Lunch & Dinner

Pioneer Woman Chicken And Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Name: Pioneer Woman Chicken And Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into sections; ½ cup finely chopped carrots; ½ cup finely chopped celery; 1 medium onion, finely minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tablespoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric; 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper; For the dumplings:; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal; 1 heaping tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt; 1 1/2 cups half-and-half; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt, to taste

Lauren Miller December 11, 2024

Servings: 8 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the delightful world of the Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings recipe, let’s explore some perfect pairings that can enhance this comforting dish. Imagine tucking into a warm bowl of creamy chicken and fluffy dumplings—what could make it even better?

A light, crispy salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate, balancing the rich flavors of the main dish. Additionally, you can never go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread; once you’ve finished the chicken and dumplings, you’ll want something to soak up every last drop of that creamy broth. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, bring a lovely caramelized flavor, with their earthy sweetness beautifully complementing the savory chicken.

Finally, a sweet and tangy fruit compote made with apples, pears, or berries, simply cooked with a bit of sugar and lemon juice, can provide a burst of freshness that rounds out the meal perfectly.

What is Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings?

The Pioneer Woman chicken and dumplings recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, paired with light and airy dumplings that puff up to perfection. This dish thrives on comfort. The recipe features chicken, veggies, and a fragrant broth laden with spices, blanketed under fluffy dumplings.

When pieced together right, this meal becomes more than just ingredients—it’s an experience. It encapsulates nostalgia, warmth, and the joy of cooking for loved ones.

What Does It Taste Like?

This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl. The creamy broth, infused with chicken flavor, dances on your taste buds. Each spoonful combines savory chicken with the delicate fluffiness of the dumplings. The vegetables add a splash of freshness and crunch, rounding out the flavors beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works?

Here’s why the Pioneer Woman’s chicken and dumplings recipe is a crowd-pleaser:

Simplicity
The recipe is straightforward. You don’t need to be a culinary whiz to pull it off. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this dish in your kitchen.
Taste Balancing
The harmonious blend of flavors means every bite is satisfying. The richness of the cream and chicken works perfectly with the lightness of the dumplings. It’s a thoughtful balance that hits the spot.
Versatility
Customize this dish! Feel free to add in vegetables you love or adjust the spice level. The flexibility makes it a family favorite, catering to everyone’s preferences.
Hearty Comfort
There’s something undeniably wholesome about this dish. It brings people together, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it up, and watch everyone eagerly dig in.

Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Let’s gather the essentials:

For the Stew:

1 whole chicken, cut into sections
½ cup finely chopped carrots
½ cup finely chopped celery
1 medium onion, finely minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
½ cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

For the Dumplings:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup yellow cornmeal
1 heaping tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1 ½ cups half-and-half
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt, to taste

Pioneer Woman Chicken And Dumplings Copycat Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to bring your chicken and dumplings to life.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are tender and fragrant about 5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; the aroma will fill your kitchen with a wonderful savoriness.

Next, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Then add them to the pot. Let the chicken brown for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally. This step helps build a rich flavor base for your dish.

Step 2: Make the Base

Once browned, sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, allowing it to cook for a minute or two. This flour will help thicken the stew later. Then, stir in the thyme, turmeric, and minced garlic, allowing the spices to blend and toast slightly.

Step 3: Add Liquid

Slowly pour in the chicken stock, ensuring you scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. All that flavor will contribute to a comforting broth. Following this, add the apple cider vinegar and cream. Stir well, and bring to a gentle boil.

Reducing the heat, cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This lets the chicken cook through and imbues the broth with rich flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter

While the chicken is simmering, mix the dry ingredients for the dumplings in a bowl. Combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and parsley. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and fold gently until just combined.

Step 5: Finish the Simmer

Once the simmering time is up, remove the chicken pieces and shred them into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir in lemon juice, and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Cook the Dumplings

Drop tablespoon-sized dollops of the dumpling batter into the simmering stew. Cover the pot tightly and let them cook for about 15 minutes, untouched. This is critical—lifting the lid can cause the dumplings not to rise properly.

When the timer goes off, remove the lid. You’re greeted with fluffy, glorious dumplings sitting atop the creamy stew!

Notes

Before serving, let’s keep a few tips in mind to make this dish perfect:

Choose the right chicken: A whole chicken infuses the broth with depth. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Don’t skip the resting: Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This enhances flavors and gives time for the dumplings to absorb some broth.
Feel free to modify: Add your favorite veggies. Peas or corn are excellent additions.
Keep it low-sodium: Opting for low-sodium stock gives you more control over the saltiness of your dish.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh adds brightness to the dish. Dried herbs work in a pinch but use fresh when possible.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Cool Down: Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation in the container.
Contain: Use airtight containers to keep them sealed.
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. However, the dumplings may lose some fluffiness when reheating.
Reheat Carefully: When warming leftovers, do so gently on the stove. Add a splash of chicken stock to return some creaminess if it thickens.

Sides for Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Looking for some side dishes to round off your meal? Here are a few ideas!

Steamed Broccoli
This simply seasoned vegetable is easy to whip up. Just steam broccoli until tender, and season with a pinch of salt and olive oil. The bright green color adds vibrancy to your plate.
Cornbread
Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread is a classic companion. It pairs well with chicken and dumplings, allowing you to scoop up the delicious broth.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes bring an indulgent touch to the meal. You can even mix in garlic or cheese for added flavor.
Sautéed Greens

Kale or spinach sautéed with garlic adds a nutritional boost and gorgeous color. Plus, it balances the richness of the main course perfectly.

What Are Some Alternative Choices to the Ingredients in Case They Are Not in Your Pantry?

Sometimes, you need to pivot! Here are alternative choices:

– Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have a whole chicken, use skinless thighs or breasts. Rotisserie chicken can also be a quick fix if you want to save time.

– Broth Variations: Don’t have chicken stock? Vegetable broth works just as well, especially for a lighter option.

– Cream Alternatives: Can’t find heavy cream? Use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

– Flour Alternatives: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, consider using almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for the dumplings.

Best Pioneer Woman Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

Conclusion

There you have it! The Pioneer Woman’s chicken and dumplings recipe is not just a meal but a celebration of comfort food. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth, it speaks to the heart and brings loved ones closer.

With easy steps and some simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that warms the soul. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you as they reach for seconds! So grab your apron and create your flavorful masterpiece. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Pioneer Woman Chicken And Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Author: Lauren Miller Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 689 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

If there’s one thing that can warm a chilly evening or stir up memories of family gatherings, it’s chicken and dumplings. The Pioneer Woman’s recipe for chicken and dumplings hits all the right notes and is a comforting hug in a bowl. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, it embodies what home-cooked comfort food is all about.

And let me tell you, I’m here to share more than just a recipe; I want to take you on a culinary journey that will make you trust this dish and fall in love with it. Get ready as we explore flavors, techniques, and, yes, a little bit of history that underlies this classic recipe. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and embrace the messy, joyful world of cooking!