Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that tastes like a big hug? Then look no further! This Paula Deen-inspired chicken dumplings recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. This delicious dish is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Get ready to experience the magic of classic Southern cooking!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup shortening or lard (for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
Making the Chicken and Broth:
- 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.
- Add the chicken thighs to the pot and brown on all sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. Skim off any excess fat from the broth. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Making the Dumplings:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the shortening or lard using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the top of the simmering chicken and broth.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious chicken dumplings hot, right from the pot. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and flavor. This hearty dish is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful broth.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf to the chicken broth while it simmers. Remove it before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for a little heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and green beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
- Thicker dumplings: If you prefer thicker dumplings, add a little more flour to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary depending on specific ingredients used. Calorie count and macro details should be calculated using a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients. This dish is a good source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals.
This Paula Deen-inspired chicken dumplings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the process of creating this comforting classic, and savor every delicious bite! It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Happy cooking!