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A close-up of a rustic pot filled with creamy chicken and herb-flecked dumplings, brightly lit.

Chicken and Dumplings

This comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe features tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth. It's a hearty meal perfect for a cozy evening.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: dinner, main dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Broth
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 cup matchstick carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk or half and half
  • 1 (32 oz) quart chicken stock +1 extra cup of broth if using raw chicken
  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken or 1.5 lbs raw, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper or to taste
  • salt to taste
For the Dumplings
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (6 oz)
  • 4 tablespoons butter melted

Method
 

  1. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  2. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in evaporated milk and chicken stock until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  3. Add the shredded cooked chicken (or raw chicken, if using), 1 tablespoon thyme, 2 teaspoons black pepper, and salt to taste. Continue to simmer gently while preparing the dumplings.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, combine 2 cups flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon thyme for the dumplings.
  5. Pour in the 3/4 cup whole milk and 4 tablespoons melted butter. Stir with a fork until just combined to form a soft, shaggy dough.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering chicken mixture. Do not overcrowd the pot.
  7. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock. If using raw chicken, ensure it is cooked through before serving.