Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this classic Betty Crocker-inspired Chicken and Dumplings recipe! This dish is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please the whole family. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner idea or a cozy weekend supper. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for 6 servings of delicious chicken and dumplings. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller groups.
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup shortening or butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup milk
Instructions:
Making the Chicken and Broth:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps develop flavor and creates a richer broth.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Making the Dumplings:
- While the chicken simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold shortening or butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is important for light and fluffy dumplings.
- Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Once the chicken is cooked, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the top of the simmering chicken and broth. Do not stir.
Cooking the Dumplings and Serving:
- Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently, as this can cause the dumplings to collapse.
- Once cooked, serve the chicken and dumplings immediately. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful garnish and extra flavor.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don't overmix the dumpling dough. Overmixing will result in tough dumplings.
- If your dumplings are browning too quickly on top, reduce the heat slightly.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the broth, such as potatoes, peas, or green beans.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy this classic dish, a true testament to the joy of homemade cooking and simple, delicious food recipes. It's a recipe you'll come back to again and again!