chicken and dumplings

### **Instructions:**

#### 1. **Prepare the Soup:**
In a large pot, heat **olive oil or butter** over medium heat. Add the **onion**, **carrots**, **celery**, and **garlic**. Sauté for about **5 minutes**, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the **chicken broth**, **milk (or cream)**, **thyme**, **parsley**, and a pinch of **salt and pepper** to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for **15 minutes**, allowing the flavors to meld together.

#### 2. **Cook the Chicken:**
While the soup is simmering, season your **chicken** with salt and pepper. You can cook the chicken in the soup by simply adding it whole into the pot, allowing it to simmer for about **10-15 minutes** until fully cooked and tender.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine, and continue simmering the soup while you prepare the dumplings.

#### 3. **Make the Dumpling Batter:**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **salt**, and **sugar** (if using). Add the **milk**, **melted butter**, and **egg**, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and lumpy.

#### 4. **Add the Dumplings:**
Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Be sure to space them out, as the dumplings will expand while cooking.

Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about **15-20 minutes**, or until they are fluffy and cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for the dumplings to rise.

#### 5. **Serve:**
Once the dumplings are cooked, stir the soup gently, and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the chicken, dumplings, and broth into bowls and garnish with **fresh parsley** if desired.

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### **Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings:**

– **For Extra Flavor**: Add a bit of **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, or **lemon juice** to enhance the flavor of the broth. A splash of **white wine** can also elevate the taste.

– **Making it Creamier**: If you prefer a creamier soup, increase the amount of **heavy cream** and reduce the chicken broth slightly. You can also stir in some cream cheese or sour cream for added richness.

– **Veggie Variations**: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like **peas**, **corn**, or **green beans**. These can be added during the simmering phase, just after adding the chicken and broth.

– **Dumpling Texture**: Don’t overmix the dumpling batter. The less you stir, the fluffier the dumplings will be. If you prefer firmer dumplings, you can use less milk in the batter.

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### **Why Chicken and Dumplings is a Must-Try:**

**Chicken and Dumplings** has earned its place as one of the ultimate comfort foods. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, and with its savory broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings, it offers the ultimate feeling of warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress your guests with a homemade meal, this dish brings people together. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple process, this comforting recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

**Give Chicken and Dumplings a try today**—it’s the heartwarming meal you’ve been looking for!