Delicious Chicken And Dumplings Without Cream Of Chicken Soup

Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that many people love, but for those looking to avoid cream of chicken soup, there are plenty of delicious alternatives. This article will guide you through preparing a scrumptious chicken and dumplings dish that is both satisfying and easy to make without relying on canned soups. With fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can recreate this timeless dish in a way that's healthier and just as satisfying.

In this guide, we will explore the essential ingredients, techniques, and variations for making chicken and dumplings that don’t use cream of chicken soup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. We’ll also discuss some tips for ensuring your dumplings are fluffy and flavorful, as well as providing some nutritional insights along the way.

So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of chicken and dumplings without cream of chicken soup, and discover how to create a dish that not only warms the heart but also nourishes the body.

Table of Contents

• Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
• Preparation Steps
• Making the Perfect Dumplings
• Variations on Chicken and Dumplings
• Nutritional Information
• Tips for Success
• Common Questions
• Conclusion

Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

To make chicken and dumplings without cream of chicken soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 4 cups of chicken broth or stock
• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and celery)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt for the dumplings
• 1 cup of milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted

Preparation Steps

Preparing chicken and dumplings without cream of chicken soup involves a few straightforward steps:

1. Start by cooking the chicken. In a large pot, add the chicken and cover it with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, along with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture back to a simmer.

Making the Perfect Dumplings

Dumplings are the star of this dish. Here’s how to make them without cream of chicken soup:

1. In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
3. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering chicken and vegetable mixture.
4. Cover the pot and allow the dumplings to steam for about 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time!

Variations on Chicken and Dumplings

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you can try:

• Herb Dumplings: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the dumpling batter for added flavor.
• Cheesy Dumplings: Incorporate shredded cheese into the dumpling mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth instead.

Nutritional Information

This chicken and dumplings recipe is not only comforting but also offers a balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional components:

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 5g

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• Use homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dumpling batter; a few lumps are okay.
• Feel free to add additional spices or vegetables according to your taste.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken the sauce before serving.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to extend the cooking time until the chicken is fully cooked.

What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time. Just add the dumplings right before serving.

Is it possible to freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the dish, although the dumplings may lose some texture when reheated. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In summary, making chicken and dumplings without cream of chicken soup is not only possible but also delicious! With fresh ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. We encourage you to share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below, and feel free to share this recipe with friends and family!

Thank you for reading, and we hope you come back to our site for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!