Description of this recipe:
This Chicken and Dumplings with Gnocchi recipe elevates the classic comfort food with the addition of pillowy potato gnocchi. It’s a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. Tender chicken pieces, savory vegetables, aromatic herbs, and soft gnocchi simmer together in a creamy, rich broth, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will warm you from the inside out. This recipe is a delightful twist on tradition, offering a unique and delicious experience for your taste buds.
Why you will love this recipe:
You’ll adore this Chicken and Dumplings with Gnocchi for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting and satisfying, providing a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. The use of gnocchi adds a delightful twist to the traditional dumplings, offering a soft and pillowy texture that complements the savory chicken and vegetables. Moreover, the dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of aromatic herbs, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Finally, it’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, providing a delightful and memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3-4 ribs celery, diced
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi*
- 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup half-and-half
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden on the outside. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot, you might need to do this in batches to get a nice sear. Achieving this light golden sear on the outside of the chicken is crucial, since it does more than just improving the color, it also locks in the juices and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables, Garlic, and Spices: Add the diced onion and celery to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. This step is critical for building the foundation of the dish’s flavor. Sautéing the onion and celery until they’re softened releases their natural sweetness and creates a savory base that will complement the other ingredients.
Step 3: Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir and cook for another 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Stir in the mustard and chicken bouillon powder. This step is important, since it helps prevent a raw flour taste in the final product, giving it a smooth and velvety texture.
Step 4: Add the Liquids and Simmer: Gradually stir in the chicken broth until smooth. Add in Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Simmering the mixture allows the flavors to meld together, creating a richer and more complex taste.
Step 5: Add the Gnocchi and Vegetables: Stir in the gnocchi and frozen peas and carrots. Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and float to the surface. Make sure to keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook, since they can become mushy if overcooked.
Step 6: Finish with Half-and-Half: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the half-and-half. This final touch adds a creamy richness to the dish, elevating it from a simple stew to a luxurious and satisfying meal. Be careful not to boil the mixture after adding the half-and-half, since this can cause it to curdle.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Chicken and Dumplings with Gnocchi hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. This dish is also delicious as leftovers, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought.
- If you don’t have half-and-half, you can substitute with whole milk or heavy cream.
- Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, potatoes, or green beans, for a heartier meal.
- Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 450-550 per serving
Protein:
30-40 grams per serving
Sodium:
800-1000mg per serving
Conclusion:
This Chicken and Dumplings with Gnocchi recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. The addition of gnocchi elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness, providing a soft and pillowy texture that complements the savory chicken and vegetables. With its easy preparation, readily available ingredients, and customizable nature, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that will bring joy to your table.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. Thaw the chicken completely before cooking it. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q2: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the gnocchi and half-and-half. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the gnocchi and half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
Q3: Can I substitute the half-and-half with something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute the half-and-half with whole milk, heavy cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may vary depending on the substitution. For a thicker consistency, you can also use a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as mushrooms, potatoes, green beans, corn, or spinach. Add the vegetables along with the frozen peas and carrots for a heartier and more nutritious meal. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are cooked through.
Q5: How can I store leftovers of this dish?
A: To store leftovers of this Chicken and Dumplings with Gnocchi, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out during reheating.
