Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Stew
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened (5-6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer and cook 10-12 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir in shredded chicken, heavy cream, and peas. Continue to simmer while preparing dumplings.
Step 2: Make the Dumplings
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and parsley (if using). Add milk and melted butter; stir until just combined. The batter will be thick.
Step 3: Drop the Dumplings
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the simmering stew, leaving space between each dumpling.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Cover the pot and cook for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid. Dumplings are done when puffy and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle Chicken and Dumplings into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but you can use leftover cooked chicken or poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the broth.
- Dumplings: For light and fluffy dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter and don’t lift the lid while cooking.
- Vegetables: Add extra vegetables like corn or green beans for added texture and color.
Variations
1. Herb Dumplings
Add 1 teaspoon each of chopped fresh thyme and rosemary to the dumpling batter.
2. Spicy Chicken and Dumplings
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the stew.
3. Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for both the stew and dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad
- Crusty Bread
- Pickles or Relish
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Chicken and Dumplings Ahead of Time?
Yes! The stew can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add freshly made dumplings when serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
Can I Freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
Freeze the stew (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Add freshly made dumplings after reheating.
Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless comfort food. Give this classic recipe a try!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below!
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