Hearty Chicken and Dumplings Stew

Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s a hearty recipe for you:

Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 3/4 cup milk

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken Stew:
  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  • Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  • Remove the chicken from the pot and let cool slightly. Remove the bones and skin, then shred the meat and return it to the pot.
  • Add the peas and heavy cream (if using), and let simmer while you prepare the dumplings.
  1. Prepare the Dumplings:
  • In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in the milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  1. Cook the Dumplings:
  • Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering stew. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
  1. Serve:
  • Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.

Enjoy your comforting Chicken and Dumplings!