Comforting Homemade Chicken and Dumplings: A Soul-Warming Delight for Any Occasion
Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of our Homemade Chicken and Dumplings, a culinary masterpiece that brings together tender shredded chicken, flavorful vegetables, and delectable dumplings in a rich, savory broth. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that promises to soothe your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Join us on a journey to discover the essence of home-cooked goodness with every spoonful.
In our cozy household, Homemade Chicken and Dumplings has become a culinary legend. Picture this: a cold winter evening, the aroma of simmering soup filling the kitchen, and the laughter of loved ones echoing in the background. This recipe has been a constant source of joy, creating cherished memories around the dining table. The first time my husband tasted these dumplings, he declared them a game-changer, and ever since, it’s been a family favorite that never fails to bring smiles and warmth to our home.
Why This Recipe Name
- Comfort in Every Bite: Our dumplings are crafted to perfection, providing a delightful combination of pillowy softness and a slight chewiness.
- Hearty and Wholesome: Packed with nutritious ingredients like chicken, carrots, celery, and thyme, this dish is a complete and satisfying meal for the whole family.
- Simplified Elegance: The easy-to-follow instructions ensure that even novice cooks can create a gourmet-worthy dish, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
- Versatile Flavors: The harmonious blend of fresh thyme, black pepper, and a touch of garlic creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate with each spoonful.
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 150g)
- 1 cup matchstick carrots (about 130g)
- 1 cup diced celery (about 120g)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 12 oz (1 can) evaporated milk
- 32 oz (1 quart) chicken stock
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
- Salt, to taste
Homemade Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ cup (6 oz) whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions:
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium-high heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in flour; cook for 1 minute.
- Add evaporated milk and chicken stock; stir quickly to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then add chicken, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Simmer, uncovered, while preparing dumplings.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, pepper, salt, and thyme. Make a well in the center, pour in milk and melted butter, then stir until a dough ball forms.
- Using a medium-sized cookie scoop, drop dumpling dough into the simmering soup, distributing them around the pot.
- Gently press dumplings down, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir soup/dumplings and cut one dumpling in half to check for doneness. If needed, cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting embrace of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings!
Notes: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. For a lighter option, use low-sodium chicken stock and skim evaporated milk. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, reheating gently on the stove.
