Homemade Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Classic Recipe
When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming goodness of homemade chicken and dumplings. This timeless recipe has been a favorite in American households for generations, and for good reason. With tender chunks of chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, it’s the perfect dish to warm your soul on a chilly evening or to enjoy any time you crave a taste of home.
The Origins of Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings have a rich history in American cuisine, dating back to the early settlers who adapted their European recipes to the ingredients available in the New World. Originally, this dish was made with simple ingredients like chicken, flour, and water. Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort food, with regional variations across the United States.
In the South, for example, chicken and dumplings are often made with rolled dumplings, resulting in a thick, hearty stew. In contrast, the Midwest and other regions may prefer drop dumplings, creating a lighter, fluffier texture. Regardless of the regional differences, the core elements of this dish remain the same: tender chicken and dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you embark on your homemade chicken and dumplings journey, gather the following ingredients:
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 pinch salt
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup milk
2 quarts chicken broth
3 cups cooked chicken
Method :
In a bowl combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients with a fork or pastry blender. Stir in the milk, mixing with a fork until the dough forms a ball.
Heavily flour a work surface. You’ll need a rolling pin and something to cut the dumplings with. I like to use a pizza cutter. I also like to use a small spatula to lift the dumplings off the cutting surface.
Roll the dough out thin with a heavily floured rolling pin. Dip your cutter in flour and cut the dumplings in squares about 2×2-inches each. It’s okay for them not to be exact. Just eye ball it. Some will be bigger, some smaller, and some might be shaped funny.
Use the floured spatula to put them on a heavily floured plate. Just keep flouring between the layers of dumplings.
To cook them, bring the broth to a boil. Drop the dumplings in one at a time, stirring while you add them. The extra flour on them will help thicken the broth.
Cook them for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they don’t taste doughy.
Add the cooked chicken to the pot and serve
Pro Tips for success :
- For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables in butter or oil before adding them to the broth.
- To make the dumplings fluffier, don’t overmix the dough; it should be slightly lumpy.
- Use homemade chicken stock for the best taste, but store-bought stock works too.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a delicious meal the next day.
Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 31g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 18g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion:
Homemade chicken and dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm embrace with every bite. This recipe allows you to create this timeless classic in the comfort of your own kitchen. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a savory broth, it’s a meal that’s sure to please family and friends. Remember the pro tips for success, and enjoy this nourishing, heartwarming dish whenever you need a taste of home.
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