Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Sometimes here at 99 easyrecipes, we try to create innovative new takes on dishes like mashups of two favorites or turning a favorite sandwich into a soup. But sometimes, a classic is really best left in its original form, like these Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is straightforward comfort food – no tricks, no gimmicks, just homey stick-to-your-ribs fare that will never go out of style. After all, there’s nothing better than a classic done right and this recipe most definitely is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. The chicken is cooked to perfection in the broth, making it tender and flavorful. Plus, the dumplings are soft and fluffy, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sauce. It’s a timeless dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when you need a comforting meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Medium mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts and/or thighs, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5-6 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
For the Dumplings:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, season chicken with salt and pepper and toss with 1/2 cup flour.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until outsides are browned, stirring occasionally, 3-5 minutes. Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining olive oil and butter. Add carrots, celery, and onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in broth, thyme, bay leaves, and chicken. Bring to a simmer, then stir in cream and peas and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings: In a medium bowl, stir together the 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Add buttermilk and eggs and stir until no raw flour remains.
- Drop dough by tablespoons into simmering broth, giving them some space to puff up.
- Cover, reduce heat, and let simmer gently until dumplings are puffy and chicken has cooked through, about 15 minutes. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure not to overcrowd the dumplings in the pot. This will ensure they cook evenly and fluff up nicely. Also, taste the broth before adding salt, as the chicken broth can sometimes be quite salty on its own.
Additional Tips and Variations
Try adding some fresh herbs like parsley or dill at the end for an extra burst of flavor. You can also substitute turkey for chicken if you have leftovers from a holiday meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s one designed for baking.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if needed.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a true classic that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. I invite you to try it out and experience the joy of homemade comfort food. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you might have tried. Happy cooking!