Chicken and dumplings—the ultimate comfort food. But the thought of making it from scratch can seem daunting. Not anymore! This recipe breaks down how to make incredibly delicious, melt-in-your-mouth chicken and dumplings with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Get ready to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that'll become a family favorite in no time.
What Makes This Recipe Super Easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing taste. We're using readily available ingredients and streamlining the process to minimize prep time and cooking complexity. Forget fussy techniques – this is all about enjoying the deliciousness of chicken and dumplings without the fuss.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Cook the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Make the Dumplings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the milk, stirring until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Drop the Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve immediately. This dish is even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the pot with the vegetables during the last 10 minutes of simmering. This will save you significant cooking time.
What kind of milk should I use?
Whole milk will create the richest, most tender dumplings. However, you can use 2% or skim milk if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the dumplings might be slightly less tender.
Can I freeze leftover chicken and dumplings?
Yes! Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How can I make this recipe even easier?
For an even quicker meal, use frozen mixed vegetables instead of chopping fresh ones. You can also use biscuit dough as a shortcut instead of making the dumplings from scratch.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add different vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans. Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, sage, or parsley. You could even add a splash of cream or sour cream at the end for extra richness.
Tips for Success
- Don't overmix the dumpling batter: Overmixing will result in tough dumplings.
- Keep the pot covered while the dumplings cook: This helps create steam, which cooks the dumplings evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
This super easy chicken and dumplings recipe is your ticket to a comforting and delicious meal without the hours of prep work. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this classic dish made simple!
