Hearty Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Welcome to your go-to guide for creating a warm and comforting bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings. This classic dish is a favorite for many, and with this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike. In just a few steps, you’ll have a pot full of savory chicken, tender vegetables, and fluffy dumplings that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add more oil if necessary, and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until the onion is translucent and the vegetables are beginning to soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. In the meantime, make the dumpling dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk and melted butter. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
5. Once the soup is simmering, drop tablespoon-sized dollops of dumpling dough into the pot. Cover and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes or until they are puffed up and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. If desired, stir in fresh thyme leaves for additional flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, spooning the chicken, vegetables, and one or two dumplings into each bowl.

Conclusion:

This homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is both simple to make and fulfilling to eat. It’s the perfect dish to serve on a cold evening when you’re craving something hearty and comforting. Enjoy your meal alongside a crisp salad or your favorite vegetable side for a complete dining experience.

Remember, this dish is all about personal preference, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste. Happy cooking!