Chicken and dumplings is one of those classic comfort foods that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. This dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, creating a deliciously cozy meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of preparing this delightful dish.
Ingredients
To make a scrumptious pot of chicken and dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), trimmed and cut into large pieces
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or 2 tbsp cornstarch for gluten-free
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick) OR 8 refrigerated biscuit dough pieces OR dumpling batter made from:
- 1 and 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp cold butter
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. If you’re using olive oil, heat it in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Quickly brown the chicken pieces for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. This step enhances the flavor but isn’t necessary for slow cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
After browning the chicken, place it into your slow cooker along with the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
Step 3: Combine the Liquids
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, flour or cornstarch, and thyme. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Mixture
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken becomes tender and easily pulls apart.
Step 5: Add Cream and Dumplings
Towards the end of the cooking time, stir in the heavy cream for richness.
For the dumplings, if you are using a biscuit mix, simply drop spoonfuls on top of the chicken mixture. If you are making your own dumpling batter, mix the ingredients until well combined, then drop spoonfuls over the chicken and vegetables.
Step 6: Cook the Dumplings
Cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 to 45 minutes on low until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Add a final touch by adjusting the salt and pepper according to taste. Garnish with parsley or chives before serving hot.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Use Your Favorite Vegetables: Feel free to add or replace vegetables according to your preferences. Peas, corn, or even potatoes work well in this recipe.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce for some heat.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to utilize leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey.
- Cooking Method: You can also make this dish in a Dutch oven on the stove for a quicker version.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and dumplings is a meal on its own, but you might want to serve it with:
- A fresh green salad
- Crusty bread or rolls
- Steamed vegetables for added nutrition
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings families together. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite in many households. With this easy recipe and simple steps, you can create a homemade version that rivals any restaurant.
FAQs
What should I serve with chicken and dumplings?
A simple green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables pair well with chicken and dumplings.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure it’s cooked through before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze chicken and dumplings. However, the dumplings may become slightly softer upon reheating.
This recipe promises a warm, filling dish that will draw your family to the dinner table again and again. Enjoy your homemade chicken and dumplings!
Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- If using olive oil, heat it in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly brown the chicken pieces for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side.
- Place the browned chicken in a slow cooker along with the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, flour or cornstarch, and thyme. Pour mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Towards the end of cooking, stir in the heavy cream for richness.
- If using a biscuit mix for the dumplings, drop spoonfuls on top of the chicken mixture. For homemade dumplings, mix the ingredients until well combined, then drop spoonfuls over the mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 to 45 minutes on low until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or chives before serving hot.
