Chicken and Dumplings Creamy Comfort
Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Enjoy a bowl of heartwarming Chicken and Dumplings Creamy Comfort that brings together tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth.
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe combines the warmth of homemade comfort food with the ease of a simple cooking process. Perfect for a family dinner or when you're feeling under the weather, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Hearty chicken and fluffy dumplings in every bite
- Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings
A Comforting Classic
Chicken and dumplings is a timeless dish that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. This creamy version elevates the classic recipe by incorporating tender chicken pieces and soft, fluffy dumplings that soak up the delicious broth. It's the kind of meal that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Each bite is filled with hearty flavors, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a family gathering or just looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening, Chicken and Dumplings Creamy Comfort fits the bill perfectly. Its rich, creamy broth combined with the warmth of chicken and vegetables creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Additionally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily adapt it to include seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs, making it a dish you can enjoy year-round. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Tips for Success
To ensure your dumplings turn out light and fluffy, be careful not to overmix the dough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed, as overworking the dough can lead to dense dumplings. Remember, the key is to keep things simple and allow the dumplings to rise while cooking in the broth.
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in butter before adding them to the broth. This step can enhance the overall taste of the dish, creating a more aromatic and flavorful base for your chicken and dumplings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Combine these ingredients to create a deliciously creamy dish.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken and Broth
In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Make the Dumplings
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Add parsley for flavor.
Cook the Dumplings
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the pot to prevent the dumplings from becoming too dense. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
If you plan to freeze the dish, it’s best to do so before adding the dumplings. The dumplings may become mushy when frozen and reheated. Instead, store the chicken and broth mixture separately, and prepare fresh dumplings when you're ready to enjoy it again.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken and Dumplings Creamy Comfort with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, while the salad adds a fresh contrast to the creamy dish.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional chopped parsley or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper over the top just before serving. This will not only enhance the dish's appearance but also add a pop of flavor that elevates each bite.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of vegetables in your chicken and dumplings. Peas, green beans, or even corn can add vibrant color and nutrition to the dish. You can also try using herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour for the dumplings or substituting some of the chicken for beans or lentils, creating a vegetarian option that is still hearty and satisfying. Enjoy the process of making this dish your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time until it's fully cooked.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add vegetables to the dumplings?
Yes, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables to the dumpling mixture for extra nutrition.
Chicken and Dumplings Creamy Comfort
Enjoy a bowl of heartwarming Chicken and Dumplings Creamy Comfort that brings together tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Add parsley for flavor.
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g