Comforting Stovetop Chicken and Dumplings: A Hearty Family Favorite
A delicious Stovetop Chicken and Dumplings recipe that combines tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth, perfect for family dinners.
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb Boneless Chicken Thighs Offers rich flavor; can swap for chicken breasts for a lighter dish.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing; any cooking oil can be used here.
- 1 Medium Onion Adds depth to the broth; substitute with shallots for a sweeter flavor.
- 2 Carrots Brings sweetness and color; parsnips or sweet potatoes can be used instead.
- 2 Celery Stalks Adds crunch; if unavailable, add an extra carrot for sweetness.
- 3 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall flavor; garlic powder (1 tsp) works in a pinch.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Serves as the savory base; vegetable broth is a lighter alternative.
For the Dumplings
- 1 cup Whole Milk Provides creaminess; feel free to use a dairy-free option like almond milk.
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Essential for dumpling structure; gluten-free flour blends can be substituted.
- 1 tbsp Baking Powder Essential for fluffiness; avoid swapping as it impacts texture.
- ½ tsp Salt Enhances flavor; adjust according to dietary needs.
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Adds a bit of spice; white pepper can be a milder alternative.
- ½ cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Adds freshness; can omit if not available.
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Brightens the dish; vinegar can serve as a substitute for acidity.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the boneless chicken thighs to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then sear them until they turn golden brown, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften a bit.
- Pour in the chicken broth, making sure you scrape the bottom of the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, combine the milk with melted butter, then pour this into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon dollops of your dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let them cook undisturbed for 15-20 minutes.
- Just before serving, stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice to add a fresh zing to your dish.
Notes
Avoid lifting the pot lid while the dumplings are cooking to keep the steam essential for perfect fluffiness. Consider preparing the chicken and broth in advance for a quick meal later.