Introduction to Chicken and Dumplings
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of Chicken and Dumplings? This beloved dish embodies the essence of home-cooked meals. Imagine tender pieces of chicken swimming in a rich, flavorful broth, accompanied by fluffy dumplings that soak up all that goodness. It's like a warm hug on a chilly day!
What Makes Chicken and Dumplings a Classic Comfort Food?
One key reason Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless favorite is its adaptability. You can whip it up with homemade dumplings or take a shortcut with refrigerated biscuits, making it accessible for busy young professionals. The heart of this dish lies in its simplicity; it combines wholesome ingredients like chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a symphony of flavors.
Comfort food often evokes nostalgic feelings. For many, Chicken and Dumplings brings back memories of gathering around the dinner table with family, sharing stories over a hearty meal. According to food historians, dishes that incorporate a single pot method and hearty ingredients tend to be viewed as comforting. Plus, the therapeutic process of preparing this meal—chopping, simmering, and spooning the dumplings—can be a delightfully engaging experience.
Ready to bring a taste of comfort into your home? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow Chicken and Dumplings recipe!
Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
Essential ingredients for the dish
When crafting a bowl of comforting Chicken and Dumplings, starting with the right ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need for a hearty and flavorful dish:
- Chicken: Opt for 2 lbs. of bone-in, skinless chicken breast or thighs for deep flavor.
- Vegetables: A mix of onion, carrots, and celery gives your soup a savory base.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pop of flavor.
- Dairy: Combine half and half for creaminess and frozen peas for sweetness.
- Broth: Use 4 ½ cups of chicken broth for a rich, savory foundation.
Optional spices for enhanced flavor
Elevate your Chicken and Dumplings with some optional spices that can truly enhance the flavor:
- Dried Herbs: Consider adding 1 teaspoon of dried basil, parsley, and thyme.
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: A teaspoon or half can add extra layers of taste without overpowering the dish.
- Mustard Powder and Hot Sauce: A teaspoon of each can bring warmth and depth to the broth.
These simple yet effective ingredients will help create a dish that's not just filling but also bursting with flavor! For more ingredient tips, check out this guide on herbs and spices.
Step-by-step preparation of Chicken and Dumplings
Making Chicken and Dumplings is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the details of this comforting dish, step by step!
Prepare the chicken
First things first, you need 2 lbs. of bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Season each piece with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for flavor. In a 4 ½-quart soup pot, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken. Sear for about three minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. It’s okay if the center is still raw; we’ll cook it through later. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes and then cut it into bite-sized pieces, discarding any bones. This searing process adds robust flavor to your Chicken and Dumplings.
Sauté the vegetables
Now, let’s infuse additional flavor into the dish. In the same pot, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Go ahead and add diced yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for around five minutes until they're tender. The smell will be heavenly! Next, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves along with Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to taste. Cook for another minute, and don’t rush this; it’s where a lot of your flavor comes from.
Create the broth mixture
After sautéing those aromatic veggies, sprinkle ⅓ cup of flour into the pot and toss everything to coat. This will help thicken our broth later. Allow the flour to cook for a couple of minutes—trust me, you’ll want to scrape any tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Gradually pour in 4 ½ cups of chicken broth and include half and half for a rich creaminess. If you want to amp up the flavor even more, toss in a chicken bouillon cube here, along with ¾ cup of frozen peas. Let this mixture come to a gentle boil before moving onto the dumplings.
Make the dumpling dough
For those fluffy, pillowy dumplings, combine 2 cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and other dry ingredients like salt and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Then, add ¾ cup of cold sour cream and ¼ cup of cold milk. Gently fold the ingredients together until a dough forms—don’t overmix; nobody likes dense dumplings!
Cook the dumplings in the broth
Now it’s time for the grand finale! Stir your chopped chicken back into the bubbling broth. Using a small cookie scoop, dollop the dumpling dough evenly over the soup. Spoon a little broth over each dumpling for extra moisture. Cover the pot tightly and increase the heat slightly. Set your timer for 15 minutes—don’t peek! Once done, check that the dumplings are cooked through with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, you’ve nailed it!
Now grab a bowl, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy this warm, classic Chicken and Dumplings. It’s perfect for dinner or a comforting lunch the next day!
Variations on Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and Dumplings with a Twist: Adding Veggies
Why not spice up your classic Chicken and Dumplings by incorporating a variety of seasonal vegetables? Adding greens like spinach or kale not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet corn can elevate the dish, making it even more comforting and satisfying. Sauté the veggies alongside the onions or toss them in during the cooking process. This variation is perfect for those who want to sneak extra nutrients into their meal without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings
For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free Chicken and Dumplings is easier than you think! Simply swap out all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend when making the dumplings. Make sure to check the labels on your baking powder and chicken broth, as some can contain gluten. This adaptation doesn’t compromise taste or texture, allowing everyone to enjoy this cozy dish. With these modifications, you’ll have a meal that accommodates your friends and family, making it a go-to recipe for any gathering!
