Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings

There’s something inherently soothing about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings. This classic dish, often revered as a staple of homestyle cooking, embodies comfort and nostalgia, evoking memories of family gatherings and cold winter evenings. As the hearty aroma wafts through the house, it beckons everyone to the table, promising a satisfying meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Discover the warmth and nostalgia of homestyle chicken and dumplings with this comforting recipe. Perfect for cozy family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich, flavorful broth. Each bite is a delightful blend of protein, vegetables, and essential nutrients. Learn the secrets to crafting this classic comfort food from scratch, with practical tips and variations to suit your taste. Create lasting memories in your kitchen as you enjoy this timeless meal with loved ones.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, sliced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cubed

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.

Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Add the thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Prepare the Dumplings: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Dumpling Time: After the chicken has cooked, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Use a spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling mixture into the simmering soup. Space them evenly and cover the pot with a lid.

Steam the Dumplings: Allow the dumplings to cook undisturbed for 15-20 minutes, until they are puffed up and cooked through. Do not lift the lid during this time.

Finish and Serve: Once the dumplings are done, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings