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When it comes to ultimate comfort food, Chicken and Dumplings stands out as a timeless classic. To create a fast hearty meal for a family gathering or a comforting dish on a chilly night add Anne’s frozen dumplings to your pot of chicken, broth and vegetables for a quick short cut and easy meal.

bowl of chicken and dumplings with peas and carrots

Jump to Recipe

In this blog post, we’ll explore every aspect of this dish—from its origins and cooking process to detailed nutritional information—ensuring you have all the insights needed to make the best tasting chicken and dumplings.

The Origins of Dumplings in the Midwest

Dumplings have a deep-rooted history in Midwestern cuisine, shaped by the diverse immigrant populations that settled in the region. German, Polish, and other Eastern European settlers brought their traditional dumpling recipes with them, seamlessly integrating these dishes into the local culinary landscape. As a result, dumplings became a staple in many Midwestern kitchens, especially in hearty dishes like chicken and dumplings.

In the Midwest, dumplings are often featured in comforting meals, reflecting the region’s emphasis on simple, satisfying fare. The popular drop dumplings, made from a straightforward dough mixture, are a testament to the Midwest’s resourcefulness. These dumplings are easy to prepare and provide a warm, comforting addition to any pot meal. This adaptation underscores the region’s tradition of transforming basic ingredients into beloved comfort foods, making dumplings a cherished part of Midwestern culinary heritage.

The Comfort Food Appeal of Chicken and Dumplings

Comfort food, like chicken and dumplings, offers more than just physical nourishment; it provides emotional comfort and a sense of nostalgia. These dishes often remind people of home, family gatherings, and simpler times. The concept of comfort food is deeply embedded in many cultures, and in the Midwest, chicken and dumplings hold a special place as a symbol of warmth and hospitality.

The appeal of chicken and dumplings lies in its ability to bring people together. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing at family dinners or potlucks. The creamy chicken soup combined with fluffy dumplings creates a satisfying meal that can feed a crowd and warm the soul. This recipe not only fills the belly but also offers a sense of connection and belonging, embodying the essence of home-cooked goodness.

Different Kinds of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings can be customized in numerous ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations you might consider:

Southern Chicken and Dumplings: This version often features a creamy, buttery broth and drop dumplings that are light and fluffy. The southern take usually includes spices like paprika and cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings: A classic recipe that uses simple ingredients, such as a whole chicken simmered with vegetables, creating a rich, flavorful broth. The dumplings in this version are typically made from scratch and have a dense, hearty texture.
Flat Dumplings: For a different texture, try flat dumplings. These are rolled out with a rolling pin and cut into strips before being added to the stew. They cook quickly and provide a different mouthfeel compared to drop dumplings.
Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings: A convenient variation that uses a slow cooker to prepare the dish. This method allows the flavors to meld together over a longer cooking time, and you can use frozen dumplings for added convenience.
Frozen Dumplings: While homemade dumplings are preferred for their superior texture and flavor, frozen dumplings are a quick alternative. They can be added directly to the stew but may lack the light, fluffy texture of homemade versions.

Why Homemade Dumplings Are Better

Homemade dumplings offer several advantages over store-bought options:

Superior Texture and Flavor: Homemade dumplings, like those in Anne’s recipe, are crafted from scratch, resulting in a light, fluffy texture that’s hard to replicate with frozen or pre-packaged versions. The use of fresh ingredients and the ability to control the consistency of the dough ensures that the dumplings absorb the flavors of the stew better.
Customizable Ingredients: When you make dumplings at home, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the seasoning, use whole-grain flour, or add herbs and spices to enhance the flavor, something that’s often not possible with store-bought dumplings.
Healthier Options: Homemade dumplings allow you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives and excess sodium often found in pre-packaged options. By making your own dumplings, you can ensure they are free from artificial additives and tailored to your dietary needs.
Cost-Effective: Making dumplings from scratch can be more cost-effective than purchasing pre-made options. With basic ingredients like flour, baking powder, and butter, you can create a larger batch of dumplings for a fraction of the cost of store-bought varieties.
Personal Touch: Homemade dumplings bring a personal touch to your meal. The process of making them from scratch adds a sense of accomplishment and connection to the dish, making it even more special when served to family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cups chicken broth (or chicken stock for a richer flavor)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen dumplings (like Anne’s brand)

carrots, celery, onion, chicken ingredients in a bowl

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil then turn to medium low heat.
Let the stew simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Add the frozen peas and stir into stew.
Drop the thawed dumpling dough over the simmering stew, spacing them out a bit.
Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure proper cooking.
Once the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy, gently stir the stew to mix in the dumplings.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

chicken and dumpling ingredients in a bowl

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Using Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it to the stew. This shortcut can save time and enhance the flavor of your dish.
Cooking with a Whole Chicken: For a richer broth, cook a whole chicken in a large stock pot with water and aromatics like bay leaves. After simmering, shred the meat and use the broth as the base for your stew. This method not only adds depth to the flavor but also maximizes the nutritional benefits.
Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a bit of flour with water to create a slurry and stir it into the pot. Let the stew simmer until it reaches your desired thickness. This technique can also help if the stew is too thin after adding the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions: Complement your chicken and dumplings with green beans or a simple salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding thick noodles or extra vegetables to the stew. You can also serve it with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.

bowl of chicken and dumplings surrounded by ingredients

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your meal can help you maintain a balanced diet. Anne’s Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is rich in protein from the chicken and provides essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Each serving offers a good source of lean protein and fiber, contributing to a well-rounded meal. To get precise nutritional information, use a recipe calculator or refer to the labels of your ingredients. This will help you manage portion sizes and make informed dietary choices, especially if you’re tracking your calorie intake or managing specific health conditions.

The Role of Chicken Broth and Chicken Stock

In this recipe, the choice between chicken broth and chicken stock can make a noticeable difference in flavor and richness. Chicken broth is typically lighter and less fatty, while chicken stock, which is made by simmering bones and connective tissues, provides a deeper, richer flavor. Using chicken stock can enhance the stew’s depth and complexity, but chicken broth is a perfectly acceptable choice for a lighter version of the dish. Both options will contribute to the ultimate comfort food experience that Anne’s recipe aims to deliver.

The Impact of Cooking Time and Techniques

The cooking time for chicken and dumplings is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Overcooking the dumplings can result in a dense, heavy texture, while undercooking them might leave them doughy. It’s important to adhere to the suggested cooking times and avoid lifting the lid during the steaming process to ensure the dumplings cook evenly. Additionally, using a low heat Dutch oven or a crock pot can help maintain consistent heat and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Conclusion

Anne’s Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a perfect example of old-fashioned comfort food. Combining tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings, this dish offers a satisfying meal that’s both accessible and delicious. The use of simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process makes it ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe promises to deliver a comforting taste of home.

Next time you’re craving a comforting meal, give Anne’s Easy Chicken and Dumplings a try. You’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite in your household, embodying the true essence of home-cooked goodness. Embrace the rich history of Midwestern dumplings, explore the different variations of chicken and dumplings, and enjoy a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to your table.

If you’re looking for another delicious soup this season, try our Easy Leftover Lasagna Soup! It’s sure to be a family favorite.