Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, often linked to fond memories and family traditions. We all have those dishes that remind us of home, of gatherings around the dinner table, and of loved ones. Chicken and dumplings, in particular, are steeped in history and tradition, often associated with southern cooking in the United States. This dish not only fills the stomach but also nourishes the soul, making it a go-to choice for anyone seeking a little comfort during tough times.

Warm up your winter nights with a bowl of Cozy Comfort Chicken and Dumplings! This heartwarming dish skillfully blends savory chicken stew with fluffy dumplings, creating a satisfying experience that's steeped in nostalgia. Perfect for any gathering or a quiet evening at home, this recipe guides you through simple steps to achieve rich flavors and delightful textures. Discover the joy of making this timeless comfort food that nourishes both body and soul.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped

4 cups chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup frozen peas

For the Dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Simmer the Stew: Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and add thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Prepare the Dumplings: While the stew is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be thick and drop-able.

Cook the Dumplings: When the stew is ready, drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough on top of the simmering stew. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam on top for about 15 minutes, or until they are puffed and cooked through.

Serve: Once the dumplings are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings