Savory Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe

Welcome to a comforting classic that has stood the test of time: Chicken and Dumplings. This soul-warming dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, herb-infused broth to create the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for cozy evenings at home or impressing guests with its flavorful profile, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of protein and carbs in every bite, making it a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and leaves you with leftovers that taste even better the next day.

As the aromas of browning chicken, sautéed vegetables, and simmering broth fill your kitchen, you’ll be transported to a place of warmth and nourishment. The light dumpling batter, dropping into the bubbling broth to cook to perfection, adds a touch of cloud-like fluffiness to this hearty meal. Whether you’re facing a cold winter night or simply craving a taste of home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, offering a comforting and satisfying experience with each spoonful.

From your first bite to the last spoonful of velvety broth, this chicken and dumplings recipe is a labor of love that honors tradition while allowing for personal touches and adaptations. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simmering pot of goodness on your stove, and get ready to savor a meal that not only feeds the body but also warms the heart.

Quick Benefits

• One pot wonder that minimizes cleanup
• Perfect balance of protein and carbs in each bite
• Creates leftovers that taste even better the next day
• Impressive enough for guests but easy enough for weeknights

Why You’ll Love This Savory Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe Recipe

• Hearty Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy evenings at home, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience in every bite.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimizes cleanup, making it an easy and convenient meal option.
• Leftovers Get Better with Time: Tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.
• Impressively Delicious: Suitable for guests but easy enough for weeknights, striking a perfect balance.
• Customizable: You can switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season, adding a personal touch.
• Versatile Ingredients: Common kitchen staples like all-purpose flour, chicken, and mirepoix create a robust flavor profile.
• Generational Recipe: Brings back nostalgic memories and family traditions, making it a heartwarming meal.
• Secrets to Success: Tips and tricks passed down through generations ensure the best results every time.
• Flavorful Broth: White wine adds complexity and brightness, creating a rich and aromatic base.
• Fluffy Dumplings: Baking powder ensures light, cloud-like dumplings that remain tender.
• Velvety Finish: Heavy cream transforms the broth into a luxurious texture, elevating the dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Develops flavors overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
• Adaptable Recipe: Offers variations for dietary restrictions and ingredient substitutions, ensuring it suits everyone’s needs.
• Complete Meal: A well-balanced dish with protein and carbs, perfect on its own or paired with a light salad.
• Timeless Classic: A staple recipe you’ll love for years to come, blending comfort and elegance effortlessly.

Ingredients for Savory Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe

Soup Base

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, divided
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 broiler/fryer chicken (about 3 pounds), cut up
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 5 whole peppercorns
• 1/2 cup white wine or apple cider
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Dumplings

• 1-1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup 2% milk

Final Touch

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
• Additional salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley

Pro Tips for Savory Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For tender dumplings, be mindful not to overmix the batter. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined before dropping spoonfuls into the simmering broth. Cover the pot tightly to allow the dumplings to steam evenly and cook to fluffy perfection.

Pro Tip 2: To enhance the flavor profile, consider toasting the whole peppercorns in a dry pan before adding them to the broth. This step will intensify their aroma and add a subtle depth to the overall dish. Additionally, using kitchen shears to cut the raw chicken makes the process cleaner and easier compared to using a knife.

Pro Tip 3: Create a well-rounded meal by serving a light green salad with a vinaigrette alongside the chicken and dumplings. If you prefer a heartier option, pair the dish with a crusty sourdough bread to soak up the velvety broth. For a seasonal touch, try roasted brussels sprouts with a hint of maple syrup as a delightful side dish.

How to Make Savory Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine 1/2 cup flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. Coat chicken in the mixture, shaking off excess. Brown chicken in batches on all sides in oil heated in a 6-quart stockpot over medium-high heat, then remove from pan.

Step 2: Step 02

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook and stir for 6-8 minutes until onion is tender. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in 1/4 cup flour until well combined.

Step 3: Step 03

Slowly pour in chicken stock while stirring, then mix in wine, sugar, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Add chicken back to pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Step 04

Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, mix milk and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just moistened. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Step 05

Take the chicken out of the pot and let it cool. Remove bay leaves and skim off any fat from the soup. Discard the chicken skin and bones, then shred the meat into coarse pieces (about 1-1/2 inches) and add it back to the soup.

Step 6: Step 06

Simmer the soup, then gently drop dumplings into the pot. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid until dumplings are cooked through.

Step 7: Step 07

Mix in heavy cream, parsley, and thyme. Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed your comforting chicken and dumplings, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their flavors and textures. Transfer the dish into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Chicken and dumplings can be kept for up to 3 days. As the dumplings may absorb more broth over time, you may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency. It is recommended to reheat the dish gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to preserve the tenderness of the dumplings, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without breaking up the dumplings.

If you find yourself with leftover chicken and dumplings and want to refresh the dish for future meals, know that this recipe is a great make-ahead option. The flavors in this dish tend to develop and intensify overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Feel free to prepare the chicken and broth ahead of time and store them separately from the uncooked dumplings. When you are ready to enjoy the dish again, simply add the dumplings and cook them as instructed. This versatile recipe allows for easy storage and reheating, ensuring you can savor the comforting flavors of chicken and dumplings whenever you desire.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Chicken and Dumplings recipe, there are a few ingredient substitutions you can make based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with apple cider or additional chicken stock for a flavorful alternative that complements the dish. This swap will still provide a balanced acidity and depth of flavor to the broth without the use of alcohol.

Another versatile substitution is for the chicken cut. While the recipe calls for a whole broiler/fryer chicken, you can easily use boneless chicken thighs instead for a quicker cooking time and added tenderness. This swap will still impart a rich chicken flavor to the dish, making it a convenient alternative while maintaining the heartiness of the meal. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for the chicken thighs to ensure they are cooked through.

Lastly, if you are looking to make a dairy-free version of this comforting meal, you can replace the heavy whipping cream with coconut milk. This substitution will provide a creamy texture to the broth without the use of dairy, offering a subtle yet delicious twist on the classic recipe. The coconut milk will infuse a unique flavor profile while still maintaining the velvety richness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your comforting chicken and dumplings in wide shallow bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme for a pop of color and added herbaceous notes. Pair this soul-warming dish with a side of crusty sourdough bread to sop up every last drop of the velvety broth, and complement it with a light green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the main course.

For a cozy and intimate dining experience, present individual portions of chicken and dumplings in rustic clay pots or mason jars, topped with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil. This creative serving suggestion adds a charming touch to your meal and allows guests to enjoy their own personal pot of comfort. Accompany this dish with a glass of chilled white wine or apple cider to enhance the flavors and create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the beauty of homemade comfort food.

FAQs for Savory Homemade Chicken Dumplings Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken for this recipe?

Yes, chicken thighs work well due to their rich flavor and tenderness. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I substitute something else for white wine in this recipe?

Apple cider or additional chicken stock are great substitutes for white wine in this recipe.

How should I store and reheat leftovers of chicken and dumplings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I prepare the chicken and broth in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and broth in advance. Store them separately from the uncooked dumplings, and add the dumplings just before serving.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, chicken and dumplings is a recipe that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to the table. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that is both satisfying and soul-nourishing. This classic comfort food is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite seasonal ingredients and personal touches.

As you embark on your chicken and dumplings cooking adventure, remember that the beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and heartiness. Let the flavors meld together, savor each spoonful, and share this comforting meal with your loved ones. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or served to guests during a special gathering, chicken and dumplings will always hold a special place in your recipe repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that will warm both body and soul. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delicious aroma of homemade chicken and dumplings!