Chicken And Dumplings

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. This classic dish is a soul-soothing meal that warms you from the inside out. Filled with tender pieces of chicken, hearty vegetables, and pillowy dumplings that soak up all the rich flavors, this recipe is a favorite for cozy nights at home or sharing with loved ones. So, let’s dive into making this heartwarming dish that always hits the spot.

**Chicken and Dumplings**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole chicken, about 3-4 pounds, cut into pieces
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery ribs, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Dumplings:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter

**Instructions:**

1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, combine the chicken pieces, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

2. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a thick batter forms.

3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Take the chicken meat off the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones.

4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the vegetables and broth. Bring the mixture back to a simmer over medium heat.

5. Drop the dumpling batter by spoonfuls into the simmering broth, making sure not to overcrowd. Cover and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they have puffed up and cooked through.

6. Gently stir the dumplings without breaking them apart. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serve the Chicken and Dumplings hot in deep bowls, making sure each portion gets a generous mix of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and an additional layer of flavor.

Enjoy this heartwarming dish with your favorite greens or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal that will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket of comfort.

There you have it, a simple yet incredibly comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a bit of warmth and hearty goodness. It’s a timeless classic that never fails to bring joy to the table and smiles to those who indulge in its deliciousness.