Basic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Chicken and dumplings – the ultimate comfort food! This classic recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for a chilly evening. This guide will walk you through creating a delicious, from-scratch chicken and dumpling recipe that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients. Let's start with the chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Using a whole chicken yields a richer broth. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and less likely to dry out.
- 8 cups water: This creates the base for your flavorful broth.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Complements the onion and carrot beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the flavors of the broth.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle herbal note to the broth.
Next, let's look at the ingredients for the dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our fluffy dumplings.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the dumplings their airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken and Dumplings Perfection
Making the Chicken Broth:
- Place the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and bay leaf in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add the water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken, discarding the skin and bones.
Making the Dumplings:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the milk and melted butter, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Combining and Cooking:
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot of broth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering broth. Don't overcrowd the pot.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings
- For richer broth: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. Roasting the chicken before simmering it will further intensify the flavor.
- Don't overmix the dumplings: Overmixing will result in tough dumplings.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Make it ahead: The chicken broth can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This basic chicken and dumplings recipe is a fantastic starting point. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create your own unique version of this classic comfort food. Enjoy!
