Chicken and Dumplings

A traditional comfort food, chicken and dumplings provides a symphony of flavors with its soft dumplings, aromatic veggies, and delicious chicken cooked in a thick broth. Celebrated for its rustic appeal and calming properties, this article will delve into the dish’s warming essence and offer advice on how to make the perfect cozy dinner at home.

Tasting Notes

The combination of succulent chicken, aromatic vegetables, and pillowy dumplings creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The savory broth ties everything together, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add more oil if needed. Sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Make Roux: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Chicken and Peas: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add frozen peas. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Prepare Dumplings: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
7. Drop Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto the simmering stew. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for 15 minutes or until they are cooked through.
8. Serve: Ladle the chicken stew and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

• For fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter. It’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy.
• Add a splash of cream to the broth for extra richness.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering broth.

Variations

• Try using bone-in chicken for added flavor.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
• Experiment with different vegetables such as corn or green beans.

FAQs