Go Back
In today's fast-paced world, the comforting embrace of a homemade meal can feel like a nostalgic refuge from the chaos of daily life. The aroma of simmering ingredients wafting through the kitchen can transport us back to simpler times, where meals were shared around the table, and family bonds were strengthened over hearty dishes. Among these cherished recipes, chicken and dumplings stand out as a quintessential comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings for Busy Nights

Discover the perfect solution for busy weeknights with our Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings recipe. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings for a hearty meal that comes together quickly. Enjoy the rich flavors and warm aroma that will transport you to home-cooked meals of the past. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering, this recipe is designed to nourish your body and soul while creating lasting memories around the table.

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Stew:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 large carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

1 cup whole milk

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions
 

Cook the Chicken:

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

      Add Vegetables and Broth:

        Stir in the diced carrots and celery, followed by the chicken broth, thyme, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

          Prepare Dumpling Batter:

            While the chicken stew is simmering, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk and melted butter. Gradually add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix; the batter should be lumpy.

              Drop in Dumplings:

                After the chicken stew has simmered, use a spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling batter directly onto the bubbling stew. Cover the pot with a lid and increase the heat slightly. Let the dumplings steam on top of the stew for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

                  Finish and Serve:

                    Once the dumplings are puffed and cooked through, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for garnish if desired.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 40 min | 4 servings