Introduction
Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Easy Chicken and Dumplings! In this article, we will walk you through a delicious and comforting recipe that is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. This hearty dish has a prep time of 15 minutes, a cook time of 45 minutes, a total time of 1 hour, serves 4 people, and is rated as an easy recipe.
Ingredients
To make this mouth-watering Chicken and Dumplings recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to substitute the vegetables with your favorites, or use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
Step-by-step Instructions
1. Start by cooking the chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer and add the chicken breasts. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
3. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and milk to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering broth mixture.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and the broth has thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Recipe Variations
1. Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a cup of heavy cream to the broth for a richer, creamier version.
2. Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
3. Vegetarian Dumplings: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
Expert Tips & Tricks
1. Use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor.
2. Don’t overmix the dumpling dough to keep them light and fluffy.
3. Add a splash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
4. Let the dumplings simmer without stirring to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later.
Storage & Make-ahead Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To make ahead, prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture and the dumpling dough separately. Combine and cook when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information/Benefits
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a comforting dish that is perfect for cold days or when you need a hearty meal to warm you up.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Enjoy your Chicken and Dumplings with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a cold glass of apple cider for a complete meal experience.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
2. How can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
3. Can I freeze the cooked dish?
4. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
5. Can I add additional herbs and spices for more flavor?
6. How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy?
Conclusion
Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Easy Chicken and Dumplings, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start cooking! Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to save it on Pinterest for later. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dish!
Ultimate Guide to Easy Chicken and Dumplings
A delicious and comforting chicken and dumplings recipe perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. This hearty dish is made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
-
Start by cooking the chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer and add the chicken breasts. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and set aside.
-
In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
-
Add the shredded chicken back to the pot along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
-
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and milk to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering broth mixture.
-
Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and the broth has thickened.
-
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
