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Cheater Chicken and Dumplings

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This Cheater Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a shortcut version of the beloved comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and pillowy dumplings, this easy dish comes together in no time, without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl with minimal effort!

Ingredients

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For the Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
  • 2 celery stalks (chopped)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Prepare the soup base: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  • Add broth and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked chicken, peas, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop the flavors.
  • Make the dumplings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the milk and melted butter, then stir until just combined. The dough should be thick but scoopable.
  • Add dumplings to soup: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the simmering soup, covering the surface with the dumplings. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through (they should puff up and become firm).
  • Finish the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the soup. Add the half-and-half and stir gently. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley (if desired), and serve hot!

Notes

  • You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
  • If you prefer smaller dumplings, use a teaspoon to drop them into the soup.
  • The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated, but the dumplings are best made fresh.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://deliceflash.com/cheater-chicken-and-dumplings/