Introduction to Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings hold a special place in the hearts of many, often hailed as a quintessential comfort food. But what exactly makes this delightful dish so beloved? The beauty lies in its rich, savory flavor and heartwarming appeal. With tender pieces of chicken nestled in a creamy broth, accompanied by fluffy dumplings, it offers a taste reminiscent of cozy family gatherings and chilly evenings.
This dish has roots in various cultures, from the Southern United States to European kitchens, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of chicken and dumplings. According to the National Chicken Council, chicken is one of the most popular proteins in American households, making this dish not only delicious but accessible too.
Whether you’re using homemade dumplings or the convenience of refrigerated options, the process of preparing chicken and dumplings invites moments of connection – with family, friends, or even just with yourself in the kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a meal that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfaction to your table. Enjoy every creamy bite as you delve into this wonderfully nostalgic recipe!
Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
When making a hearty bowl of Chicken and Dumplings, it's essential to gather the right ingredients to create that comforting flavor we all love. Here's a breakdown of what you need!
Main Ingredients for the Soup
To start off your soup base, you'll need:
- Olive oil – for sautéing your vegetables and chicken
- Bone-in, skinless chicken
- Salt and pepper – to season
- Butter – for rich flavor
- Onion, carrots, and celery – the classic mirepoix for depth
- Garlic – because more flavor is always better
- Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce – for a hint of zest
- Flour – to thicken the broth
- Chicken broth – the heart of your soup
- Half-and-half – for creamy richness
- Frozen peas – a pop of color and a touch of sweetness
Key Ingredients for the Dumplings
The dumplings are what make this dish extra special! For these fluffy bites, you’ll need:
- Cake flour or all-purpose flour – the base of your dumplings
- Baking powder and baking soda – for leavening
- Salt and garlic powder – for flavor
- Sugar – to balance the savory notes
- Cold sour cream and milk – adding moisture and tang
- Melted butter – for richness
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a pot of comforting Chicken and Dumplings that everyone will adore. Ready to cook? Let’s dive in!
Preparing Chicken and Dumplings
Making Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful culinary journey that you'll cherish. This comforting dish warms not just the belly but the soul—with every step brimming with flavor. Let’s break it down into simple, manageable steps.
Sear the Chicken
To kick things off, searing your chicken is a fabulous way to enhance depth in flavor. Season each side of your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and then heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a 4 ½-quart soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken and let it sizzle for about three minutes on each side. You're looking for a lovely golden-brown color. Afterward, remove the chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and tender.
Make the Flavorful Soup Base
Next, it's time to build your robust soup base that’s going to cradle those fluffy dumplings beautifully. Start by melting five tablespoons of butter in the same pot. As it starts to foam, toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery, commonly known as the “mirepoix.” After about five minutes, add minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings (think herbs like basil and thyme) for an aromatic punch. To thicken the broth, sprinkle in flour and cook for another two minutes. Gradually stir in 4 ½ cups of chicken broth and 1 ½ cups of half-and-half, scraping up any goodies stuck to the pot for maximum flavor.
Prepare the Dumpling Dough
While your soup simmers, it’s dumpling time! In a separate bowl, mix two cups of cake flour (or all-purpose flour), baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar. Once blended, integrate cold sour cream and milk along with melted butter. The key here is to combine gently; overmixing will lead to dense dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones.
Combine Chicken and Soup, Add Dumplings
After the soup has simmered and those flavors have melded, stir your chopped chicken back in. Use a small cookie scoop to evenly distribute dollops of dumpling dough over the surface of your bubbling soup. Do not skip this step of spooning a bit of soup over each dumpling; it ensures they cook perfectly.
Cook the Dumplings to Perfection
Finally, cover the pot tightly and raise the heat just a bit to bring it to a gentle simmer. Set a timer for 15 minutes—resist the urge to lift the lid! This is where the magic happens, and those dumplings steam into fluffy perfection. When the timer goes off, insert a toothpick into a dumpling; it should come out clean. If not, give them a few more minutes. Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and dig in!
For more inspiration, consider checking out similar recipes on food blogs like The Kitchn or Bon Appétit. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these Chicken and Dumplings!
Variations on Chicken and Dumplings
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings
If you’re looking to elevate traditional chicken and dumplings, consider adding a rich, earthy element with mushrooms. Sauté your favorite mushrooms—like cremini or shiitake—along with the aromatics for a wonderful depth of flavor. Incorporate a splash of heavy cream for extra creaminess in the broth, giving the dish a luxurious texture that’s irresistible.
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Dumplings
For those who crave a kick, try a spicy Cajun twist on your chicken and dumplings. Season your chicken with Cajun spice and add bell peppers and andouille sausage to the pot for a delightful fusion. A drizzle of hot sauce brings it all together, creating a comforting yet fiery meal.
Ready to explore these variations? They’ll take your classic recipe to new heights! For more variations, you might also enjoy checking out Food Network’s different takes on this timeless dish!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken and Dumplings
Enhancing Flavors
To elevate your Chicken and Dumplings, don’t skip the searing step for the chicken—it builds a rich, flavorful base. Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which infuse the dish with aromatic goodness. A splash of lemon juice or fresh parsley right before serving can also brighten the overall flavor.
