Chicken and Dumplings

Introduction
Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy, flavorful dumplings in a rich, creamy broth. This classic dish is a family favorite for cozy evenings and is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike. Perfect for when you want a wholesome, satisfying meal, this recipe brings old-fashioned goodness to the table with a modern touch.

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Why Make This Recipe

A Timeless Comfort Dish
Nothing beats the creamy richness of Chicken and Dumplings. The tender chicken, seasoned broth, and pillowy dumplings make every bite soothing and satisfying.

Perfect for Gatherings
This hearty one-pot meal is ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. It serves multiple people and feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Beginner-Friendly
Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, it’s a no-fail dish.

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Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps sear the chicken for extra flavor. Swap with butter if desired.
• 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs add more flavor, but breasts work well too.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Basic seasoning to enhance flavors.
• 5 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the soup. Substitute with margarine for a lighter version.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Red or white onion can be used.
• 1 cup carrots, diced – Adds natural sweetness.
• 2 sticks celery, diced – A key ingredient for the classic flavor profile.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth to the broth.
• 1 tsp hot sauce – Optional, for a slight kick.
• ⅓ cup flour – Helps thicken the broth.
• 4 ½ cups chicken broth – Use homemade or store-bought.
• 1 chicken bouillon cube (optional) – Intensifies the flavor.
• 1 ½ cups half-and-half – Substitute with heavy cream for a richer soup or milk for a lighter option.
• ¾ cup frozen peas – Can be replaced with fresh peas or omitted if preferred.
• Seasonings: Onion powder, dried basil, parsley, thyme, rosemary, mustard powder, ground sage, black pepper. Adjust to taste.

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups cake flour or all-purpose flour – Cake flour makes fluffier dumplings.
• 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the dumplings rise.
• ½ tsp baking soda – Enhances the dumplings’ texture.
• 1 tsp salt – Balances the flavors.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – Optional, for a savory twist.
• 2 tsp sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness.
• ¾ cup cold sour cream – Greek yogurt works as a substitute.
• ¼ cup cold milk – Any milk, including plant-based, works here.
• 4 tbsp butter, melted – Adds richness to the dumplings.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

• Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a large 4 ½-quart soup pot over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken for 3 minutes on each side. Remove from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.

Tip: Bone-in chicken adds flavor to the broth. If using boneless chicken, monitor cooking time to prevent dryness.

2. Prepare the Soup Base

• Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside.
• Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
• Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and the prepared seasonings. Cook for 1 minute.
• Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
• Gradually add chicken broth in small splashes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Stir in half-and-half and add the chicken bouillon if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add frozen peas and continue to simmer while preparing the dumplings.

Tip: If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen it.

3. Make the Dumplings

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar.
• Add cold sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Gently fold the mixture until it forms a dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the dumplings light.

Tip: Use cold ingredients to ensure the dumplings stay tender and fluffy.

4. Combine and Cook

• Add the diced chicken back into the soup and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low.
• Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop dumpling dough over the soup, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
• Cover the pot tightly, increase the heat slightly, and let the soup gently simmer for 15 minutes.
• Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into a dumpling—it should come out clean.

Tip: Don’t lift the lid during cooking, as steam is essential for fluffy dumplings.

5. Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish!

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How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

• Classic Pairings: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• For a Lighter Meal: Pair with a fresh garden salad.
• Add Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, thyme, or a pinch of paprika for added color and flavor.

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How to Store Chicken and Dumplings

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup without the dumplings for up to 2 months. Prepare fresh dumplings when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture.

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Tips to Make This Recipe

1. Thickening the Broth: For a creamier soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour during the roux-making step.
2. Prevent Soggy Dumplings: Keep the lid on while the dumplings cook to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
3. Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance and refrigerate. Add the dumplings just before serving for freshly cooked results.

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Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for both the soup base and dumplings.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a hint of heat.

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FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes, shred rotisserie chicken and add it to the soup during the final simmer to save time.

2. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of half-and-half.

3. Can I prepare the dumplings in advance?
Dumpling dough is best made fresh, but you can measure out the dry ingredients ahead of time for convenience.

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Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort meal that combines rich, creamy flavors with hearty textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a timeless dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, leaving everyone eager for seconds! Give it a try and enjoy the magic of homemade comfort food.