Introduction
Are you craving a comforting and hearty meal that reminds you of your grandma’s cooking? Look no further than Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings. This classic dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy sauce that warms both your body and soul. Whether you have fond memories of enjoying this dish at your grandma’s kitchen table or are eager to create new traditions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings is a timeless recipe that has been passed down through generations. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic. From simmering the chicken to perfection to preparing the pillowy dumplings, every step in this recipe is a labor of love that results in a dish that is worth every minute of effort.
With this detailed recipe, you’ll learn how to recreate Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings in your own kitchen. Get ready to fill your home with the tantalizing aroma of simmering chicken, savory herbs, and freshly baked dumplings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps required to make this comforting meal that will have your family coming back for seconds.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you back to the warmth and love of your grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 cups of chicken broth
For the Dumplings:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 cup of milk
For the Creamy Sauce:
– 1/2 cup of butter
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 4 cups of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these steps to prepare Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces, celery, carrots, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and skin.
4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and keep warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumplings
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering chicken mixture. Cover and cook for 10 minutes without lifting the lid.
4. After 10 minutes, uncover the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Cook the sauce until thickened, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations
While Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings is a beloved classic, there are endless ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
Vegetarian Option:
– Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, peas, and potatoes in place of the chicken.
Herb Infusion:
– Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the creamy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Twist:
– Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika into the dumpling batter for a subtle kick of heat.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings turn out perfectly every time:
1. Use Homemade Chicken Broth:
For the best flavor, consider making your own chicken broth from scratch. It will elevate the taste of the dish.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Batter:
Be careful not to overmix the dumpling batter, as this can result in tough dumplings. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
3. Adjust the Consistency of the Sauce:
If the creamy sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. Likewise, if it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer to thicken.
4. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the finished dish for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of tradition and a hug on a plate. With its tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and luscious creamy sauce, this dish embodies comfort and warmth in every bite. By following this recipe, you can recreate the magic of grandma’s kitchen and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
So, the next time you’re in need of a hearty and soul-soothing meal, look no further than Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings. From the first comforting spoonful to the last, this dish is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to all who gather around your table.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-made dumplings instead of making them from scratch?
A: While homemade dumplings are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can certainly use pre-made biscuit dough or frozen dumplings as a time-saving alternative.
Q: How long can I store leftovers of Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings?
A: Store any leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding extra liquid as needed to maintain the creamy consistency.
Grandma’s Creamy Chicken & Dumplings
A comforting and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, creamy sauce that embodies tradition and nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients
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1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
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2 stalks of celery, chopped
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2 carrots, peeled and sliced
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1 onion, diced
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4 cloves of garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper to taste
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6 cups of chicken broth
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2 cups of all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon of baking powder
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1 teaspoon of salt
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1/4 cup of butter, melted
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1 cup of milk
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1/2 cup of butter
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1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
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4 cups of milk
Directions
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In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces, celery, carrots, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until chicken is cooked through.
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Shred the cooked chicken, discard bones and skin, return shredded chicken to the pot, and keep warm.
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Prepare dumplings by mixing flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and milk. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the chicken mixture and cook for 10 minutes covered, then 10 minutes uncovered.
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Make the creamy sauce by melting butter, creating a roux with flour, gradually whisking in milk, and seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Serve the creamy chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
