Craving a comforting, homemade meal but short on time? This Chicken and Dumplings recipe using frozen dumplings is your answer! Forget hours of tedious dumpling-making; we're keeping it simple and delicious with a shortcut that doesn't compromise on flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will love. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on taste without demanding a lot of your time.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (14-ounce) package frozen dumplings
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your delicious dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmering develops a rich and savory broth.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
Carefully add the frozen dumplings to the pot, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Avoid over-stirring to prevent the dumplings from breaking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Give the dumplings enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Use different vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the broth for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Chicken and Dumplings with different herbs: Experiment with different herb combinations like oregano, sage, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams
This easy chicken and dumplings recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and delicious. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe proves that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be amazing, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights. Enjoy!