Anne’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe -Recipes From Chef

When I think about food that warms the heart, Anne’s Chicken and Dumplings comes straight to mind. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day. To complement its rich flavors, you might want to think about pairing it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a refreshing crunch. 

Consider a classic garden salad with a simple vinaigrette or roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs. You could also serve it alongside a tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness of the dumplings.

And let's not forget dessert! A slice of apple pie or a scoop of vanilla ice cream would round off the meal quite nicely.

What is Anne's Chicken and Dumplings?

Anne's Chicken and Dumplings is a well-loved dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy broth combined with fluffy dumplings. It’s hearty and satisfying in the most delightful way. This dish embodies comfort and brings the family together, whether enjoyed on a rainy evening or a cozy Sunday dinner.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine savoring a mouthful of tender chicken, enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, and paired with soft, pillowy dumplings. Each bite bursts with flavor. 

The herbs, including sage and dill, add a warm, aromatic touch. The balance of texture — from the succulent chicken to the light dumplings — is simply irresistible. It’s a taste experience that feels like home.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simplicity: The ingredients are easily accessible and require minimal preparation. You won’t find yourself rushing around the kitchen. Instead, you can focus on enjoying the delightful process of cooking.
• Time-saving: With this recipe, you can have dinner on the table in about an hour. The flavor develops as it cooks, allowing you to put your feet up for a moment while it simmers away.
• Versatility: Whether you are cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in, this recipe scales beautifully. Want to add richness? Toss in a few extra veggies or delicious seasonings.
• Nutritional Balance: This dish combines protein from the chicken with the carbohydrates from the dumplings. The addition of vegetables adds fiber and nutrients. I appreciate a meal that is comforting yet offers a wholesome boost.

Ingredients for Anne's Chicken and Dumplings

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:

• 2 ½ to 3 pounds whole chicken, giblets discarded
• 1 large golden onion, finely chopped
• 2 ribs of celery, thinly sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 can creamy chicken soup
• 1 can creamy celery soup
• 12 ounces frozen Anne's Flat Dumplings (half of a 24-ounce package – 8 sheets)
• 2 teaspoons ground sage
• 2 teaspoons dried dill
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing the whole chicken in a large pot. Fill with enough water to cover it completely. Add the chopped onion, sliced celery, and bay leaves.

Step 2: Simmer the Chicken

Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 40 minutes. This will result in tender chicken that’s infused with the flavors of the vegetables.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

With the heat still on low, stir in the creamy chicken and celery soups. This adds rich flavor and creates a wonderful sauce.

Step 5: Add the Seasonings

Mix in the ground sage, dill, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, letting all the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well to ensure that the chicken is coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 7: Add the Dumplings

Carefully place the frozen dumplings on top of the chicken mixture. Allow the dumplings to steam and cook through for about 15 minutes. No peeking! This helps keep the steam inside.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

After 15 minutes, your delicious chicken and dumplings are ready! Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Perhaps add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra touch of flair.

Notes

• Don’t Overcrowd the Dumplings: When adding the dumplings, ensure they have enough space to steam properly; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for a hint of acidity that brightens the dish.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chicken and fresh vegetables can drastically improve the final dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of spices based on your palate.
• Storage: This dish stores well, but be mindful that dumplings may absorb moisture when reheated.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can stay fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. Alternatively, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for a heartwarming meal on a future busy day.

Sides for Anne's Chicken and Dumplings

• Crusty Bread: A piece of crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up the rich broth.
• Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing balance to the meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: The green color and crunch of broccoli can brighten up the plate, plus it adds more nutrients.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a contrasting texture and flavor that pairs really well with the creamy chicken and dumplings.

What Are Some Alternative Choices to the Ingredients?

• Chicken Options: If you don’t have a whole chicken, consider using rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. The flavors will still shine!
• Soup Bases: You can substitute with homemade cream soups or other condensed soup varieties if you're looking for a different taste.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can replace the dried dill or sage for a new twist on the flavor profile.
• Dumpling Substitutes: If you can’t find Anne’s Flat Dumplings, use biscuit dough or even gnocchi as an alternative.

Conclusion

Anne’s Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of comfort and togetherness. 

With its simple steps and hearty flavors, it fits beautifully into any meal rotation. Trust me, once it's on the table, everyone will be reaching for seconds. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s create something special together.

 Enjoy the laughter, the stories, and, most importantly, the delicious food. You’ll find it to be a recipe you’ll return to time and again!

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