Best Homemade Chicken and Dumpling Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

If you're on the hunt for the best homemade chicken and dumpling recipe, you've come to the right place. This dish is a classic comfort food that warms the……

If you're on the hunt for the best homemade chicken and dumpling recipe, you've come to the right place. This dish is a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the taste buds. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just craving something hearty, this chicken and dumpling recipe is sure to hit the spot.

### Ingredients:

**For the Chicken Stew:**

- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cut into pieces

- 8 cups chicken broth

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 3 carrots, sliced

- 3 celery stalks, sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

**For the Dumplings:**

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 cup milk

- 2 tablespoons butter, melted

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Stew

1. **Sear the Chicken:** In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

3. **Add the Broth and Spices:** Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. **Cook the Chicken:** Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. **Shred the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

#### Step 2: Make the Dumplings

1. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. **Add the Wet Ingredients:** Slowly stir in the milk and melted butter until the mixture forms a dough.

3. **Form the Dumplings:** Using a spoon, scoop out small portions of the dough and drop them into the simmering chicken stew. Make sure the dumplings are not too big, as they will expand while cooking.

#### Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

1. **Simmer:** Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes. They should be fluffy and cooked through.

2. **Check for Doneness:** To ensure the dumplings are fully cooked, insert a toothpick into one. If it comes out clean, they are ready.

### Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Recipe:

- **Season Well:** Don't be shy with the salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of both the chicken and the dumplings.

- **Use Fresh Herbs:** If you have fresh thyme and rosemary on hand, use them instead of dried herbs for a more robust flavor.

- **Don't Overcrowd the Pot:** Make sure there's enough space for the dumplings to expand. If the pot is too crowded, the dumplings may not cook evenly.

This chicken and dumpling recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings create a symphony of textures and tastes that are hard to resist. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

So, next time you're in the mood for something comforting and delicious, give this chicken and dumpling recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!