Joanna Gaines Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

Easy Joanna Gaines Chicken And Dumplings Recipe: Homestyle Comfort

Joanna Gaines’s chicken and dumplings represent a nostalgic culinary embrace that warms souls and sparks memories of grandmother’s kitchen.

Southern comfort food transforms ordinary ingredients into something magical and nourishing.

Rich, velvety broth cradles tender meat and pillowy dough in a symphony of rustic flavors.

Hearty and satisfying, this classic recipe speaks to deep-rooted traditions of home cooking.

Generations have treasured similar dishes that connect families through shared meals and love.

Comforting textures and homemade goodness make this recipe a welcome addition to any dinner table: prepare to fall in love.

Why Joanna Gaines’ Chicken & Dumplings Feel Like Home

  • Craft a Cozy Comfort Meal: This Joanna Gaines Chicken and Dumplings recipe transforms simple ingredients into a soul-warming dish that hugs you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need culinary comfort.
  • Enjoy Effortless Gourmet Cooking: With straightforward steps and common kitchen ingredients, home cooks can easily create a restaurant-quality meal that looks and tastes impressively complex without requiring advanced culinary skills.
  • Savor Layered Flavor Dimensions: The recipe builds depth through techniques like browning chicken, sautéing vegetables, and carefully blooming spices, resulting in a rich, harmonious blend of savory chicken, tender vegetables, and pillowy dumplings that dance together in every spoonful.
  • Experience Textural Wonderland: Soft, cloud-like dumplings contrast beautifully with the creamy, hearty soup base and tender chicken pieces, creating a delightful mouthfeel that keeps every bite interesting and satisfying.

What to Get for Chicken & Dumplings

  • Chicken: A hearty, tender protein that forms the main body of the dish, preferably boneless and skinless for easy eating.
  • Chicken Bouillon: Adds deep, rich flavor to enhance the overall savory profile of the soup.
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic mirepoix that provides a flavor foundation with aromatic and sweet undertones.
  • Garlic: Brings a pungent, robust flavor that deepens the soup's complexity.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure for both soup thickening and dumpling creation.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help dumplings rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt, Sugar, Garlic Powder: Seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste profile.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps develop flavor in both soup and dumplings.
  • Half-and-Half, Milk, Sour Cream: Provide creaminess and contribute to the smooth, luxurious texture.
  • Chicken Broth: The foundational liquid that creates the soup's base.
  • Worcestershire Sauce, Hot Sauce: Adds depth and a subtle kick to the overall flavor.
  • Parsley: Fresh herb for garnish that brings a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

Cook Chicken & Dumplings the Joanna Way

Cook Chicken & Dumplings the Joanna Way

Step 1: Craft The Savory Soup Base

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Scrape the bottom to loosen browned bits. Add:
  • Chopped onion
  • Diced carrots
  • Sliced celery stalks

Cook for 5 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and your favorite seasonings. Cook for 1 additional minute.

Step 2: Create A Smooth Soup Texture

Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to coat. Cook while stirring for 2 minutes. Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add half-and-half. Mix in chicken bouillon and frozen peas. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Step 3: Mix Fluffy Dumpling Dough

In a medium bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Sugar

Whisk sour cream, milk, and melted butter into dry ingredients. Fold gently to create dough, avoiding overmixing.

Step 4: Add Chicken And Prepare Dumplings

Return cooked chicken to the soup, including any collected juices. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dumpling dough mounds evenly across soup surface. Gently spoon liquid over each dumpling.

Step 5: Steam Dumplings To Perfection

Cover pot with a tight-fitting lid. Increase heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. Steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Test doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean. If needed, cook for additional minutes.

Step 6: Serve With Delightful Garnish

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve piping hot and enjoy this ultimate comfort meal!

Tips for Rich & Flavorful Dumplings

  • Lock in Flavor with Quick Searing: Brown chicken pieces before simmering to create a rich, deep taste that transforms the entire dish. Caramelized edges capture intense flavor notes that infuse every bite.
  • Prevent Tough Dumplings with Gentle Mixing: Handle dumpling dough delicately, combining ingredients just until they barely come together. Overmixing leads to dense, chewy dumplings that lack the signature light texture.
  • Create Silky Soup by Slow Broth Adding: Introduce liquid gradually while stirring constantly, allowing each splash to integrate smoothly. This technique prevents unwanted lumps and ensures a velvety, consistent base.
  • Master Dumpling Steaming Technique: Keep the lid firmly closed during cooking to trap essential steam. Peeking disrupts the cooking process and can result in unevenly cooked, less fluffy dumplings.
  • Verify Dumpling Perfection with Simple Test: Pierce the center of a dumpling with a toothpick after steaming. A clean toothpick signals perfectly cooked dumplings ready to be served and enjoyed.

