Super Easy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Create a comforting classic with this Super Easy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a savory broth, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or a quick weeknight meal. Quick to assemble and even quicker to satisfy, it's a delightful way to warm up your kitchen and your heart.
This recipe is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something comforting. With a rich broth and fluffy dumplings, it's a family favorite!
Why You'll Love It
- Quick to assemble
- Comforting and hearty
- Perfect for family dinners
Simple Steps to Success
Preparing homemade chicken and dumplings doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Start by cooking the chicken and letting it shine as the star of your dish. Ensure that it reaches the proper temperature for safety, and then shred it to add that much-needed texture.
Using store-bought chicken broth can greatly simplify preparations, allowing you to focus more on adding your favorite vegetables and seasonings. This is where the magic happens, as the broth combines with the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables to create a savory foundation for your meal.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of chicken and dumplings is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dumplings by incorporating herbs or spices. Adding parsley, thyme, or even a dash of cayenne can elevate the flavor profile while keeping the recipe simple. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or a combination of different vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Consider adding frozen peas or corn to the vegetable blend for added color and nutrition. Mixing in seasonal vegetables can also create variation, giving this comforting dish a refreshing twist each time you make it.
Serving Suggestions
When plating your chicken and dumplings, consider serving it with a light side salad or some crusty bread. This pairing complements the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing element that rounds out the meal. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs on top to enhance both presentation and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Reheat gently on the stove for a satisfying meal that tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. It's a perfect choice for meal prep, offering comfort food to enjoy all week long.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil and add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and shred it.
Prepare the Vegetables
Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the broth and simmer for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Make the Dumplings
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
Combine and Cook
Add the shredded chicken back to the pot, then drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy.
Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley for garnish, if desired.
Getting the Dumplings Just Right
Creating the perfect dumpling is an art form, and it all starts with the right mixture. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough dumplings. When you add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, stir just until combined. The mixture should be slightly lumpy, ensuring that your dumplings will come out fluffy and light.
Drop the dumplings into the simmering broth gently and avoid the temptation to lift the lid too often while they're cooking. Steaming them properly is key to achieving that perfect texture, so give them time to rise and develop their signature fluffiness.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Dumplings
This dish offers not only comfort but also nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Paired with vegetables like carrots and celery, you're adding vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet. The fiber in the veggies aids in digestion, making this meal not only hearty but also wholesome.
Opting for whole grain flour for your dumplings can elevate the health benefits even further, adding more fiber and nutrients. It's an easy swap that helps you maintain a healthier lifestyle without compromising on flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Super Easy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Create a comforting classic with this Super Easy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a savory broth, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or a quick weeknight meal. Quick to assemble and even quicker to satisfy, it's a delightful way to warm up your kitchen and your heart.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil and add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and shred it.
Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the broth and simmer for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
Add the shredded chicken back to the pot, then drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g