Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken

1. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and add the bay leaf.
2. Bring to a simmer, then add the shredded chicken.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the dumplings.

Step 3: Make the Dumplings

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, thyme (if using), and pepper.
2. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the milk until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

1. Bring the chicken stew to a gentle boil.
2. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering broth.
3. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fluffy and cooked through. Do not lift the lid!

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
2. Ladle into bowls. Enjoy!

Cooking Notes

• Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is easiest, but leftover cooked chicken works great too.
• Broth: Homemade broth adds extra flavor!
• Dumplings: Don’t overmix the dough – slightly sticky is perfect.

Variations

Herb Dumplings

• Add fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, chives) to the dumpling dough.

Creamy Chicken and Dumplings

• Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream before adding the dumplings.

Vegetable Chicken and Dumplings

• Add frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Make the stew ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat and add fresh dumplings when ready.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Dumplings may become denser.

Can I Freeze Chicken and Dumplings?

Freeze the stew (up to 3 months), but dumplings don’t freeze well. Make fresh dumplings when ready to serve.

Enjoy this warm, comforting classic! Happy cooking!