When it comes to comforting and homey meals, chicken and dumplings always take the top spot. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out in the kitchen, finding the perfect chicken and dumplings recipe can be a game-changer. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular chicken and dumplings recipes that are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. From classic versions to unique twists, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more. Get your apron ready, because it’s time to cook up some delicious chicken and dumplings!
Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Traditional Southern recipe
If you’re craving a comforting and nostalgic meal, look no further than this classic chicken and dumplings recipe. Hailing from the South, this dish is known for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. The tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with love and warmth.
Ingredients
To make the classic chicken and dumplings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about an hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, making sure to distribute them evenly. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serve the classic chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless Southern recipe.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Convenient crockpot version
If you’re looking for a fuss-free version of chicken and dumplings that requires minimal effort, the easy slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is just what you need. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To make easy slow cooker chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Increase the heat to high and stir in the dumpling batter, dropping spoonfuls of it into the broth. Cover and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serve the easy slow cooker chicken and dumplings hot and enjoy the convenience of this crockpot version.
Healthy Chicken and Dumplings
Lighter and nutritious variation
If you’re looking to enjoy chicken and dumplings while still sticking to a healthy lifestyle, this lighter and nutritious variation is the perfect choice. By making a few swaps and adjustments, you can indulge in this comforting dish without any guilt.
Ingredients
To make healthy chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the almond milk and olive oil until just combined.
Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, distributing them evenly. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and tender.
Serve the healthy chicken and dumplings hot, reveling in the lighter and nutritious twist on this beloved dish.
Vegetarian Chicken and Dumplings
Meat-free alternative
For those who follow a vegetarian diet or simply want to try a meat-free version of chicken and dumplings, this recipe provides the perfect solution. By using plant-based proteins, you can enjoy all the flavors and textures of the original dish while staying true to your dietary choices.
Ingredients
To make vegetarian chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound extra firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the tofu, vegetable broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
While the broth simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the tofu from the pot and set aside. Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, distributing them evenly. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Return the tofu to the pot and gently stir to combine. Serve the vegetarian chicken and dumplings hot, savoring the delicious meat-free alternative.
Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings
Delicious gluten-free version
If you adhere to a gluten-free diet, you don’t have to miss out on the delight of chicken and dumplings. With a few simple substitutions, you can create a delicious gluten-free version that will satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling good.
Ingredients
To make gluten-free chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons butter or dairy-free butter substitute
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken breasts, gluten-free chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the almond milk until just combined.
Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, distributing them evenly. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and tender.
Serve the gluten-free chicken and dumplings hot, marveling at the fact that you can enjoy this classic dish without any gluten.
Spicy Chicken and Dumplings
Added kick to the classic recipe
If you’re someone who loves a bit of heat in your food, this spicy chicken and dumplings recipe will be right up your alley. By incorporating some extra spices and chili peppers, you can elevate the flavors of the classic dish and add a satisfying kick to every bite.
Ingredients
To make spicy chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about an hour, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, making sure to distribute them evenly. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serve the spicy chicken and dumplings hot, and enjoy the flavorful twist that the spices bring to this beloved dish.
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Quick and easy pressure cooker option
For those who want to enjoy the flavors of chicken and dumplings without spending hours in the kitchen, the Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe is the perfect solution. With the help of a pressure cooker, you can create a delicious and comforting meal in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients
To make Instant Pot chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot. Lock the lid in place and set the vent to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the cooked chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot.
Press the sauté function on the Instant Pot to bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, distributing them evenly. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serve the Instant Pot chicken and dumplings hot, reveling in the quick and easy preparation this pressure cooker option provides.
Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
Rich and indulgent twist
For those occasions when you’re in the mood for a truly indulgent meal, look no further than the creamy chicken and dumplings recipe. By adding a rich and velvety cream sauce to the classic dish, you can elevate the flavors and create a truly decadent dining experience.
Ingredients
To make creamy chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about an hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, making sure to distribute them evenly. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm. Stir the cream into the chicken and dumplings mixture, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Serve the creamy chicken and dumplings hot, relishing in the indulgence of this velvety twist on a classic recipe.
Herbed Chicken and Dumplings
Infused with aromatic herbs
For a more fragrant and herbaceous take on chicken and dumplings, the herbed chicken and dumplings recipe is the way to go. By incorporating a variety of aromatic herbs, you can elevate the flavors and add a delightful freshness to this beloved dish.
Ingredients
To make herbed chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about an hour, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, making sure to distribute them evenly. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serve the herbed chicken and dumplings hot, savoring the aromatic flavors that the herbs bring to this comforting dish.
Asian-Inspired Chicken and Dumplings
Flavors of the Far East in a comforting dish
For a unique twist on the classic chicken and dumplings, consider trying the Asian-inspired version. By infusing the dish with the vibrant flavors of the Far East, you can create a memorable meal that combines the best of both worlds.
Ingredients
To make Asian-inspired chicken and dumplings, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
In a large pot, combine the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about an hour, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.
Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Increase the heat and bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, making sure to distribute them evenly. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and sliced green onions. Pour this mixture into the pot of chicken and dumplings, stirring to combine and infuse the flavors.
Serve the Asian-inspired chicken and dumplings hot, delighting in the harmonious blend of familiar comfort and exotic flair.
In conclusion, chicken and dumplings come in a wide range of variations to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you crave the traditional Southern recipe, prefer a healthier twist, or want to explore international flavors, there’s a chicken and dumplings recipe for everyone. So gather your ingredients, hit the kitchen, and enjoy the heartwarming and comforting flavors of this beloved dish in whichever way resonates with you.