In this recipe, tender chicken is simmered in a flavorful broth alongside vegetables, and then topped with fluffy dumplings. The result is a satisfying and comforting dish that is perfect for cold nights or when you need a hearty meal. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this classic American dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 3/4 cup milk
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Add the chicken back into the pot and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and skin.
- While the chicken is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the milk and stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Return the pot to the stove and bring the broth to a gentle boil. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the boiling broth. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Interesting Facts
Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern dish that has roots in African and European cooking traditions.
The dumplings in this recipe are light and fluffy, thanks to the addition of baking powder.
Leftover chicken and dumpling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated for an easy and delicious meal.