Comforting Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Delight

Recipe By:
Jennifer
Updated:

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking if they can just move in.

This dish is perfect for cozy family gatherings or those unexpected rainy days when all you want to do is curl up with a bowl of comfort. Trust me, every bite promises an explosion of flavors that’ll make you shout, “I need this in my life every day!”

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring even the busiest home cooks can whip it up.
  • The flavor profile balances savory chicken with herbs and spices, creating a delicious harmony.
  • Visually, its warm colors invite you to dive right in for comfort food at its best.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast!

Ingredients for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

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

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for the best flavor; they cook quickly and shred easily.
  • Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to keep control over the saltiness while still packing in that chicken flavor.
  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • Celery: Celery provides crunch and depth; select crisp stalks that snap when bent.
  • Onion: A medium onion adds essential flavor; dice it finely so it blends seamlessly into the broth.

For the Dumplings:

  • All-Purpose Flour: Use good quality flour as the base for your dumplings; this creates that fluffy texture we all crave.
  • Baking Powder: This ingredient gives dumplings their lightness; make sure it’s fresh for maximum puff.
  • Milk: Whole milk works best for richness; you can substitute with buttermilk if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Butter: Melted butter not only adds flavor but also moisture to the dumpling batter.

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

Recipe preparation for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice the onions, chop the carrots and celery into bite-sized pieces, and set aside your chicken breasts.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil or butter. Once hot, toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they soften – about five minutes is usually perfect.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pot with your sautéed veggies. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything (around four cups). Bring it all to a boil then reduce heat and let it simmer for about twenty minutes until your chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Shred and Thicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot. Shred it using two forks or your fingers—be careful! It’s hot! Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with any seasonings you love—salt, pepper, maybe even a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling wild.

Step 5: Make the Dumpling Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, milk, melted butter, and any herbs you’d like (thyme works wonders). Stir until just combined; don’t overmix!

Step 6: Drop In Those Dumplings

Using spoonfuls of batter, drop them gently into your bubbling broth. Cover tightly and let them steam for about fifteen minutes without lifting the lid. This allows them to puff up beautifully!

Transfer to plates and serve steaming hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for that extra touch of elegance. Enjoy each comforting spoonful of homemade goodness!

You Must Know

  • This amazing homemade chicken and dumplings recipe offers warmth and comfort in every bite.
  • It’s perfect for chilly evenings and can be customized based on what you have on hand.
  • The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a family favorite at the dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, creating a golden crust. While that sizzles, chop your veggies and mix the dumpling batter. Once the chicken is cooked, add everything to one pot for maximum flavor fusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even throw in some vegetables like carrots or peas. Spice things up with your favorite herbs or add a splash of hot sauce for an unexpected kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to prevent dryness and warm it gently on the stovetop.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To ensure your homemade chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly, remember these expert tips: Always let the chicken rest after cooking to enhance its juiciness.
  • For fluffier dumplings, don’t overmix; gentle folding works wonders.
  • Lastly, season your broth well; it’s the flavor foundation of your dish!

I remember the first time I made this homemade chicken and dumplings recipe; my family devoured it within minutes! They were practically fighting over who got the last bowl, leaving me both amused and proud of my culinary skills.

FAQs :

What is the best way to store leftover Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?

To store leftover Homemade Chicken and Dumplings, place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. However, freezing may alter the texture of the dumplings slightly. For best results, freeze without the broth and add it back when reheating.

Can I make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare some components of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and prepare the broth a day in advance. However, it’s best to make dumplings fresh before serving to achieve that perfect fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything together for a warm and comforting meal.

What type of chicken is best for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?

For a rich flavor in your Homemade Chicken and Dumplings, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces such as thighs or a whole chicken. These cuts provide more depth to your broth as they simmer. However, if you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts work well too but may require more seasoning for flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in my Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize your Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe based on dietary needs or preferences. Substitute low-fat milk for cream or use gluten-free flour for dumplings. You can also add vegetables like carrots or peas to enhance nutrition and flavor. Adjust spices according to your taste for a personalized dish.

Conclusion for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe :

In conclusion, making a delicious Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is easier than you might think. This comforting dish combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a flavorful broth. Remember to store leftovers properly and consider prepping elements ahead of time for convenience. Feel free to customize ingredients based on your preferences while maintaining that signature comfort food experience. Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends any time!

Print

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Tender chicken simmers in a rich, savory broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing/Steaming
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. 1. Prepare ingredients: Dice the onion and chop the carrots and celery; set aside chicken breasts.
  2. 2. Sauté vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add oil or butter; sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. 3. Cook chicken: Add chicken breasts to the pot with sautéed veggies. Pour in enough broth to cover everything (about 4 cups), bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  4. 4. Shred chicken: Remove cooked chicken from the pot; shred using forks and return to the pot along with seasoning.
  5. 5. Make dumpling batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, milk, and melted butter; mix until just combined.
  6. 6. Drop dumplings: Spoon batter into bubbling broth; cover pot tightly and steam dumplings for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider using bone-in chicken pieces for a richer broth. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas or swapping in turkey for the chicken. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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