Homestyle Chicken and Herb Dumplings are the ultimate comfort food. This dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. It's a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay tender and moist during cooking. Chicken broth serves as the base, creating a flavorful soup. The trio of carrots, celery, and onion is a classic combination that adds depth and sweetness. Garlic brings a hint of aromatic warmth. The dried thyme and rosemary infuse the broth with earthy, savory notes. A bit of salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor.
For the dumplings, all-purpose flour provides structure, while baking powder and baking soda ensure they rise well and become light and fluffy. Salt seasons the dough, and parsley adds a fresh, herbal note. Buttermilk makes the dumplings tender and slightly tangy, and unsalted butter enriches the dough, making it melt-in-your-mouth good.
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors nicely.
Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté them for about five minutes. You want them to soften and the onions to turn translucent. Toss in the garlic and stir for another minute until it releases its fragrance.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and nestle the chicken thighs into the pot. Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
While the soup simmers, prepare your dumplings. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the chopped parsley, then pour in the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms; it will be sticky, and that’s just right.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough directly into the simmering pot. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. They’ll puff up beautifully and should be cooked through. Finally, stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.