Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
A heartwarming dish featuring tender chicken, rich broth, and fluffy dumplings, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs Juicy and tender for maximum flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth Essential for the comforting base.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced For sweetness and color.
- 1 cup celery, diced Adds freshness and crunch.
- 1 medium onion, diced The aromatic backbone of the dish.
Dumpling Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Can replace with whole wheat for a healthier option.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder For fluffiness in dumplings.
- ½ teaspoon salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
- ½ cup milk Creates a creamy texture.
- ½ cup butter Used for sautéing.
Optional Ingredients
- to taste fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) For garnish and added freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots, sauté for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Add chicken thighs and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
- Remove cooked chicken, let it cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot.
- Bring broth to a gentle simmer. Drop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling batter into the broth. They will puff up while cooking.
- Cover the pot and let dumplings steam for 10-12 minutes. Do not lift the lid while they cook.
- Serve warm in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze broth and chicken separately as dumplings may not freeze well.