Go Back
Anne's Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Anne's Chicken and Dumplings Recipe -Recipes From Chef

There’s something magical about a bowl of chicken and dumplings. It’s not just the flavors; it’s the entire experience. This dish recalls memories of family gatherings, simplicity, and comfort. 
Today, I want to share Anne’s Chicken and Dumplings, a recipe that hits all the right notes. As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I have tested countless variations, yet this one stands out.
Unlike elaborate gourmet dishes that take hours to prepare, this recipe is straightforward. It's a one-pot wonder that brings joy to the table without overwhelming your kitchen. As I guide you through this dish, you will find not only the classic flavors but also some unique twists that make it your own.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 429

Ingredients
  

  • 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
  • 2 ½ to 3 pounds whole chicken, giblets discarded

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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.