Easy Chicken And Dumplings

 Chicken and dumplings is a timeless comfort food that has been warming hearts and homes for generations. This hearty dish combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a savory broth, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or preparing a special meal for loved ones, chicken and dumplings is sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (preferably from a rotisserie chicken)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg

Method

1. Prepare the Chicken and Broth:

   1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   2. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
   3. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking until they begin to soften.
   4. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
   5. Add the cooked chicken, frozen peas, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
   6. Let the mixture simmer while you prepare the dumplings.

2. Make the Dumplings:

   1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   2. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Stir in the milk and egg until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
   4. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering chicken mixture. The dumplings will expand as they cook.

3. Cook the Dumplings:

   1. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   2. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

   1. Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.

Variations & Tips

• For a Creamier Broth: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of a kick.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or dill can be used instead of dried thyme and parsley for a different flavor profile.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: The chicken and dumplings can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the dumplings.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken and dumplings is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition and a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings come together to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, chicken and dumplings is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.