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When the temperature drops or the clouds gather, there’s nothing more inviting than the aroma of a hearty chicken and dumplings dish simmering on the stove. This classic comfort food has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations, offering not just nourishment but also a sense of nostalgia and home. The act of preparing this meal becomes a moment of connection—whether you’re gathering around the kitchen table with loved ones or savoring a bowl alone on a cozy evening.

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Warm up with a heartwarming bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings, the perfect comfort food for chilly days or family gatherings. This recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a nourishing meal that evokes nostalgia and connection. Discover the joy of cooking and sharing this classic dish, ensuring cozy moments filled with love and warmth.
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken & Soup:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)

1 cup water

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup frozen peas (optional)

For the Dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 cup milk (whole or your preferred version)

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Next, add the chicken breasts along with the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink in the center).

    Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir. If you’re including frozen peas, add them now and mix gently to combine.

      Prepare the Dumpling Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and milk until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should remain slightly lumpy for fluffy dumplings.

        Cook the Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the surface of the simmering chicken soup; do not stir after this point! Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, allowing the dumplings to steam and rise without lifting the lid.

          Serve: Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, ladle generous portions of the chicken and dumplings into bowls. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Dive in and enjoy this heartwarming meal!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4