Chicken and Dumplings Comfort

There is something deeply soothing about a pot of chicken and dumplings simmering away on the stove The broth becomes rich and aromatic the dumplings puff up like little clouds and the whole house starts to feel warmer and more inviting This recipe captures all the nostalgia of classic chicken and dumplings with a streamlined set of ingredients perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends alike

When I first cooked this after a long day my family could not stop ladling out seconds The cozy aroma alone became an instant mood booster

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken: Adds lean protein and hearty texture Look for rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken for the best flavor
• Chicken broth: Deepens the stew with savory notes Choose low sodium for better control over seasoning
• Flour: Forms the base of your dumplings Use all purpose flour and check for freshness Run your fingers through it to ensure it is not clumpy or stale
• Baking powder: Gives your dumplings their irresistible fluffiness Double check that the can is still active for the lift you want
• Milk: Binds your dumpling dough and adds tenderness Whole milk is ideal for richness but any milk works in a pinch
• Carrots: Provide sweetness and color Try to pick firm bright orange carrots for the best results
• Onion: Brings depth and sweetness to the stew Choose onions that are heavy for their size with no soft spots

Instructions

Simmer the Stew:

Pour chicken broth into a large heavy pot and set over medium heat Add in diced onion and carrots along with cooked chicken Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer so that the carrots soften and the chicken becomes more flavorful This usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes Keep an eye out and stir occasionally to prevent sticking

Make the Dumpling Dough:

In a medium bowl whisk together the flour and baking powder so the leavening is evenly distributed Stir in milk little by little until a soft slightly sticky dough forms The dough should hold together but still feel light Do not overmix as this can make dumplings tough

Shape and Drop Dumplings:

Use a spoon to scoop up small portions of dough about the size of a walnut Drop each gently into the simmering liquid One trick I use is to dampen the spoon slightly so the dough slides right off This prevents the dough from sticking and keeps the dumplings round

Simmer Until Fluffy:

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight fitting lid Let the dumplings cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes The steam is what makes them puff up so resist lifting the lid too often When finished the dumplings will feel firm to the touch and not doughy in the center

Finish and Serve:

Once the dumplings are set and the vegetables tender give the stew a gentle stir Taste and add salt or pepper if needed Serve the chicken and dumplings piping hot right out of the pot

Save to Pinterest

One of my favorite details in this recipe is the dumpling dough The first time I made it with my grandmother she showed me how to gently mix so they turned out feather light My family still talks about how those dumplings melt in your mouth

Storage Tips

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers Store in the fridge for up to three days When reheating add a splash of extra broth if it seems thick as dumplings continue to soak up liquid If you prefer to freeze portion the cooled chicken portion without dumplings since dumplings may become mushy after thawing To serve later make a fresh batch of dumplings directly in the stew as you reheat

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap turkey for the chicken if you have leftovers from a holiday dinner For extra flavor try stirring in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley right at the end If you are out of milk you can use unsweetened plain yogurt mixed with a little water in the dumpling dough

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken and dumplings alongside a green salad or simply with steamed peas for extra color For a touch of brightness squeeze in a little lemon juice just before serving It also pairs beautifully with rustic bread to soak up every drop

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken and dumplings has deep roots in American Southern cooking but you will find versions across different cultures For many it is the ultimate symbol of home and hospitality This dish was always something family gathered around in my childhood and it remains a comfort food classic

Seasonal Adaptations

Try adding diced parsnips or sweet potatoes in autumn for a heartier stew Fresh peas or chopped asparagus brighten things up in spring For summer use garden zucchini in place of some carrots for a lighter feel

Success Stories

A neighbor once brought my version of chicken and dumplings to a new mom down the street and got spontaneous tears plus a thank you card Later she shared the recipe with her mother so now three households are hooked

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make this a freezer friendly meal prep the chicken broth carrots onions and chicken together and freeze Once ready to eat bring to a simmer then add freshly mixed dumpling dough This keeps the dumplings fluffy and ensures the taste is as good as made from scratch

Save to Pinterest

In just about an hour you can serve up the ultimate bowl of comfort These chicken and dumplings turn any day into a memory making occasion

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep the dumplings fluffy?

Mix the dough gently and avoid overworking. Drop spoonfuls into simmering, not boiling, stew for best texture.

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly and saves time while adding depth to the dish.

→ What vegetables go well in this dish?

Carrots and onions are classic, but celery, peas, or potatoes can also be added for extra heartiness.

→ How long should I simmer the dumplings?

Let them cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure they are fully cooked and fluffy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken stew in advance and add fresh dumplings before serving for best results.