Are you a fan of comfort food? If so, then you’ve probably heard of chicken and dumplings. This classic dish has been a household favorite for generations, and for a good reason! But what makes chicken and dumplings so unique?
Well, it’s a hearty meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The dish consists of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings cooked in a savory broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for any occasion, whether looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
But what makes the perfect chicken and dumplings recipe? Are there any secrets that make it stand out from the rest? We’ve consulted with renowned chef and food blogger Sarah Smith to answer these questions. She shares her tried and tested recipe for the best chicken and dumplings you’ll ever taste in this article. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of chicken and dumplings and discover the ultimate recipe for this classic comfort food.
A Brief History of Chicken and Dumplings
The origins of chicken and dumplings can be traced back to medieval Europe, where dishes featuring boiled dough were daily. As settlers made their way to the New World, they brought with them their love of dumplings and incorporated them into the hearty stews and soups of the American South. Over time, variations of chicken and dumplings emerged, with each region putting its unique spin on the dish. In the South, it’s often made with a creamy, broth-based sauce, while in the North, a thicker, gravy-like sauce is preferred.
The Perfect Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
While there are countless variations of chicken and dumplings, the best ones are straightforward. Here’s our recipe for the perfect bowl of comfort:
Ingredients:
- One whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 quarts chicken broth
- One onion, chopped
- Three celery stalks, chopped
- Three carrots, chopped
- Two cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- One tablespoon of baking powder
- One teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Once cool, remove the skin and bones and shred the meat.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion, celery, and carrots until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the milk to the flour mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Drop the dough by spoonfuls into the pot, and space them out evenly.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Why Chicken and Dumplings is the Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken and dumplings. The warm, hearty broth may fill you up and warms you from the inside out. Or it’s the tender chunks of chicken that remind you of home-cooked meals from childhood. Whatever the reason, chicken and dumplings have become synonymous with comfort food.
But what is it about comfort food that makes it so appealing? According to a study published in Appetite, comfort food is often associated with positive feelings and memories. It can serve as a form of emotional support during stress or sadness.
Tips for making the recipe easier
If you’re looking to make the recipe for chicken and dumplings a bit easier, here are a few tips:
- Use pre-cooked chicken: Instead of cooking and shredding a whole chicken, consider using pre-cooked chicken from the grocery store. You can find rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts that have been cubed, saving you a lot of time and effort.
- Use canned broth: While homemade chicken broth is delicious, it can also be time-consuming. If you need more time, consider using canned chicken broth instead. Just be sure to look for low-sodium varieties, as some canned broths can be pretty salty.
- Use frozen veggies: Chopping vegetables can be a time-consuming task. To save time, consider using frozen veggies instead. They’re already chopped and ready to go, and they’ll cook just as well as fresh vegetables.
- Use a biscuit mix for the dumplings: If you want to avoid making dumplings from scratch, consider using a biscuit mix instead. Follow the instructions for making the dough, and drop spoonfuls into the pot as the recipe directs.
- Use a slow cooker: If you have a slow cooker, consider using it to make chicken and dumplings. Add all ingredients (except for the dumplings) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked. Then, add the dumplings and cook on high for 30 minutes to 1 hour or until they’re cooked through. This method requires less hands-on time and effort, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
Suggestions for variations on the classic recipe
While the classic recipe for chicken and dumplings is delicious, you can try plenty of variations to mix things up. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add vegetables: While the classic recipe typically includes carrots and celery, you can add any vegetables. Add diced onions, mushrooms, or peas to the pot for flavor and nutrition.
- Use different herbs and spices: Try using other herbs and spices to give your chicken and dumplings a different flavor profile. Thyme, sage, and rosemary all work well with chicken, and you can also experiment with varying blends of spices like cumin or paprika.
- Add cream or cheese: Add a bit of heavy cream to the pot for a creamier version of chicken and dumplings. You can also stir in some grated cheese for added richness and flavor.
- Use different proteins: While chicken is the classic protein for this dish, you can also use other meats like turkey or pork. You can use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken if you’re vegetarian or vegan.
- Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeno or red pepper flakes to the pot if you like a bit of heat. You can also use a spicy chicken broth or add hot sauce to taste.
- Make it gluten-free: If you need to follow a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy chicken and dumplings by using gluten-free flour to make the dumplings. You can also use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour.
