When you think of comfort food, chicken and dumplings likely come to mind, and you're not alone. This dish can take many forms, each offering a unique twist on the classic recipe. Whether you prefer the ease of a slow cooker or the richness of a Southern-style version, there's a recipe that fits your taste. You might even find a gluten-free option that doesn't sacrifice flavor. So, which version will you choose to enhance your next meal? The answer might surprise you.
Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. This recipe features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a savory broth, accompanied by fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a chilly evening, this dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth, cover, and cook for an additional 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure your dumplings aren't overmixed; they should be fluffy and light.
If you prefer a thicker broth, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the pot before adding the dumplings.
Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
Finally, for an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the broth just before serving for a creamy twist!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Slow cooker chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy tender chicken simmered in a creamy broth, accompanied by fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.
This recipe not only delivers on taste but also allows you to set it and forget it, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Stir gently to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and drop the pieces into the slow cooker, stirring gently to cover the dumplings in the broth.
Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a bay leaf to the slow cooker.
You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference—green beans or peas work well too.
If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the final 15 minutes of cooking.
Finally, don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness!
Southern-Style Chicken and Dumplings
Southern-style chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that embodies the essence of Southern cooking. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings that soak up the delicious juices. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To begin, place the whole chicken in a large pot and cover it with chicken broth. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and keep the broth at a gentle simmer.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Stir in the melted butter and milk until just combined, then drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
When making Southern-style chicken and dumplings, remember that the quality of the broth is key to the dish's flavor. Using homemade chicken broth can enhance the taste considerably.
Additionally, for fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the broth before adding the dumplings. Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste, and enjoy this classic comfort food!
Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
Creamy Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, a rich and creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings. This delightful meal is perfect for chilly evenings or when you're in need of a hearty homemade dish.
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a warm and satisfying dinner that family and friends will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, frozen vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in the melted butter and milk until just combined to form a dough.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering chicken mixture.
Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Finally, stir in the heavy cream and heat through before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in the pot before adding the chicken broth.
You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to customize the taste to your liking.
If you prefer a thicker broth, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes after adding the heavy cream.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to guarantee the dish is perfectly seasoned.
Enjoy garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings
Gluten-free chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of the beloved comfort food into a gluten-free version. With tender chunks of chicken simmered in a rich broth, and fluffy dumplings that are made with gluten-free flour, this recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal.
It's easy to prepare and offers warmth and satisfaction that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
In a large pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.
Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks before returning it to the pot. In a separate bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth, cover, and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Extra Tips:
When making gluten-free dumplings, be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to dense dumplings.
For added flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or a splash of lemon juice to the broth. If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup just before adding the dumplings.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, and feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand!