Comfort in a Bowl: Quick and Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes rival the soul-warming goodness of chicken and dumplings. Imagine tender chunks of chicken simmered in a rich broth, mingling with fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth with each bite. The best part? You can enjoy this comforting meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, butter, poultry seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, parsley, basil, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and add them to the simmering broth.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Make the Dumplings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and milk to form a dough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering broth, making sure to space them out evenly.
- Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, allowing them to heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, substitute some of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Herbaceous Twist: Customize the flavor of your chicken and dumplings by adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage to the broth.
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as diced potatoes, celery, or corn to the broth for added flavor and nutrition.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for the dumplings. Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer broth, and omit the carrots and peas to reduce the carb content.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the carb content by using a lower-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder instead of flour for the dumplings. Opt for unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk, and use low-carb vegetables such as broccoli or cauliflower instead of peas and carrots.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a steaming bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. With its hearty broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, this dish is a comforting hug in a bowl that the whole family will love. So, whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly evening or craving a taste of nostalgia, this quick and easy recipe is sure to hit the spot. Dive in and enjoy the simple pleasure of chicken and dumplings today
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings:
- Consistency is Key: When making the dumpling dough, aim for a consistency that is soft and slightly sticky. This will ensure that the dumplings are light and fluffy once cooked.
- Even Distribution: When dropping the dumpling dough into the simmering broth, try to space them out evenly to ensure even cooking. This will prevent them from sticking together and help them cook through evenly.
- Cover and Cook: Once the dumplings are added to the broth, cover the pot with a lid to trap the steam. This will help the dumplings cook through evenly and become tender.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the dumplings are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, the dumplings are ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes until done.
- Season to Taste: Taste the broth before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Leftover Love: Chicken and dumplings reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Garnish with Freshness: Before serving, add a pop of freshness to your dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Not only does it add a burst of color, but it also adds a hint of freshness to each bite.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly every time, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
Chicken and dumplings is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace that warms the body and soul. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and satisfying flavors, it’s no wonder this classic dish has stood the test of time.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this 30-minute recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting goodness of chicken and dumplings without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, set aside 30 minutes, and treat yourself to a bowl of homemade comfort that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Indulge in the simple pleasure of chicken and dumplings and savor every comforting bite!
