Lunch & Dinner

Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Name: Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 3/4-1 cup buttermilk; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 6 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 bay leaves; 2 carrots, cut into ¼-inch slices; 3 celery stalks, chopped into ¼-inch pieces; 2 leeks, thoroughly washed and thinly sliced; 1 meat Shredded from rotisserie chicken; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Freshly cracked black pepper; Freshly chopped Italian parsley for garnish

Lauren Miller December 30, 2024

Servings: 10 Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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If you’re planning a dinner that features Tad’s chicken and dumplings, you’ll want to think about sides that bring balance to the table.

I recommend a light salad, like a fresh garden salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes dressed in a simple vinaigrette. The crispiness complements the rich dumplings perfectly.

Another great option is garlic bread. A crunchy, buttery slice of garlic bread enhances the comfort of the dish while providing a delightful textural contrast.

Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to munch on bread?

Lastly, for those who enjoy some acidity to cut through the creaminess, consider pickled vegetables. The tang of pickles or pickled peppers offers a bright flavor punch that refreshes the palate between hearty bites of chicken and dumplings.

What is Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings?

Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that has become a personal favorite. The foundation is a rich gravy made from chicken broth, fresh veggies, and rotisserie chicken.

Topped with fluffy dumplings, it’s a complete meal that’s simple to prepare. Each bite offers a nostalgic connection, bringing warmth and comfort, especially on a rainy day.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Rich, Flavorful Gravy
The base of this dish is the gravy, crafted using chicken broth, garlic, and a mix of perfectly cooked vegetables. It’s not just about filling; it’s about depth. The combination creates a seriously satisfying experience that lingers on the palate.

2. Fluffy Dumplings
The dumplings are the stars of the show. Using buttermilk results in a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. They soak up the gravy, making each dumpling a delicious flavor bomb.

3. Versatility
One of the best aspects about Tad’s chicken and dumplings is its adaptability. You can tweak the veggies based on what’s in season or what you have in the fridge. You can also use leftover chicken or other cooked poultry points to create a meal tailored to your situation.

4. Quick and Easy
This recipe harnesses the convenience of rotisserie chicken, significantly reducing cooking time without compromising flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, it offers a delightful solution when you’re pressed for time.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Here’s a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need:

DUMPLINGS:

2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¾ to 1 cup buttermilk (or milk of choice)

GRAVY:

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 cups chicken broth (instead of stock for a lighter taste)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
2 carrots, cut into ¼-inch slices
3 celery stalks, chopped into ¼-inch pieces
2 leeks, thoroughly washed and thinly sliced
Shredded meat from 1 rotisserie chicken
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Freshly cracked black pepper
Freshly chopped Italian parsley for garnish

Tad's Chicken and Dumplings Copycat Recipe

How to Make Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients. Chop the carrots, celery, and leeks. It’s helpful to have everything ready, as this will speed up the cooking process. Preheat your pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Create the Base of the Gravy

Add butter to the pot. Once melted, throw in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute. Next, add the chopped veggies (carrots, celery, and leeks). Cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously to create a roux. This will help thicken your gravy. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the flour to incorporate.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth slowly, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the bay leaves, mustard, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Bring this to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly for about 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

While the gravy simmers, shred your rotisserie chicken. Once shredded, mix it into the pot. This adds richness and flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Make the Dumpling Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined—don’t over-mix. Aim for a slightly lumpy but cohesive dough.

Step 7: Drop the Dumplings

Once the gravy is bubbling, use a spoon to drop blobs of the dough onto the surface. They will rise while cooking, so don’t worry about making them perfectly shaped.

Step 8: Cook

Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 15–20 minutes. The dumplings should have puffed up and be cooked through.

Step 9: Add Cream and Serve

Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream for added richness. Discard the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings. Stir until just combined.
Feel Free to Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Add salt and pepper to your liking.
Utilize Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover chicken from another meal, use it in this dish!
Try Cooking the Dumplings in Broth: If you prefer heartier dumplings, add them directly into simmering broth to cook through.
Add Other Veggies: Feel free to toss in peas or potatoes for extra texture and flavor.

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

You should allow the leftover chicken and dumplings to cool down before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a bowl or warm on the stove with a little added broth to restore creaminess.

What Sides Would Complement Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings?

Fresh Garden Salad
The crunch of fresh greens with a light dressing contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the dumplings.
Roasted Vegetables
Toss some seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until tender. Their natural sweetness adds a delightful balance.
Steamed Asparagus
A bright, flavorful side that’s easy to make. Just steam until tender and drizzle with lemon for that refreshing zest.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Milk Instead of Buttermilk
If you don’t have buttermilk, a mix of regular milk with a splash of vinegar will work just as well.
Any Broth
If chicken broth isn’t on hand, vegetable broth or even beef broth can be swapped in.
Substitute Veggies
Carrots, celery, and leeks can be replaced with whatever you have handy—zucchini or bell peppers are excellent.
Dairy Alternatives
If looking for a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter touch.

Conclusion

Creating Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings feels like crafting a piece of home-cooked nostalgia. Whether you enjoy it alone or share it with family, it offers that warm, cozy feeling we all crave.

This recipe is straightforward and offers room for creativity, making it a staple for any home cook. The beauty of this dish is in its flavors, texture, and versatility. So, fire up that stove, invite your loved ones, and dive into a bowl of comfort that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy!

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Print Recipe

Tad’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

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

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 25 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 388 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

As I sat down at the kitchen table one chilly evening, I was feeling nostalgic. Thoughts of family dinners came flooding back, particularly one dish that always warmed the soul: chicken and dumplings. This meal is a hug in a bowl.

For me, the ultimate version is what I call Tad's Chicken and Dumplings. It combines the richness of hearty chicken, the comfort of fluffy dumplings, and a creamy gravy that ties it all together.

Before jumping into the recipe, let’s explore why this dish holds a special place in my kitchen and how I’m excited to share it with you.