Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth, accompanied by fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a recipe that brings families together around the dinner table, creating memories with every bite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs), cut into pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional breakdown is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the cut chicken pieces and cook for about 30 minutes or until tender.
3. Remove chicken, allow it to cool, then shred.
4. In the same broth, add carrots, celery, and onion; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth.
8. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
9. Add shredded chicken back to the pot and stir gently.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken and dumplings pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. It also complements well with a light white wine for adults or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a little broth if needed. This dish can be frozen, but the dumplings may become slightly denser upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the dumplings steam properly can lead to dense texture.
- Overcooking chicken can make it dry; check for doneness.
- Skipping the simmering step for vegetables can leave them crunchy.
- Using too much flour in the dumpling mix can make them tough.
- Not covering the pot while dumplings cook can cause them not to rise.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
- Let the chicken cool before shredding for easier handling.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference.
- Experiment with adding spices like thyme or rosemary to the broth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is cooked thoroughly and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I do if my dumplings are too dense?
If your dumplings turn out dense, try reducing the flour slightly or ensuring you don’t overmix the batter.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours, then add dumplings in the last hour of cooking.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Yes, substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
How can I enhance the flavor of the broth?
Adding garlic, bay leaves, or even a splash of white wine can elevate the flavors of your broth significantly.
Conclusion
This chicken and dumplings recipe is a timeless classic that offers warmth and comfort in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s simple to prepare and even simpler to enjoy. Give it a try, and it may just become your new favorite dish!
The Best Chicken And Dumplings Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4-5 lbs, cut into pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the cut chicken pieces and cook for about 30 minutes or until tender.
- Remove chicken, allow it to cool, then shred.
- In the same broth, add carrots, celery, and onion; simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Add shredded chicken back to the pot and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