Save and Reheat Chicken & Dumplings Right

  • Freezer Method: Package cooled chicken and dumplings in heavy-duty freezer bags or rigid containers with tight-fitting lids. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality. Label each container with the date and contents for easy tracking.
  • Portion Control Method: Divide chicken and dumplings into individual serving sizes before storing. This strategy helps quick reheating and prevents repeatedly thawing the entire batch. Small portions defrost faster and reduce potential bacterial growth.
  • Refrigeration Technique: Store in glass or ceramic containers with secure seals to preserve flavor and prevent cross-contamination. Keep chicken and dumplings in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf. Consume within three days for optimal taste and food safety, checking for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

Different Takes on Joanna’s Dumplings

  • Herb-Infused Haven: Enhance the dumpling dough by adding chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage for an aromatic herbal experience that elevates the classic recipe.
  • Spicy Southern Comfort: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the soup base and sprinkle cayenne pepper into the dumpling mixture for a fiery kick that adds depth and warmth to the traditional dish.
  • Creamy Mushroom Merge: Sauté sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms with the vegetables and add them to the soup, creating an earthy, rich dimension that complements the tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.
  • Mediterranean Spin: Replace half the chicken with tender lamb pieces and add a touch of dried oregano and lemon zest to the dumplings, transforming the classic comfort food with bright Mediterranean flavors.

A Heartwarming End to Chicken & Dumplings

Joanna Gaines’ Chicken and Dumplings embody Southern hospitality with each spoonful of hearty comfort.

Warm chicken nestled among pillowy dumplings whispers stories of family gatherings and cherished moments.

Classic ingredients harmonize into a symphony of rich, soul-satisfying flavors that connect generations.

Homemade goodness radiates from this carefully crafted recipe, inviting companions to gather around the table.

Nourishing ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a culinary experience that feels like a warm embrace.

When you serve this masterpiece, watch loved ones smile, savor each bite, and create memories that linger long after the meal ends – so go ahead, share this recipe, comment with your family’s twist, and spread the delicious love!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Joanna Gaines Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

Joanna Gaines Chicken And Dumplings Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Joanna Gaines’ chicken and dumplings embody comfort from Southern kitchens, offering hearty warmth with tender chicken and pillowy dumplings swimming in rich, creamy broth. Homestyle cooking reaches perfection in this soul-satisfying recipe you’ll crave during chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 lbs (907 grams) bone-in skinless chicken breast or thighs

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 cup (150 grams) carrots, diced
  • 2 sticks celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup (120 grams) frozen peas

Main Cooking and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
  • 5 tablespoons (75 grams) butter
  • ⅓ cup (40 grams) flour
  • 4 ½ cups (1080 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube, optional
  • 1 ½ cups (360 milliliters) half and half
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Frank’s hot sauce)

Seasonings:

  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground sage
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Dumplings:

  • 2 cups (240 grams) cake flour or regular flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/

Instructions

  1. Craft the foundational soup essence by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat, carefully scraping the bottom to release caramelized remnants. Introduce diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes until vegetables soften and become translucent.
  2. Enhance the aromatic profile by incorporating minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and selected seasonings. Allow the ingredients to meld together for one minute, creating a rich flavor base.
  3. Dust the vegetable mixture with all-purpose flour, thoroughly coating each piece to create a thickening agent. Toast the flour for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning and develop a nutty undertone.
  4. Gradually stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Smoothly integrate half-and-half cream, maintaining a consistent stirring motion to ensure a silky texture.
  5. Add chicken bouillon (if desired) and frozen green peas to the developing soup. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
  6. Prepare dumpling mixture by combining flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Create a soft dough by gently folding in sour cream, whole milk, and melted butter, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Reintroduce cooked chicken and its accumulated juices into the simmering soup, ensuring even distribution. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, delicately drop small dumpling portions across the soup’s surface.
  8. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, slightly increasing heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Steam the dumplings for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing them to cook through completely.
  9. Verify dumpling doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should emerge clean. If needed, continue steaming for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  10. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately in warm bowls, offering a comforting and hearty meal perfect for cool evenings.

Notes

  • Seal in Flavor by Searing Chicken First: Browning chicken creates a deep, rich taste that transforms the entire soup. Those golden-brown bits scraped from the pan become liquid gold for your broth.
  • Gentle Mixing Matters Most: Combine dumpling ingredients with a light touch, stopping just when everything blends. Overworking the dough leads to tough, heavy dumplings instead of cloud-like pillows.
  • Steaming Requires Patience: Let dumplings cook undisturbed under a tightly closed lid. Peeking disrupts the delicate cooking process and can prevent perfect texture.
  • Gradual Broth Pouring Prevents Lumps: Slowly incorporate liquid while stirring constantly. This technique ensures a silky-smooth soup without unwanted clumps.
  • Toothpick Test Reveals Perfection: A clean toothpick means your dumplings are cooked through. Extra minutes of steaming guarantee tender, fully-cooked results.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star