For more delicious variations, check out this article on creative dumpling recipes that can inspire your next culinary adventure!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken and Dumplings
Pro Tips for Perfect Dumplings
For great dumplings that are fluffy and light, avoid overmixing. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. This keeps the dumplings tender! Remember to steam them covered without lifting the lid for 15 minutes; this ensures they cook evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Salt and Sodium Management Advice
When making Chicken and Dumplings, sodium control is essential for a healthy meal. To reduce salt, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and skipping the bouillon cube. Additionally, opt for unsalted butter. This allows you to enjoy the full flavor of your ingredients without overwhelming your taste buds. Balancing seasoning is key to enhancing your dish!
For more cooking insights, check out this guide on seasoning.
Serving suggestions for Chicken and Dumplings
What to pair with this comfort food?
When enjoying Chicken and Dumplings, consider serving it with a light side salad, such as a fresh arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice. Alternatively, buttery sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts can elevate your meal with a touch of color and flavor. A warm, crusty bread complements this dish perfectly, allowing you to soak up that rich, savory broth!
Creative serving ideas
For a fun twist, try serving Chicken and Dumplings in a bread bowl! Just hollow out individual bread rolls and fill them with the hearty stew. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a bright finish. And don't forget to serve on a cozy night while catching up on your favorite TV series! This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing sparkling water or a homemade lemonade to balance the comforting flavors. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Chicken and Dumplings
Preparation Time
Get started with about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare your chicken and vegetables. This is where the fun begins!
Cooking Time
Once you’re ready, the actual cooking takes approximately 40 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this hearty dish comes together.
Total Time
In just 1 hour, you’ll have a delicious, comforting pot of Chicken and Dumplings ready to share with family and friends. It’s the perfect recipe for a cozy weeknight dinner!
For more cooking tips, check out resources like The Spruce Eats to find additional insights on similar comfort food recipes. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to comfort food, Chicken and Dumplings is a hearty choice. Here's a quick look at its nutritional profile:
Calories per serving
Each serving contains approximately 657 calories, making it a filling meal option for busy weeknights.
Protein content
Packed with protein from the chicken, each serving offers about 45 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for muscle recovery and overall health.
Fat and sodium details
The dish has around 30 grams of fat and can contain up to 900 mg of sodium. To manage sodium levels, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and omitting the bouillon cube.
For more detailed nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or the American Heart Association. Enjoy cooking!
FAQs about Chicken and Dumplings
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream in your Chicken and Dumplings recipe, consider using plain Greek yogurt for its similar texture and tangy flavor. Other options include crème fraîche or even a mix of cottage cheese blended until smooth. Each of these choices adds a creamy richness, enhancing the overall taste without compromising the dish.
Can I store leftover Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! Leftover Chicken and Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth to revive the sauce and maintain the dumplings' moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish, but the dumplings may alter in texture once thawed.
How do I make Chicken and Dumplings without biscuits?
If you prefer a homemade dumpling experience, you can easily make your own. Just follow the dumpling instructions in the recipe, using cake flour or all-purpose flour along with baking powder and a mix of wet ingredients – no biscuits needed! This will give you fluffy, delightful dumplings that truly elevate your Chicken and Dumplings.
Conclusion on Chicken and Dumplings
In summary, Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether you prefer homemade dumplings or quick refrigerated options, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy cooking and savoring this timeless classic with your family! For more recipes, check out my other comfort food favorites!
Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- 4 ½-quart soup pot
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs bone-in skinless chicken breast or thighs see notes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Soup Base
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 2 sticks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce I use Franks hot sauce
- ⅓ cup flour
- 4 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cube chicken bouillon optional
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- ¾ cup frozen peas
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground sage
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
Dumplings
- 2 cups cake flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- ¾ cup cold sour cream
- ¼ cup cold milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Sear the chicken
- Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a 4 ½-quart soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes per side, until a little bit of a brown color has developed. The middle will still be uncooked. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces. (Discard the bones.)
Make the Soup
- Combine the seasonings and set aside.
- Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat and use a silicone spatula to 'clean' the bottom of the pot. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the flour and toss to coat. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring continuously. Scrape up any remnants from the bottom of the pot as you do so.
- Add the half and half in the same manner. Add the chicken bouillon, if using.
- Add frozen peas. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer, uncovered, while you make the dumplings.
Make the Dumplings
- Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar in a medium bowl.
- Add the milk, sour cream, and melted butter. Use a folding motion to combine and form a dough, but don't overmix or they will be dense.
- Add the chicken back to the soup along with any juices from the plate. Stir to combine and reduce heat to low. If using leftover chicken, add it now.
- Use a small cookie scoop and carefully place the dumplings over the soup in an even layer. Spoon a little liquid over each one.
- Cover tightly and increase heat slightly to bring it to a gentle simmer. Set a timer for 15 minutes, don't lift the lid during this time, the dumplings need to steam.
- Open the lid and insert a toothpick into the middle of a dumpling to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, it's ready. If not, cover and simmer for a few more minutes.
- Once the middle is set, garnish with parsley and serve!
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