Homemade Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Classic

A bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and joy with every spoonful. The rich, creamy broth filled with tender chunks of chicken and soft, fluffy dumplings offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re snuggled up on a chilly winter’s day or craving a dish that reminds you of home, this meal is a true delight. It’s more than just food—it’s a soothing, soul-warming experience that can lift your spirits. The best part? Despite its comforting depth of flavor, it’s surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy the satisfaction of a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth:

• 1 (3-pound) whole chicken
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, quartered
• 2 celery stalks, quartered
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups water

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk

Instructions

Preparing the Broth:

1. Combine Ingredients: Place the whole chicken, onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper in a large stockpot. Add 8 cups of water.
2. Simmer: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove and Shred: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. Strain the broth, discarding the vegetables.

Making the Dumplings:

1. Prep the Dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to create a dry mix.
2. Add Milk: Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.
3. Drop Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
4. Cook Dumplings: Cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.

Combining and Serving:

1. Return Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back to the broth.
2. Serve: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Dumplings:

• Don’t Overcook the Dumplings: Cook them just until they float to the top of the broth. Overcooking can make them tough.
• Season the Broth: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices.
• Customize Your Dumplings: Experiment with different types of flour, milk, or add herbs or cheese to the dough.
• Serve with Sides: Pair your chicken and dumplings with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Conclusion

This classic comfort food recipe is effortless to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings that will warm your soul.

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• Check out our Buffalo Chicken Dip Crock Pot Recipe recipe for another comforting favorite.
• Explore our Crockpot Recipe with Chicken for a filling, hearty meal.
• Discover the origins of chicken and dumplings at Food Timeline.
• Learn how to make homemade chicken stock from Bon Appétit.