Cozy Chicken and Dumplings with Homemade Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a warm, hearty meal. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth with fluffy homemade dumplings to create a dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup milk

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Stir in the flour, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Vegetables

Incorporate the shredded chicken, frozen peas and carrots, and heavy cream into the pot. Season with dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

While the soup simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk just until a dough forms.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 15-20 minutes. The dumplings should be cooked through and have expanded, becoming light and fluffy.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for an extra touch of flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 400 per serving
Servings: 6

This cozy chicken and dumplings recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for feeding a crowd. Enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade goodness in every bite!