Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this classic chicken and dumplings recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly evenings. Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich broth create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
For the dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
Directions:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings!
This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs and vegetables for a dish that suits your taste preferences.
