Quick Chicken And Dumplings
Quick Chicken And Dumplings is a heartwarming, comforting dish that evokes memories of cozy family dinners and sweet home-cooked meals. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth that warms the soul. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish showcases the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a feast for the senses. The aroma of sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs fills the air, making it hard to resist diving right in. With its quick, step-by-step preparation, you’ll be thrilled to bring this simple comfort food to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Quick Chicken And Dumplings recipe offers a myriad of benefits that cater to the needs of modern cooking. Firstly, it entails easy prep, making it an excellent choice for families on the go or anyone who wants a warm meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find that it’s family-friendly, perfect for picky eaters, as they’ll love the tender chicken and soft dumplings. Not to mention, it provides a sense of nostalgia that many associate with traditional comfort foods without the lengthy processes usually involved. Minimal ingredients ensure that you won’t be scouring the aisles for obscure items, allowing for a quick meal that can be ready in no time.
Ingredients For Quick Chicken And Dumplings
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons butter – for a rich base
- 1 medium onion, chopped – adding sweetness and depth
- 2 carrots, sliced – bringing a pop of color and crunch
- 2 celery stalks, sliced – for a fresh, aromatic touch
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – offering a mouthwatering aroma
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs – the star of the dish
- 6 cups chicken broth – providing a savory foundation
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the core of the dumplings
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – for fluffy texture
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhancing the flavors
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – a hint of warmth
- ¾ cup milk – binding the dumpling dough
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – a garnish for freshness
Step-by-Step Directions for Quick Chicken And Dumplings
To bring this dish to life, follow these straightforward directions:
Melt the Butter: Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. The butter will form the flavorful base for your aromatics.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Sauté them until they soften and the onions become translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.
Incorporate Garlic and Chicken: Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic, allowing the fragrance to envelop your kitchen. Next, add the 1 pound of boneless chicken breast or thighs and lightly sear the pieces until they’re slightly browned.
Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, enveloping the chicken and veggies in a warm bath of savory goodness.
Prepare the Dumpling Dough: In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Gradually stir in ¾ cup of milk, forming a soft, sticky dough.
Drop in the Dumplings: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth. These fluffy clouds will cook alongside the chicken, soaking up all the flavors.
Steam Dumplings: Cover the pot and steam the dumplings until they become fluffy and cooked through, usually about 15 minutes.
Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces, shred them with forks, and return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well to integrate everything.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then finish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for that vibrant, fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Quick Chicken And Dumplings, consider these chef’s secrets:
- Herb Infusion: Add a bay leaf or a couple of sprigs of thyme to the broth while simmering for an extra depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add frozen peas or corn for added sweetness and color.
- Dumpling Texture: For softer dumplings, avoid over-mixing the dough. A light hand keeps them fluffy!
- Creamy Goodness: For a creamier broth, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
- Umami Boost: A dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the broth without sacrificing any of the wholesome vibes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
When serving Quick Chicken And Dumplings, consider garnishing with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color that invites everyone to the table. Pair it with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Fresh, warm bread is also a delightful addition for soaking up the flavorful broth. For drinks, a lightly brewed mint tea serves as a perfect complement, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Nutritional Information
Quick Chicken And Dumplings is not only comforting but relatively wholesome as well. On average, a serving provides around:
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
Enjoying this dish can be a delicious indulgence with a sense of satisfaction from wholesome, nourishing ingredients.
Storing Tips & Variations For Quick Chicken And Dumplings
If you find yourself with leftovers, Quick Chicken And Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze it, consider freezing the broth and dumplings separately; the dumplings tend to become too soft when thawed. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary. For healthier swaps, opt for whole-wheat flour for the dumplings or use skinless chicken to reduce fat content. Add seasonal veggies or leftover turkey for unique twists.
Conclusion For Quick Chicken And Dumplings
Now that you have the steps to create Quick Chicken And Dumplings, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This dish promises a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for family nights or a cozy weekend meal. Don’t hesitate; make it part of your regular rotation!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to cook it until fully thawed through the simmering process.
2. Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the dumplings fresh; however, you can mix the dry ingredients together in advance.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
4. What can I use instead of chicken?
Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian-friendly option.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour for the dumplings and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Quick Chicken And Dumplings
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A heartwarming dish combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sear the chicken pieces until slightly browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- In a bowl, mix the flour with baking powder, salt, and pepper, then stir in the milk to form a soft dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
- Cover the pot and steam the dumplings until fluffy, about 15 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then add freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a creamier broth, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving. You can also add frozen peas or corn for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
