If you're in the mood for a warm, comforting meal that's both easy to prepare and delightful to eat, Chicken Dumplings are the perfect dish. This recipe, with its fluffy dumplings and hearty, flavorful broth, is a true taste of home. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these dumplings are sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
Ingredients for Chicken Dumplings
- For the Chicken Stew:
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 1⁄2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into small chunks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill (optional)
- For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Chicken Dumplings
Prepare the Stew Base
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking until slightly softened.
- Add the flour and stir to create a roux; this will thicken your stew.
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the chicken pieces, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the cream, salt, and pepper. Add fresh herbs if using.
🎯 Note: Keep an eye on the stew to ensure it doesn't become too thick. If it does, simply add a bit more stock or water.
Make the Dumplings
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the milk and melted butter. Mix until you have a sticky dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering stew.
- Cover and let cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. The dumplings will cook by steaming.
🌟 Note: For fluffier dumplings, ensure the lid remains closed during cooking to trap the steam.
Serving Your Chicken Dumplings
Once your dumplings are cooked, gently ladle the stew into bowls, making sure each serving gets some of those fluffy dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley or any herb of your choice. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
| Meal Component | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|
| Chicken Stew (1 serving) | 350 calories |
| Dumplings (2 pieces) | 100 calories |
| Total per serving | 450 calories |
In summary, this easy Chicken Dumplings recipe brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like home in every bite. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and light, fluffy dumplings is a timeless classic that's surprisingly easy to make. Enjoy this meal with loved ones or savor it as a comforting treat for one. This dish is not just food; it's an experience, one that wraps you in the warmth of a cozy kitchen, where memories are made with each bite.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
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Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they can dry out quicker than thighs. Cook them carefully to ensure they remain tender.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
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Substitute the all-purpose flour in both the stew and dumplings with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
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Thin the stew with additional chicken stock or water, stirring well until you reach your desired consistency.
