Hearty Homemade Chicken Dumplings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup milk, or as needed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cubed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • 1 cup frozen green peas
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery

Steps and instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and pinch of salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk to make a soft dough. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Season chicken cubes with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onions become translucent.
  4. Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and cook until no longer pink in the middle.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Add the sliced carrots, frozen green peas and chopped celery into the pot. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer.
  7. Drop the cut dough pieces into the simmering soup and cook until the dumplings are no longer doughy in the center, about 15 minutes.
  8. Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to blend together.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - Used for combining the dry ingredients and mixing the dough.
  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Knife - Used for chopping the onion, garlic, and celery.
  • Large Pot - Used for cooking the chicken and simmering the soup.
  • Spoon - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups - Used to measure the flour, milk, and other ingredients accurately.
  • Cutting Board - Used for cutting the chicken breast and vegetables.
  • Peeler - Used to peel the carrots, if needed.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Replace chicken with diced tofu or tempeh for a meat-free version.
  • Add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dumpling dough for added flavor.
  • Experiment with different vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms.
  • Try using a gluten-free flour blend for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Make a creamy version by adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the broth.
  • Add spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or turmeric to the broth for a more flavorful twist.
  • Top the chicken dumplings with grated cheese before serving for a cheesy variation.

Recipe overview

This recipe is a classic comfort food that you'll want to make again and again. Chicken Dumplings are a hearty and warm dish, perfect for a cold winter night or when you're in need of some home-cooked goodness. Tender pieces of chicken and soft dumplings are simmered in a rich and flavorful broth filled with carrots, peas, and celery. This meal is not only delicious but also very filling, making it a great choice for a family dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to follow but doesn't compromise on taste. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare yourself for a delightful cooking and dining experience!

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the dumplings may be slightly different.
  2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
  3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! You can use fresh carrots, peas, and celery instead of frozen. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness.
  4. Can I make the dumplings in advance? It's best to make the dumplings fresh and add them to the soup just before serving. If you make them in advance and let them sit in the soup, they may become soggy.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this chicken dumplings soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - Used for combining the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Cutting Board - Used for cutting the chicken breast into cubes and chopping the onion and celery.
  • Knife - Used for cutting the chicken breast, onion, garlic, and celery.
  • Large Pot - Used for cooking the chicken dumplings soup.
  • Rolling Pin - Used for rolling out the dumpling dough.
  • Soup Ladle - Used for serving the chicken dumplings soup.
  • Spoon - Used for stirring the soup and dumplings.

Origin stories

Dumplings, in their various forms, have a rich global history, with each culture putting its unique spin on the comforting dish. The specific tradition of chicken and dumplings is believed to have originated in the Southern United States during the Antebellum era. The dish was a hearty and economical way to stretch ingredients—especially in times when meat was scarce—while still providing a filling meal. Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food known for its simplicity and the warmth it brings to the dinner table. It's interesting to note that while the dish is typically associated with Southern cuisine, its roots may stretch back even further, with some food historians suggesting that it could have been influenced by the Pennsylvania Dutch and their habit of adding dough to their stews. This journey of chicken and dumplings mirrors the melting pot that is American cuisine, taking a little bit from each culture to create something uniquely comforting and delicious.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.