Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ cup whole milk

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

February 26, 2025

Updated:

February 26, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? Picture a steaming bowl of chicken and dumplings, where tender chicken mingles with fluffy dumplings in a rich broth. This classic comfort food is the perfect antidote for chilly nights or when you simply need a taste of home.

As I reminisce about my childhood, I can’t help but recall the aroma wafting from my grandmother’s kitchen as she prepared her famous chicken and dumplings. The soft, pillowy dumplings floating atop the savory broth always made my mouth water. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in love and tradition. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy weekends at home, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings

Comfort Food Classic: Chicken and dumplings provide the ultimate cozy meal that warms the soul on cold days.
Easy to Make: This dish requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe by adding vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Feeds a Crowd: With generous portions, this recipe is great for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are ideal as they remain juicy during cooking; you can also use breasts if preferred.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture; slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Celery: Celery brings an aromatic flavor; choose firm stalks to enhance the broth’s taste.
Onion: A chopped onion adds depth to the flavor profile; use yellow onions for their sweetness.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor.

For the Dumplings:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating tender dumplings; ensure it’s sifted before measuring.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the dumplings rise and become fluffy.
Milk: Use whole milk for richness; it helps create soft dough for the dumplings.

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

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened—about five minutes.

Step 3: Add Broth

Pour in six cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with the seasoned chicken pieces. Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat to simmer.

Step 4: Make Dumpling Dough

In a bowl, combine two cups of all-purpose flour with baking powder. Gradually stir in one cup of milk until just combined.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Cover with a lid and cook for about fifteen minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once cooked through (the dumplings should be fluffy), ladle into bowls. Enjoy your homemade chicken and dumplings!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

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

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor significantly; opt for seasonal produce when possible.
Avoid Overmixing Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your dumplings light and airy.
Keep It Covered: Avoid lifting the lid while cooking the dumplings; it helps them steam properly.

Mistakes to avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: One common mistake when preparing chicken and dumplings is overcooking the chicken. When you simmer the chicken for too long, it can become dry and lose its flavor. To retain moisture, cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remember, it will continue to cook a bit more even after you remove it from heat, so aim for that perfect timing.
Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can hinder the dumpling-making process. For the best results, ensure that your butter and milk are at room temperature before mixing them into your dough. Cold ingredients can lead to dense and tough dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones. Always plan ahead to let your ingredients warm up before you start cooking.
Ignoring the Broth Consistency: A rich broth is essential for delicious chicken and dumplings. If your broth is too thin, it will lack flavor and won’t coat the dumplings properly. To enhance your broth’s richness, consider adding a few extra spices or using homemade stock instead of store-bought versions. A thicker broth not only boosts flavor but also improves the overall texture of the dish.

Ingredients

To create a delicious Chicken and Dumplings, gather the following ingredients. This recipe serves four and is perfect for a comforting meal.

– 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts

– 4 cups of chicken broth

– 1 cup of diced carrots

– 1 cup of diced celery

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cups of all-purpose flour

– 1 tablespoon of baking powder

– 1 teaspoon of salt

– ½ cup of milk

– ¼ cup of butter, melted

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Chicken and Dumplings. Each step is crucial for achieving that hearty flavor you crave.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they soften, about five minutes. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.

While the chicken cooks, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Stir in the melted butter and milk until you form a dough. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let them cook for about 15 minutes until they rise. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Dumplings is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed green beans offer a crisp contrast to this creamy dish.
A side salad adds freshness and balances out the richness.
Bread rolls are perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken in Chicken and Dumplings?

If you’re looking for alternatives in your Chicken and Dumplings recipe, consider using turkey or even plant-based options like tofu or seitan. For those who prefer seafood, shrimp can also be an exciting twist on this classic dish. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on your choice of protein, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

Can I make Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time by cooking everything except for the dumplings. Store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat your mixture on low heat and drop in fresh dumplings to cook just before serving for optimal texture.

How do I store leftover Chicken and Dumplings?

To store leftover Chicken and Dumplings effectively, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider storing dumplings separately as they may become mushy when thawed.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Using frozen vegetables in your Chicken and Dumplings saves prep time without sacrificing flavor. Simply add them directly into the pot along with the broth; they will cook down beautifully as you simmer everything together.

Conclusion for Chicken and Dumplings

In conclusion, Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth to any table. With simple ingredients like chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings made from scratch, this dish is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it at family gatherings, its rich flavors are sure to please everyone’s palate. Don’t hesitate to experiment with sides or variations—this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious! Enjoy every bite of this heartwarming meal!