When you think of comfort food, chicken dumplings often come to mind, but have you considered the variety they offer? From the classic Chicken and Dumplings that warms the soul to the more adventurous Spicy Chicken Dumplings that add a kick, there's something for every palate. You might also appreciate the Creamy Chicken and Herb Dumplings for a rich twist or the Lightened-Up version if you're looking for a healthier option. Curious about how these recipes can transform your meals? Let's investigate the details behind each one.
Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft, fluffy dumplings. This hearty meal is perfect for chilly evenings or when you're in need of some homestyle cooking. The rich, creamy broth is infused with herbs, and the dumplings are light and airy, making it a beloved classic in many households. Follow this recipe to create your own delicious pot of Chicken and Dumplings.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, place the whole chicken and cover it with chicken broth and water. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool.
While the chicken cools, mix the dumpling batter by combining flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
Shred the chicken, discarding the bones and skin, and return the shredded meat to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, cover the pot, and let the dumplings steam for 15-20 minutes until they're fluffy and cooked through.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken in a little oil before adding the broth and vegetables.
You can also customize the dumplings by adding herbs or spices to the batter for an extra kick. If the broth is too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Finally, serve the Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy this classic comfort food!
Spicy Chicken Dumplings
Spicy chicken dumplings are a delightful twist on traditional dumplings, combining tender chicken with a fiery kick of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. These dumplings are perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends and family. Packed with flavor and a hint of heat, they can be served steamed, boiled, or pan-fried to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process of making these scrumptious bites!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped scallions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Dumpling wrappers
- Water for sealing the dumplings
- Optional: cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped scallions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili paste, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
To assemble the dumplings, place about a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of a dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it in half, and press to seal. You can create pleats along the edges for a decorative touch.
Repeat the process until all the filling is used. To cook the dumplings, you can either steam them for about 15 minutes, boil them in salted water for 8-10 minutes, or pan-fry them in a little oil until golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding finely chopped bok choy or mushrooms to the chicken filling. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili paste or substitute it with a sweeter sauce.
When sealing the dumplings, make sure there are no air pockets to prevent them from bursting during cooking. Serve your spicy chicken dumplings with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil for an additional kick.
Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Creamy Chicken and Herb Dumplings
Creamy Chicken and Herb Dumplings is a delightful comfort food that brings together tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and fluffy dumplings all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or any time you need a warm hug in a bowl.
The combination of the savory chicken and the aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering experience that's certain to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish
To prepare the Creamy Chicken and Herb Dumplings, start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for a few minutes before adding the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in the melted butter and milk until a soft dough forms.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering chicken mixture, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
When making Creamy Chicken and Herb Dumplings, it's important to avoid overmixing the dumpling dough to guarantee they turn out fluffy.
You can also customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
For a richer taste, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or chives, and don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness!
Lightened-Up Chicken Dumplings
Lightened-up chicken dumplings are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that allows you to enjoy all the flavor while keeping things healthier. By using lean chicken, whole wheat flour, and fresh vegetables, these dumplings provide a nutritious option that doesn't skimp on taste. The savory filling is wrapped in a light dough, making for a satisfying meal that will please both your palate and your waistline.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, and celery)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to form a soft dough.
In a separate skillet, sauté the diced chicken with a bit of olive oil until cooked through, then add the chopped vegetables and cook until tender.
Stir in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the dough and drop them into the simmering broth, allowing them to cook for about 10 minutes until they're fluffy and cooked through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
To elevate the flavor of your lightened-up chicken dumplings, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture.
You can also experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability.
For a bit of added richness, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without extra calories.
Finally, verify the dough isn't too wet; if it is, gradually add more flour until you achieve the right consistency for easy handling.
Enjoy your healthier take on this comforting dish!
Asian-Inspired Chicken Dumplings
Asian-inspired chicken dumplings are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. These savory pockets filled with seasoned ground chicken and fresh vegetables are often steamed or pan-fried for a crispy exterior. Perfectly suited for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these dumplings aren't only delicious but also fun to make.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can bring a taste of Asia right into your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package dumpling wrappers
- Water for sealing
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped cabbage, grated carrots, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper; mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Take a dumpling wrapper and place about a tablespoon of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water, fold it over to create a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges together to seal.
Repeat this process until all the filling is used. To cook the dumplings, you can either steam them for about 10-12 minutes or pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat until golden brown, adding a splash of water and covering to steam for an additional 5 minutes.
Extra Tips:
For improved flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or chili oil to the filling mixture.
If you want to make the dumplings in advance, you can freeze them before cooking—just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a ziplock bag.
When ready to cook, simply steam or pan-fry them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Serve with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce to amplify the experience!