Tender chicken, fluffy homemade dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth filled with carrots and celery. This classic Southern comfort food is warm, hearty, and perfect for a cozy family dinner! ❤️
Ingredients:
For the chicken and broth:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
For the dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 3 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and thyme. Stir for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return it to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the gently simmering broth, leaving a little space between them.
- Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Keep the lid on so the dumplings cook through and become fluffy.
- Check that the dumplings are cooked in the center. Gently stir around them, then serve hot.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid while the dumplings cook. The trapped steam helps them become light and fluffy!