- Make it in the Instant Pot: Try making it in the Instant Pot for a faster version of chicken and dumplings. Sauté the vegetables and chicken in the pot, add the broth and dumplings, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
These are just a few ideas for variations on the classic recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite version of chicken and dumplings!
Explanation of how to adapt the recipe to suit different tastes
One of the great things about the recipe for chicken and dumplings is its versatility. You can adapt the recipe to suit different tastes with a few tweaks and substitutions. Here are some ideas for how to do that:
- Adjust the seasoning: The seasonings used in the recipe can be adjusted to suit different tastes. For example, if you like a lot of flavors, you can add more herbs and spices like garlic, cumin, or paprika. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder taste, use less seasoning or leave out any spices you don’t like.
- Change the vegetables: The vegetables used in the recipe can also be changed to suit different tastes. For example, if you don’t like carrots or celery, you can substitute them with vegetables you like, such as onions, green beans, or bell peppers.
- Change the protein: While chicken is the classic protein for this dish, you can also use other meats or proteins to suit different tastes. For example, you could use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken or a mix of various types of meat such as chicken and pork.
- Change the dumplings: The dumplings in this recipe can also be adjusted to suit different tastes. For example, if you like a denser dumpling, you can use more flour in the recipe. Use less flour or add baking powder if you prefer a lighter, fluffier dumpling.
- Change the broth: The type of broth used can also be changed to suit different tastes. For example, you can use chicken stock instead of chicken broth if you prefer a richer broth. If you like a spicier broth, you can use a broth infused with chili peppers or other spicy ingredients.
- Change the cooking method: Finally, the cooking method can also be adjusted to suit different tastes. For example, if you prefer a thicker, creamier sauce, add cream or a roux to the recipe. Alternatively, you can add more broth or water if you like a soupier consistency.
By making these adjustments to the recipe, you can create a dish tailored to your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things to find the perfect version of chicken and dumplings for you.
Ideas for how to serve chicken and dumplings
Chicken and dumplings are classic comfort food that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for how to do this delicious dish:
- In a bowl: The most traditional way to serve chicken and dumplings is in a bowl. Spoon the chicken and dumplings into a bowl and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor and color.
- Over mashed potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken and dumplings over mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes pair well with the savory chicken and dumplings for a delicious meal.
- With a side salad: If you want to lighten up the meal, serve the chicken and dumplings with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and comforting chicken and dumplings.
- With bread: Serve the chicken and dumplings with a slice of fresh bread to sop up the delicious broth. A crusty baguette or a soft dinner roll would both work well.
- As leftovers: Chicken and dumplings are great dishes for leftovers. Store the pieces in the fridge and reheat them for an easy and comforting meal the next day.
- In a casserole: Another way to serve chicken and dumplings is to turn them into soup. Layer the chicken and dumplings with some vegetables and top with a layer of cheese or breadcrumbs. Bake until golden brown and bubbly for a delicious and comforting meal.
These are just a few ideas for how to serve chicken and dumplings. No matter how you do it, this classic comfort food will surely be a hit!
Suggested side dishes
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that is hearty and filling but also pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some suggested side dishes to serve with chicken and dumplings:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes, provide a flavorful and nutritious side dish that complements the savory flavors of the chicken and dumplings.
- Green beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans provide a simple and healthy side dish that pairs well with the comforting flavors of the chicken and dumplings.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy chicken and dumplings.
- Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that goes well with chicken and dumplings. Its sweet and savory flavors complement the dish and add a nice crunch.
- Biscuits: Homemade or store-bought refrigerated biscuits are easy and delicious side dishes that can be served warmly with chicken and dumplings.
- Rice: A side of rice, such as brown or wild rice, can provide a simple and filling addition to the meal that complements the comforting flavors of the chicken and dumplings.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food side dish that pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken and dumplings.
These are just a few suggestions for serving side dishes with chicken and dumplings. Ultimately, the best side dishes depend on personal taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
What is the best type of chicken to use for chicken and dumplings?
The best type of chicken for chicken and dumplings is bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Thighs are a more flavorful and tender chicken cut than chicken breasts, and the bone and skin add extra flavor and richness to the dish.
When making chicken and dumplings, using fresh and high-quality chicken is essential. Purchase organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture.
If you prefer white meat, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be aware that the chicken may be slightly drier and less flavorful.
You can also use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for chicken and dumplings in a pinch. Shred the cooked chicken and added it to the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
Regardless of the type of chicken you use, cook it thoroughly before adding it to the dish. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before it is safe to eat.