# Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings – A Complete Guide 🍗🥟
## Introduction
Sometimes we all crave a hearty and comforting dish that reminds us of home. Look no further, as you are about to learn how to cook Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings – a one-pot dish that’s perfect for those chilly evenings.
## Why make this recipe
Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings are the classic comfort food. The dish combines succulent shredded chicken with tasty vegetables and tender dumplings. It’s a perfect addition to your winter cooking repertoire, and effortlessly feeds the whole family with minimal effort.
## How to make Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings
## Ingredients :
For the Chicken Stew:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bay leaf
For the Dumplings:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
## Directions :
1. Prepare the Stew:
– Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until soft.
– Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
– Pour in chicken broth, add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
– Add the shredded chicken and cook for 10 more minutes, letting flavors meld.
2. Make the Dumplings:
– In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
– Stir in buttermilk and melted butter until just combined.
3. Add Dumplings to Stew:
– Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto the simmering stew. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
4. Serve:
– Remove bay leaf. Ladle chicken and dumplings into bowls and garnish with parsley if desired.
## How to serve Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings
Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings is best served hot. Ladle into a bowl and enjoy as is or with a crusty bread on the side for a deliciously comforting meal.
## How to store Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove until hot throughout before serving.
## Tips to make Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings
– Ensure the dumpling batter is just combined to keep them tender and light.
– Be patient and resist the urge to lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking. They need the steam to cook properly.
## Variation (if any)
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn to the stew for added texture and flavor.
## FAQs
1. **Can I use store-bought chicken broth for the stew?**
Yes, store-bought chicken broth works great and saves time.
2. **Can I replace buttermilk in the dumpling recipe?**
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute at home by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of regular milk.
3. **Can I freeze the leftovers of Chicken and Dumplings?**
It’s best not to freeze leftovers as the dumplings may become soggy when thawed. However, the stew without the dumplings can be frozen and reheated later. When ready to serve, make the dumplings fresh.
With the prep and cook time totaling just an hour, this Homestyle Chicken & Dumplings recipe will fill your home with a delightful aroma that brings back homey memories and serves a nourishing meal that feeds the soul. Enjoy!