Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens, offering warmth and solace during life’s ups and downs. Among the many beloved comfort foods, chicken and dumplings stand out as a quintessential dish, rich in flavor and nostalgia. This dish has been passed down through generations, often associated with family gatherings, cozy evenings, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Whether you’re battling a chilly day or simply craving a hearty meal, chicken and dumplings deliver unmatched satisfaction.

Discover the heartwarming joy of homemade chicken and dumplings with this cozy comfort recipe. Perfect for chilly days or family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy dumplings for a satisfying meal. Learn about the essential ingredients and step-by-step cooking process to create a delicious stew that warms the soul. Enjoy with fresh herbs and crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience that brings loved ones together.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced finely

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds

2 celery stalks, chopped into small pieces

4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)

For the Dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Simmer the Stew: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine harmoniously. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.

Prepare the Dumplings: While the stew simmers, make the dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the milk and melted butter. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix—the dough should be thick and able to hold its shape when dropped.

Cook the Dumplings: Once the stew is simmering and the chicken is cooked through, use a spoon to drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough on top of the bubbling stew. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes, or until they are puffed, firm to the touch, and cooked through.

Serve: After the dumplings are done, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot in deep bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an appealing pop of color.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings