This creamy chicken and herb dumpling stew offers a comforting meal, perfect for chilly evenings. You’ll find this stew dinner recipe to be a satisfying and easy-to-follow option for a hearty dinner. It’s an ideal choice when you’re craving warmth and rich flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for tenderness, but chicken breast is a lean alternative.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and peas are classic. Feel free to add potatoes or corn for variety.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary elevate the flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but reduce the quantity.
- Cream: Heavy cream creates a luscious texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Dumplings: All-purpose flour is standard. For a whole-wheat option, use half whole-wheat and half all-purpose flour.
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Build the Stew Base
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the cooked chicken to the pot.
4. Prepare the Dumpling Dough
In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
5. Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering stew. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, ensuring the dumplings cook through.
6. Finish the Stew
Stir in the heavy cream, frozen peas, fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through and the stew is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Your delicious stew dinner recipe is now ready.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes along with the carrots and celery for a heartier stew.
- Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the very end for extra greens.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover creamy chicken and herb dumpling stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the stew has thickened too much. Note that dumplings may become softer upon reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the stew portion in a slow cooker for 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. Add the dumplings during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze this stew?
While you can freeze the stew base, the dumplings may become mushy upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What kind of chicken is best for stew?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended because they stay tender and moist during longer cooking times.
How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming tough?
Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough, and make sure not to lift the lid during the 15-minute cooking time for the dumplings.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs when substituting with dried herbs (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried thyme for 1 tablespoon fresh).
Is this a good stew dinner recipe for meal prep?
It can be, but keep in mind the dumplings are best when freshly made. You can prepare the stew base ahead of time and add fresh dumplings when ready to serve.