The Best Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Indulge in the warm embrace of homemade chicken and dumplings, a classic dish that brings comfort to any table. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings that are sure to please everyone. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this dish will fill your home with delightful aromas and create lasting memories.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g fat, 30g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, broth, onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken, let it cool, and shred the meat.
4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Add milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, stirring until combined.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth.
8. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
9. Check if dumplings are cooked through and serve hot.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the whole chicken with chicken thighs or breasts for a leaner option. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.

Serving and Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the dumplings may lose their texture when reheated.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
• Not letting the dumplings steam properly can result in dense dumplings.
• Adding too much liquid can make the broth too thin.
• Not seasoning well enough can lead to bland flavors.
• Skipping the resting time for the dumplings can affect their fluffiness.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust the thickness of the broth by adding more or less liquid.
• Experiment with spices like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
• Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best dumpling rise.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to extend the cooking time until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.

How do I make my dumplings fluffier?

To make fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter and allow them to steam undisturbed during cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and chicken ahead of time. Just add the dumplings right before serving for the best texture.

What can I do with leftover dumplings?

Leftover dumplings can be reheated in the broth or served with a sauce for a different meal.

Is there a vegetarian version of chicken and dumplings?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this best chicken and dumplings recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s a dish that offers both comfort and nostalgia. Enjoy every bite of this traditional favorite!

The Best Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a rich broth with fluffy dumplings, perfect for family gatherings.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chicken, dumplings, comfort food, family recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken about 4 lbs
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 carrots sliced
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter melted

Instructions

• Combine the chicken, broth, onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
• Remove the chicken, let it cool, and shred the meat.
• Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
• Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Add milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, stirring until combined.
• Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth.
• Cover and cook for another 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
• Check if dumplings are cooked through and serve hot.
• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 3g