Classic Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Stew

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

1. Add Garlic and Seasonings:

• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

1. Simmer:

• Allow the stew to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld. If using, stir in the heavy cream for added richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Add Peas:

• Stir in the frozen peas and remove the bay leaf. Keep the stew warm over low heat.

Step 2: Make the Dumplings

5. Prepare the Dumpling Dough:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Combine with Milk:

• Pour in the milk and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

7. Drop the Dumplings:

• Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter directly onto the surface of the simmering stew. Make sure to leave some space between each dumpling, as they will expand while cooking.

7. Cover and Cook:

• Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam for 15-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it may affect the cooking process.

7. Check for Doneness:

• After 15 minutes, check the dumplings. They should be fluffy and cooked through. If you insert a toothpick, it should come out clean.

Step 4: Serve

10. Serve the Dish:
    • Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken Options: Feel free to use leftover cooked chicken, or poach chicken breasts in the broth for added flavor.
• Dumpling Variations: For a twist, add herbs like dill or chives to the dumpling batter.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

This comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Enjoy! 🍲✨