Chicken And Dumplings Recipe: Quick Comfort Food for Busy Nights
This dish stands out for being straightforward and quick to prepare. Using pre-cooked chicken and store-bought biscuit dough, you save time without sacrificing flavor. Fewer steps mean less time in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy the meal sooner. The recipe also involves common pantry staples, making it accessible.
Key Ingredients Spotlight
Several ingredients play a crucial role in this dish:
- Chicken: Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken adds convenience.
- Biscuit Dough: Store-bought biscuit dough ensures fluffy dumplings without extensive preparation.
- Chicken Broth: A savory base tying all flavors together.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions provide nutrition and texture.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs enhance the overall taste.
Each component contributes to the recipe’s ease and flavor, making it both simple and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Chicken
Shred pre-cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring an even distribution in the dish. Using approximately 2 cups of chicken, place it into a large pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth to cover the chicken. Keep the heat at medium to low during this step to maintain moisture and tenderness. Stir occasionally to blend the flavors.
Making the Dumplings
Cut refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters to create uniform pieces. For this recipe, use one can of biscuit dough. Drop the dough pieces into the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in the broth. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Avoid stirring too often, as this can break the dumplings.
Nutritional Information
Health Benefits Of Key Ingredients
Chicken offers a lean source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair. Protein helps you feel full, reducing overall calorie intake. Store-bought biscuit dough is convenient but try to choose a brand free from trans fats. Chicken broth, often rich in collagen, aids joint health and digestion. Vegetables (carrots, celery) in this recipe are packed with vitamins and fiber, promoting overall health. Seasonings like parsley and thyme not only enhance flavor but also provide antioxidants.
Caloric And Macronutrient Breakdown
Understanding the nutritional value of each component can help you maintain a balanced diet. Here is a basic breakdown for a serving size (approximately 1 cup) of chicken and dumplings:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
This breakdown can vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes. Adjust the recipe to align with dietary needs by modifying ingredient quantities.
Variations and Customizations
Dietary Adjustments
Adapt the Super Easy Chicken And Dumplings recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions. For gluten-free diets, use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free. Replace regular chicken with a plant-based alternative like tofu for a vegetarian version. Keto-friendly changes include using almond flour-based biscuits and substituting carrots and peas with low-carb vegetables like zucchini and spinach. Modify the recipe to suit your needs without compromising taste.
Flavor Enhancements
Enhance the flavor of your chicken and dumplings with these tweaks. Introduce fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the broth for a fragrant aroma. Add garlic and onion powder for an extra layer of seasoning. To elevate the dish’s richness, incorporate a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter. For a spicy kick, mix in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños. Personalize the dish to suit your palate and ensure a delightful meal each time.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Side Dishes
Pairing your Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings with the right side dishes enhances the meal. Consider adding a fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette. The acidity balances the creamy dumplings, offering a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus provide both texture and nutrition. Cornbread or garlic bread complements the dish by adding a crunchy element. Lastly, consider a side of steamed rice if you prefer extra carbs.
Tips for Presentation
Presenting Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings attractively makes the dish more inviting. Serve it in deep bowls to keep the broth warm and contained. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add color and a hint of herbaceous flavor. Place a small plate of lemon wedges on the table to let guests add a splash of acidity if desired. For a more elegant touch, use rustic, earthenware dishes which enhance the comfort-food appeal of your meal.
Conclusion
Creating Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By leveraging pre-cooked chicken and store-bought biscuit dough, you can whip up a comforting meal in no time. This recipe offers not only convenience but also nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome choice for any day of the week.
Feel free to experiment with variations and customizations to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences. Whether you’re adding a touch of cream or opting for a gluten-free version, the possibilities are endless. Pair your dish with recommended sides and follow presentation tips to elevate your dining experience.
Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of this classic comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
