Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A comfort Food Classic

Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  Few dishes evoke the warmth and comfort of home like a hearty bowl of Chicken and Dumplings.

This country classic, with its tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth is the ultimate comfort food.  Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you through creating a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Easy to Make:  Despite its gourmet appearance, chicken and dumplings are surprisingly simple to prepare.  With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll have a comfroting meal on the table in no time.  
• Perfect for All Seasons:  This dish is a go-to for cold winter nights, but it's also a fantastic option for a cozy summer evening.  The rich flavors and hearty textured make it a year-round favorite.  
• Versatile:  Customize you chicken and dumplings by adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or celery, or spice it up with some herbs and seasonings to suit your taste.  

INGREDIENTS:

For this Chicken and Dumplings recipe you will need to gather a few simple ingredeints:

For the Chicken and Broth:

• 1 lb of Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
• 6 cups of Chicken Stock
• 3 Carrots, diced
• 3 Stalks of Celery, diced
• 1 Onion, diced
• 3 Cloves of Garlic, minced
• 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 Tbsp Baking Powder
• 1 Tbsp Seasoning Salt
• 3 Tbsp Butter, melted
• 1 cup Milk, warm

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Chicken and Broth:  Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both.  Add a little olive oil and place over medium-high heat.  Add the chicken to the pot and brown for 4-6 minutes on each side.  Remove the chicken from the pot. 
2. Sauté the Aromatics:  Add the carrot, celery, and onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, and the carrots are tender.  Add the garlic and cook for one minute longer.
3. Simmer the Broth:  Either shred or dice the chicken, return to the pot, and add the chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt and pepper.  Bring to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes.  
4. Make the Dumplings:  In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.  Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.  Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
5. Combine and Cook:  Using a spoon or a scoop drop tablespoon-sized dumpling balls into the simmering broth.  Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook 10-15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through.  Stir gently to make sure the dumplings don't stick to the bottom of the pot.
6. Finish and Serve:  Add the spinach to the chicken and dumplings just before serving.  Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, making sure to include plenty of broth.  Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.  

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken:  To save time, you can pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.  Just shred it and add it to the broth after the dumplings are cooked. 
• Flavor Boost:  Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the broth for an extra rich and creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Option:  Swap out the chicken for hearty mushrooms or tofu and use vegetables broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.  

FAQs:

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

Dumplings are best cooked fresh, but you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. 

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.  Reheat gently on the stove top to avoid overcooking the dumplings.

Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze chicken and dumplings.  However, the texture of the dumplings may change slightly after thawing. Freeze the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings for the best result.  

Chicken and dumplings are more than just a meal-they're a tradition.  This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.  Whether you're cooking for family or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!
~The Kitchen Wife~