Tips for Perfect Dumplings
For fluffy dumplings, ensure that you gently fold the dough instead of overmixing, as this keeps them light and airy. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, adding a hint of sugar can enhance the flavor profile beautifully. Remember, keeping the lid on while cooking is key for that perfect steam—no peeking!
For more tips on chicken preparation, check out resources from The Chicken Council. Happy cooking!
Serving suggestions for Chicken and Dumplings
Pairing with Side Dishes
To elevate your Chicken and Dumplings experience, consider side dishes that complement its creamy goodness. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. For something heartier, steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add both color and texture to your plate. If you're craving comfort, serve with buttery cornbread or some crusty bread for dipping.
Ideal Serving Bowls and Garnishes
For an inviting presentation, use deep, wide bowls that allow the Chicken and Dumplings to shine. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a vibrant touch, while a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavors. Additionally, consider adding a side of homemade hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick! Serve it all with a warm smile, and watch your family dig in.
For more ideas, check out these serving tips and enhance your meal even more!
Time Breakdown for Chicken and Dumplings
Preparation time
Get started in just 20 minutes! This includes gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken and veggies, setting you up for success in the kitchen.
Cooking time
Once prepped, it takes about 40 minutes to cook everything to perfection, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Total time
In just 1 hour, you’ll have a warm, hearty dish of Chicken and Dumplings ready to savor with your family. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner you can easily whip up!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken and Dumplings
Calories
A serving of this comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe contains approximately 657 calories. It’s a hearty dish that's perfect for cozy dinners and keeps you satiated without feeling weighed down.
Protein
This delicious meal packs a protein punch, offering around 42 grams per serving. The combination of chicken and creamy dumplings not only satisfies your taste buds but also helps maintain muscle mass, making it a fantastic choice for balanced nutrition.
Sodium
Be cautious if you're monitoring your sodium intake, as this recipe can contain around 1,250 mg of sodium per serving, depending on the chicken broth and seasonings used. Opt for unsalted broth or make your own to better manage sodium levels while enjoying this classic dish.
If you want more insights into the nutritional value of chicken and its benefits, check out this informative article from the USDA here.
FAQs about Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time. Simply shred or dice your cooked chicken and add it at the point when the dumplings are ready to be placed on the soup. This method ensures your meal is quick, yet still comforting and delicious.
How do I store leftover chicken and dumplings?
To keep your leftover chicken and dumplings fresh, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be mindful that the dumplings may soften a bit—still tasty, just a different texture!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! To adapt your chicken and dumplings to a dairy-free version, substitute the half-and-half with a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream or an almond-based cream. Additionally, use a dairy-free milk for the dumplings and ensure your butter is swapped for a dairy-free version. Enjoy your comfy bowl of goodness!
For more tips, check out this guide on chicken alternatives or visit Dairy-Free Recipes for inspiration!
Conclusion on Chicken and Dumplings
Why Chicken and Dumplings is Perfect for Any Weeknight
In conclusion, Chicken and Dumplings offers a delightful blend of warmth and comfort, making it the ideal weeknight meal. With its satisfying flavors and simple preparation, it not only nourishes the body but also creates moments of connection around the dinner table. It’s a classic that never fails to please!
Don't forget to explore more delicious comfort food options on Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- 4 ½-quart soup pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast or thighs see notes
- Salt/Pepper to taste
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 2 sticks celery diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce I use Franks hot sauce
- ⅓ cup flour
- 4 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cube chicken bouillon optional
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- ¾ cup frozen peas
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground sage
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
Dumplings
- 2 cups cake flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- ¾ cup cold sour cream
- ¼ cup cold milk
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
Sear the chicken
- Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a 4 ½-quart soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes per side, until a little bit of a brown color has developed. The middle will still be uncooked. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces. (Discard the bones.)
Make the Soup
- Combine the seasonings and set aside.
- Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat and use a silicone spatula to 'clean' the bottom of the pot.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the flour and toss to coat. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring continuously. Scrape up any remnants from the bottom of the pot as you do so.
- Add the half and half in the same manner.
- Add the chicken bouillon, if using.
- Add frozen peas. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer, uncovered, while you make the dumplings.
Make the Dumplings
- Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar in a medium bowl.
- Add the milk, sour cream, and melted butter. Use a folding motion to combine and form a dough, but don’t overmix or they will be dense.
- Add the chicken back to the soup along with any juices from the plate. Stir to combine and reduce heat to low. If using leftover chicken, add it now.
- Use a small cookie scoop and carefully place the dumplings over the soup in an even layer. Spoon a little liquid over each one.
- Cover tightly and increase heat slightly to bring it to a gentle simmer. Set a timer for 15 minutes, don’t lift the lid during this time, the dumplings need to steam.
- Open the lid and insert a toothpick into the middle of a dumpling to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not, cover and simmer for a few more minutes.
- Once the middle is set, garnish with parsley and serve!
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