![To make Easy Chicken and Dumplings, gather these key ingredients: - 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, diced - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups carrots, sliced - 1 cup celery, chopped - 1 tsp dried thyme - 1 tsp dried rosemary - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 tsp baking powder - 1/2 tsp salt - 1/2 cup milk - 2 tbsp butter, melted - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients combine to create a warm and filling dish. The chicken provides protein, while the veggies add flavor and color. The broth forms a rich base, and the dumplings offer a fluffy texture. You can add your own twist to this dish with these optional ingredients: - Frozen peas for extra sweetness - Corn for a pop of color - Different herbs like oregano or basil - A splash of cream for a richer broth Feel free to mix and match these to suit your taste. Personalizing your dish can make it even more special. To make this recipe, you will need: - A large pot for cooking - A cutting board and knife for chopping - A mixing bowl for the dough - A whisk for mixing dry ingredients - A spoon for dropping dumplings Using the right tools keeps your cooking smooth and easy. Having everything ready helps you enjoy the process more. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions that follow! Start by heating a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 lb of diced boneless chicken thighs. Sauté the chicken until it turns golden brown, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, toss in 1 medium chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 cups of sliced carrots, and 1 cup of chopped celery. Sauté these veggies for 5 to 6 minutes, until they soften. This step builds a great flavor base. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well. Create a well in the center of the dry mix. Pour in 1/2 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the mixture just combines into a dough. Be careful not to overmix; it should remain a bit lumpy for fluffy dumplings. Return the cooked chicken to the pot with the sautéed veggies. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. This steaming process makes them rise and become fluffy. After cooking, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color. For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To make fluffy dumplings, use the right ratio of flour and liquid. The dough should be soft, not too dry or runny. Mix gently; over-mixing leads to tough dumplings. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let them steam. This helps them rise and stay fluffy. One common mistake is cooking the dumplings uncovered. This can make them dense. Another mistake is using old baking powder. Always check the expiration date for the best rise. Be careful not to stir the dumplings while they cook. Agitation can break them apart and ruin their fluffy texture. To make your dish pop, add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors. For deeper flavor, sauté the vegetables longer until they caramelize. You can also add a splash of cream for a richer broth. These tips make your chicken and dumplings even more comforting. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above. {{image_2}} You can make easy chicken and dumplings even creamier. To do this, add 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the chicken broth. This change gives the dish a rich texture. You can also use a can of cream of chicken soup. It adds creaminess and flavor with little effort. For a fun twist, try using different types of meat like turkey or even a mix of chicken and sausage. If you want a lighter meal, swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. This reduces fat and calories. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Just be sure to check the mix for baking powder. Lastly, you can add more vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrients. You can boost the taste of your chicken and dumplings with spices. Add paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne for some heat. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can brighten the dish. You can mix in a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh zing. Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to make it just right for you. These variations make it easy to customize this dish. You can check the Full Recipe for more ideas and tips! To keep your chicken and dumplings fresh, let them cool first. Use an airtight container for storage. This helps keep moisture in and prevents drying out. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Label the container with the date to track how long it's been there. When ready to eat your leftovers, use a pot for reheating. Add a splash of broth or water to keep the dish moist. Heat on low to medium heat, stirring gently. This helps prevent the dumplings from breaking apart. You can also use the microwave, but stir halfway through for even heating. You can freeze chicken and dumplings for later. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stove. This keeps the texture nice and fluffy. For the full recipe, check the main article. I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for chicken and dumplings. They stay juicy and tender during cooking. Thighs also add rich flavor to the dish. If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that they can dry out more easily. Yes, you can use frozen vegetables! Frozen veggies are a great time-saver. They cook quickly and still add good taste. If using frozen carrots or peas, add them to the pot for the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they stay bright and flavorful. Dumplings need about 15 to 20 minutes to cook. Cover the pot with a lid during this time. This helps them steam and rise properly. You’ll know they are done when they puff up and feel firm to the touch. Enjoy the fluffy goodness! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. You have all you need to create easy chicken and dumplings. The key ingredients set a strong base. You can customize flavors with optional ingredients and cool spices. Following the step-by-step process ensures a warm and comforting meal. Remember to learn from tips to avoid mistakes and make your dumplings fluffy. Store any leftovers properly and enjoy them later. This dish can change with simple variations, making it a staple in your kitchen. Now, get cooking and share this delightful meal with family.](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21507376-38c9-4f66-b35b-162bfb5424ce-300x300.webp)
Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this easy Chicken & Dumplings recipe that brings warmth to your table. Discover how to create tender chicken in a savory broth, paired with fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. Perfect for cozy nights, this dish is not just delicious but also simple to prepare.