A warm bowl of chicken and dumplings is such a comfort food. This classic dish, with its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, is perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly evenings.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy chicken and dumplings recipe will guide you through creating a soul-warming meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Packed with wholesome ingredients and simple techniques, this dish comes together in about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, we’ve included tips to make it even healthier, along with nutritional information and answers to common questions.
See also: Easy Homemade Dumplings Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken and dumplings recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like flour, chicken, and vegetables.
- Quick Prep: Ready in about an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Comforting and Hearty: A warm, filling meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it to your dietary needs or preferences.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a balanced meal.
For those looking to support their wellness goals, consider incorporating supplements like NuviaLab Sugar Control to help maintain stable blood sugar levels while enjoying hearty meals like this one.
Ingredients
To make this easy chicken and dumplings recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. Most are likely already in your kitchen, and any specialty items can be found on Amazon.
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
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See also: Easy Ravioli Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools, all available on Amazon:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup base.
- Cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
- Chef’s knife: For precise cutting.
- Mixing bowl: For preparing the dumpling dough.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the soup and dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If using heavy cream, stir it in now for a richer broth.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Stir in 1 cup milk and 4 tablespoons melted butter until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough into the simmering soup.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
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See also: Easy Naan Bread Recipe
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: Overmixing can make the dumplings dense. Stir just until combined.
- Adjust the Broth Consistency: If you prefer a thicker broth, reduce the amount of chicken broth or add a slurry of flour and water.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate peas or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Support Digestion: For better digestion of hearty meals, consider Probiosin Plus, a probiotic supplement that supports gut health.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
Servings: 6
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Vitamin A: 60% DV
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 12% DV
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For those managing cholesterol, Lipid Control Plus can support healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Dumplings
This dish isn’t just delicious, it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Protein from Chicken: Chicken breasts provide lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Fiber from Vegetables: Carrots and celery add fiber, supporting digestion.
- Energy from Carbohydrates: The dumplings, made with flour, provide a quick source of energy.
- Immune Support: Garlic and onions have immune-boosting properties.
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See also: Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Dumplings are best made fresh, as they can become soggy when frozen.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the soup base ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. Add the dumpling dough in the last 30 minutes and cook on high until done.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken can save time. Add it to the pot after sautéing the vegetables and simmer for 10 minutes before adding dumplings.
3. How do I make the dumplings fluffier?
Ensure your baking powder is fresh, and avoid overmixing the dough. Also, keep the pot covered while the dumplings cook to trap steam.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk and use vegan butter in the dumplings. Skip the heavy cream.
5. How can I reduce the sodium content?
Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
See also: Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Conclusion
This easy chicken and dumplings recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and flavor to any table. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a rich, hearty result, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. Plus, with the added health benefits of nutrient-dense ingredients and the option to pair it with supplements like Keto Actives for weight management, you can enjoy this meal as part of a balanced lifestyle. Try it today and savor the cozy goodness.
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