Chicken and Dumplings

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and quick preparation time. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this classic meal from scratch, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe allows you to create a delicious meal in just 50 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich and creamy broth combined with tender chicken delivers a heartwarming flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or cook raw chicken right in the pot—this recipe adapts to what you have on hand.
• Homemade Dumplings: Making dumplings from scratch adds a special touch, elevating your meal without extra effort.
• Family-Friendly: With its hearty ingredients and satisfying texture, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken and Dumplings, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing burning while thickening the broth.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining dry ingredients for the dumplings without any mess.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth incorporation of flour into the broth, avoiding lumps.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up generous portions of this delicious dish.

Ingredients

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings has a rich and creamy broth with big fluffy dumplings that are made from scratch in just minutes!

For the Soup Base

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or half and half)
• 1 (32 oz) quart chicken stock (+1 extra cup of broth if using raw chicken)
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (or 1.5 lbs raw, skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste)
• salt (to taste)

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 3/4 cup (6 oz) whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

In a large heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Add flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add the evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. This roux will thicken the soup and make it creamy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

If using raw chicken: Add an extra cup of chicken broth (or water) along with the raw chicken. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. Shred the cooked chicken before returning it to the soup. Lower heat and let simmer uncovered while preparing the dumplings.

If using pre-cooked chicken: Bring soup to a boil then add cooked chicken along with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Reduce heat and allow to simmer uncovered while you prepare dumplings.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, whole milk, and melted butter until just mixed. Do not overmix; lumps are okay as they will cook out during steaming.

Step 5: Add Dumplings to Soup

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into simmering soup. Cover pot tightly and cook for about 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Enjoy your warm bowl of homemade Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley or thyme – Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the top for added flavor and a pop of color.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.

Paired with Salad

• Add a side salad – A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and dumplings.

With Pickles

• Include pickled vegetables – The acidity of pickles enhances the flavors of the dish and adds crunch.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheese – A sprinkle of your favorite cheese, like cheddar, adds richness and depth to each bowl.

How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Creating the perfect Chicken and Dumplings requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t skip the roux – Making a roux ensures your broth is creamy without lumps.
• Cook dumplings properly – Ensure they are cooked through; they should be fluffy but firm.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper according to preference.
• Let it simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

Pairing your Chicken and Dumplings with complementary side dishes enhances the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Green Beans – Bright, tender green beans sautéed in garlic add crunch and freshness.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of chicken and dumplings.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a hearty side that balances well with the main dish.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice for soaking up leftover broth.
5. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting addition alongside this dish.
6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad adds freshness, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that might affect your dish’s outcome.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using low-quality chicken or stock can ruin the flavor. Always choose fresh or high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Bold neglecting the roux: Failing to cook the flour long enough can lead to a raw taste. Stir constantly and allow it to bubble slightly before adding liquids.
• Bold overcrowding the pot: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the temperature of the broth. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Bold dumpling size inconsistency: Making dumplings of uneven size can lead to uneven cooking. Use a scoop or measure to ensure they are uniform.
• Bold skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning at different stages can result in bland soup. Ensure you season throughout the cooking process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Chicken and Dumplings.

What is the best chicken for Chicken and Dumplings?

The best chicken for this recipe is shredded cooked chicken or skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Both options provide great flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well; just adjust the cooking time since they are pre-cut and will cook faster than fresh veggies.

How do I make my dumplings fluffier?

For fluffier dumplings, ensure you don’t overmix the dough. A light hand helps them stay tender.

Can I add other proteins besides chicken?

Yes! You can experiment with turkey or even use beef for a different twist on this comforting dish.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe offers rich flavors and comforting textures, perfect for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste!