Perfect Homemade Chicken and Dumplings: A Fluffy and Delectable Soup

Take your comfort food to the next level with this easy and delicious homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe. This soup is packed with tender chicken pieces, creamy broth, and light and fluffy dumplings that are a perfect match for any cold winter evening. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or just wanting to indulge in some comforting home-cooked aromas, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients for Chicken and Broth

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds or 4-6 chicken thighs) 8 cups chicken broth or water (use chicken broth if using a whole chicken) 1 quartered onion 2-3 chopped carrots 2-3 chopped celery stalks 3-4 minced garlic cloves 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried rosemary Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter 1 cup frozen peas (optional) 1 cup heavy cream (optional for a richer broth)

Ingredients for Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon sugar 1 cup milk 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 large egg

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken (whole or thighs), garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and discard the bones and skin.

Make the Dumplings

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and egg, and mix until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the mixture should be slightly lumpy.

Combine and Cook

Return the shredded chicken and its broth back to the pot. If using, stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream for a richer broth. Bring the broth back to a gentle simmer. Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, leaving some space between each dumpling as they will expand while cooking. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam for about 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time as it will release the steam needed for fluffy dumplings.

Serve

Once the dumplings are cooked through, they should be fluffy and firm. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Fluffy Dumplings

Do not overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings. Use a light hand when combining ingredients. Steam the dumplings: Cover the pot to keep the moisture in, which will help create fluffy dumplings. Adjust the broth: You can adjust the thickness of the broth by adding more or less cream or adjusting the amount of broth used. This ensures the perfect texture for your dumplings.

Enjoy your homemade chicken and dumplings, a dish that will warm your soul and fill your home with cozy comfort.