Description
This version of Chicken and Dumplings is a flavor-packed comfort meal that combines golden, pan-seared dumplings with a savory herb-infused broth. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s both healthy and hearty, perfect for chilly weather or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden-brown, about 5-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté carrots, celery, and onion for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 60 seconds more.
- Create the Base: Pour in chicken broth, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and return chicken to the pot.
- Mix the Dumplings: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in parsley and chives. Add milk and melted butter, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
- Simmer to Perfection: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the simmering liquid. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove lid and gently stir in heavy cream. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Notes
Do not over-mix the dumpling dough to ensure they stay light and fluffy. Resist the urge to peek or stir the dumplings while they are steaming. For extra color, lightly pan-fry the dumplings in butter before adding them to the soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg