Next, I let the chicken and veggie mixture simmer while I prepare my dumplings. In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then, I add in the melted butter and milk, stirring gently until just combined. I’ve found that overmixing can lead to tough dumplings, which is not what we want! Once the batter is ready, I carefully drop spoonfuls of it onto the simmering broth. I cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the dumplings to puff up and soak in all the luscious flavors.
As the dumplings are cooking, I love to season everything with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. I also stir in some fresh parsley, which adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that brightens the entire dish. The combination of the warm broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings is nothing short of heavenly. Once ready, I scoop out generous portions, and the smell is simply irresistible!
Finally, I serve the Chicken and Dumplings straight from the pot to the table. It’s hard to wait as the flavors meld together, but a warm, cozy bowl of this dish is always worth the wait.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three different ways before landing on my favorite version. Using fresh herbs, like thyme and rosemary, added an aromatic twist to the broth that I couldn’t resist. You could taste the difference!
Another tip is to use high-quality chicken broth. I’ve discovered that homemade stock or even a good brand of store-bought broth elevates the whole dish. It’s one of those things that makes you go, “Wow, I didn’t realize it could be this good!”
Lastly, don’t rush the cooking time for the dumplings. If you lift the lid too soon, the steam escapes, and they won’t puff up properly. Trust the process and let them do their thing to become perfectly fluffy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake I made in my early attempts was not seasoning enough. Remember, chicken can be bland if it’s not seasoned well, especially in a dish like this. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! (See the next page below to continue…)