Step into the realm of homestyle comfort with our cherished recipe for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings. This timeless classic is a warm embrace on a cold day, a symphony of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the steps to create a pot of pure comfort that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Stew:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken Stew:
- Sear the Chicken: In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sear them until golden brown on all sides. Remove chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender and aromatic.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Return the seared chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken broth, add bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat, and discard bones. Return shredded chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer while preparing the dumplings.
Making the Dumplings:
- Prepare Dumpling Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour in melted butter and milk, stirring until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Form Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering chicken stew. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer doughy in the center.
- Serve Warm: Ladle a generous portion of chicken stew and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve piping hot.
Cook Notes:
- If the stew becomes too thick, you can add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed and remove bay leaves before serving.
Variations:
1. Herbed Elegance: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dumpling dough or sprinkling them on top before serving.
2. Veggie Boost: Increase the vegetable medley by adding peas, corn, or green beans to the stew for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
3. Creamy Dream: For a richer version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream into the chicken stew just before serving.
Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb Version:
For the Chicken Stew:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken.
- Replace carrots with lower-carb vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.
For the Dumplings:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour.
- Use a low-carb milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk.
- Replace the baking powder with a keto-friendly alternative.
A Potful of Homey Bliss
In conclusion, Homemade Chicken and Dumplings are more than a meal; they are a comforting embrace that transcends generations. The tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft dumplings create a harmony of flavors that warms the soul. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or shared with loved ones, this classic dish brings the joy of homestyle cooking to your table. So, gather your ingredients, savor the aroma as it simmers on the stove, and indulge in the heartwarming bliss of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings.
