Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Chicken and Dumplings recipe for its comforting flavors and heartwarming simplicity.
There’s something magical about the aroma that fills my kitchen as it simmers, drawing everyone in. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy nights.
The tender chicken paired with fluffy dumplings creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. I appreciate how easy it’s to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Plus, each bite is a hug in a bowl, reminding me that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that leave the biggest impact.
Ingredients of Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to making Chicken and Dumplings, the ingredients are key to creating that cozy, heartwarming dish that wraps you in comfort. You’ll find a mix of fresh veggies, tender chicken, and simple pantry staples, all coming together to create a delightful meal that fills your home with enticing aromas.
The best part? Most of these ingredients are likely already hanging out in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up this classic dish whenever the mood strikes. So, let’s gather our treasure trove of ingredients and get ready to create something truly delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (2 1/2 lb) roasting chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 3 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1 teaspoon house seasoning (you can whip up your own or use a store-bought blend)
- 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup or cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Ice water (about 3/4 cup)
Now, while gathering these ingredients, don’t stress if you’re missing something. It’s all about improvisation. For instance, if you don’t have cream of celery soup, cream of chicken is a great substitute.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some herbs or spices that you love? Fresh thyme or a sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate the flavor even more.
Also, remember that cooking is about making it work for you, so feel free to adjust the quantities or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. After all, culinary creativity is just as important as following a recipe.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings
Making Chicken and Dumplings is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket—it’s comforting and delicious. First things first, let’s get that chicken ready. Grab your 1 (2 1/2 lb) roasting chicken, cut into 8 pieces, and toss it into a large pot. Add in 3 chopped celery ribs, 1 chopped large onion, 2 bay leaves, and 2 chicken bouillon cubes. Sprinkle in a teaspoon of house seasoning, which you can totally whip up if you don’t have a pre-made blend.
Now, pour in about 4 quarts of water and bring it all to a simmer over medium heat. Oh, the aromas already starting to swirl in your kitchen! Let that chicken simmer away for about 40 minutes, until it’s tender and the juices run clear. Once it’s cool enough to handle, remove the chicken, strip off the skin, and separate the meat from the bones. Return the glorious chicken meat back to the pot and keep it warm over low heat.
Now, let’s talk dumplings because, let’s be real, they’re the star of the show. In a separate mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt. Make a little mound in the middle, and here’s where it gets fun—drizzle a small amount of ice water over your flour mound and, with your fingers, start working it from the inside out. It’s like a little dough massage.
You want to incorporate about 3/4 cup of ice water until it forms a nice dough ball. Don’t be shy about kneading it a bit, then roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Let it relax for a few minutes (we all need a break sometimes, right?).
While that dough is chilling out, add 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can of cream of celery soup or cream of chicken soup to your pot with the chicken, and let it simmer gently over medium-low heat.
Now that the soup is bubbling away, it’s time to cut the dough into 1-inch pieces. Here’s a little trick: pull each piece in half before dropping them into the simmering soup. It’s like giving them a little swim before they get comfy.
Don’t stir the pot once you add the dumplings; instead, gently move the pot in a circular motion to guarantee that they cook evenly and don’t stick together. You’ll know they’re ready when they float and are no longer doughy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
When it’s time to serve, ladle that luscious chicken, gravy, and dumplings into warm bowls, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a hug from the inside. There’s nothing quite like it.
Chicken and Dumplings Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are plenty of substitutions and variations for chicken and dumplings that can keep your taste buds excited.
You can swap out chicken for turkey or even use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Instead of cream of celery soup, try cream of mushroom or a homemade sauce for a fresh twist.
For dumplings, consider using biscuit dough or even gnocchi. If you’re feeling adventurous, add veggies like carrots or peas for extra flavor.
Each variation brings a unique spin to this classic dish, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
Additional Tips & Notes
Experimenting with substitutions and variations can really enhance your chicken and dumplings experience. I often swap out the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or even a homemade roux for a richer flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. Don’t forget to season your dumplings; a pinch of garlic powder can make a difference.
For a heartier dish, consider adding veggies like carrots or peas just before dropping in the dumplings. Always remember, your taste buds are the final judge, so adjust seasonings as you see fit.
Enjoy your cooking!