BA’s Best Chicken and Dumplings

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Chicken and dumplings. Just hearing those words brings comfort and warmth to our hearts.

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BA’s Best Chicken and Dumplings
Total
50 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. In a large wide pot, add chicken, leek, whole carrot, whole celery stalk, half of onion, garlic, thyme, parsley stems, bay leaf, peppercorns, and 3 quarts of water. Bring to a simmer.

  2. Cook uncovered for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

  3. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it cool until it can be handled. Remove the skin, bones, and excess fat. Shred the meat from the thighs and legs. Cover with foil to keep warm and set aside.

  4. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, discarding the solids.

  5. Wipe out the pot and pour the stock back in. Bring to a simmer and stir in 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of salt.

  6. In a large skillet, heat ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon of schmaltz over medium heat. Cook the chopped carrot, chopped celery, and remaining onion until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. Add ½ cup of flour to the skillet and cook, stirring, until the vegetables are coated, about 1 minute.

  8. Transfer the vegetable mixture into the simmering stock and whisk until the liquid thickens and no lumps remain. Continue to cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

  9. In a separate medium bowl

About this recipe

Chicken and dumplings. Just hearing those words brings comfort and warmth to our hearts. It's the epitome of classic American comfort food. The tender chicken, the fluffy dumplings, and the rich broth all combine to create a dish that warms the soul. So, what makes BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings so special? Let's dive in and find out!

The Perfect Combination

Imagine a dish that combines the heartiness of chicken noodle soup with the pillowy goodness of dumplings. That's exactly what you get with BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings. It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly winter nights or when you need a little extra comfort.

The Secret to Tender Chicken

The key to BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings is using tender, juicy chicken. We start by simmering bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a flavorful broth until they're fall-off-the-bone tender. This not only infuses the broth with incredible flavor but also ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender throughout the cooking process.

Fluffy Dumplings that Melt in Your Mouth

No chicken and dumplings would be complete without, well, the dumplings! BA's Best recipe calls for light and airy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. Made with a simple combination of flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk, these dumplings are the perfect complement to the rich broth and tender chicken.

A Bowl of Comfort

BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a recipe. It's a comforting embrace, a taste of home, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. So, next time you're in need of a little warmth and comfort, whip up a batch of BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings and let it wrap you in its delicious embrace.

Conclusion

BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings is a classic American comfort food that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth, it's a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Whether you're enjoying it on a cozy winter evening or seeking solace in a bowl, BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add extra flavor and moisture, you can definitely use chicken breasts instead. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to use. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before adding them to the simmering broth.

Can I freeze BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings. Simply transfer the cooled leftovers to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I add vegetables to BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings?

Absolutely! BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings is a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or celery to add extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.

Can I use gluten-free flour for the dumplings?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour in the dumpling recipe. Just make sure to use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

While store-bought chicken broth can be used, we highly recommend making your own broth for BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings. Homemade broth adds an extra depth of flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt BA's Best Chicken and Dumplings for the slow cooker. Simply follow the recipe up until the point of adding the dumplings, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and the dumplings are cooked through.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

While you can use vegetable broth as a substitute, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor of the dish. Chicken broth adds a rich and savory taste that complements the chicken and dumplings perfectly.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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