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the chicken before adding it to your stew.

Can I make Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time. However, it’s best to make the dumplings fresh right before serving. If you plan to store leftovers, keep the dumplings separate from the broth to prevent them from becoming soggy. Store the chicken and broth in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before adding freshly made dumplings for a delightful meal.

How do I thicken the broth in my Chicken and Dumplings?

If you find your broth too thin when making Chicken and Dumplings, there are several methods to thicken it. One popular option is to create a slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water; add this mixture to your simmering broth while stirring continuously until it thickens. Alternatively, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables into the broth or add a roux made from flour and butter for a richer texture.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Chicken and Dumplings?

Absolutely! Using frozen vegetables is a convenient option for making Chicken and Dumplings. They are usually blanched before freezing, so they retain their nutrients and texture well. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they heat through without becoming mushy. This method saves time while still giving you a hearty meal packed with flavor.

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Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

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Chicken and Dumplings is a cozy and satisfying dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. This easy-to-make recipe features tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, accompanied by light and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this dish fills your home with its inviting aroma and brings loved ones together around the dinner table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can enjoy this hearty delight. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor, and prepare to savor every comforting spoonful.

• Author: Gordon Calloway
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine chicken thighs and enough broth to cover them; season with salt and pepper.
2. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked; shred and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and pepper; stir until just combined.
4. Add shredded chicken back to the pot; bring to a light boil and drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the broth.
5. Cover tightly and reduce heat; simmer for about 15-20 minutes until dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve hot with optional fresh herb garnish.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

In summary, Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. By choosing quality ingredients like bone-in chicken pieces and pairing your meal with sides like steamed vegetables or crusty bread, you enhance its appeal. Remember that preparing this dish can be flexible; you can customize it by using frozen vegetables or adjusting thickness according to your preference. Making this recipe ahead of time allows for quick meals throughout the week while keeping flavors intact. Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken and Dumplings!