Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty bowl of chicken and dumplings, and the Pioneer Woman’s recipe is one of my favorites.

You sauté seasoned chicken, then combine it with savory vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a flavorful base.

Make sure to brown the chicken well, as this step enriches the broth with deep, delicious flavors.

The dough for the dumplings comes together quickly with basic ingredients.

I love how the dumplings soak up all the goodness, becoming tender and plump as they cook.

Using a bit of cornmeal in the dumpling mix can add a subtle texture that complements the creamy broth beautifully!

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. Chicken (bone-in)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 1 cup Flour
• 1/2 cup Butter
• 1 Onion (diced)
• 2 Carrots (diced)
• 2 ribs Celery (diced)
• 1 tsp Ground Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric
• 6 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose Flour
• 1 tbsp Parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup Cornmeal
• 2 tbsp Chives (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Baking Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 3/4 cup Milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken pieces, then dredge them in flour.

Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Brown the chicken in batches on both sides and set aside on a clean plate.

Step 2:

In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery.

Cook over medium-low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes.

Stir in the ground thyme and turmeric.

Step 3:

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Return the browned chicken to the pot and cover.

Simmer the mixture until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4:

Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the broth.

Stir in the heavy cream.

For the dumplings, whisk the flour, parsley, cornmeal, chives, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.

Add milk and stir to form a batter.

Step 5:

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken mixture.

Partially cover with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes.

Let sit for another 10 minutes off the heat for finishing touches!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs when possible, as they contribute to the overall flavor and aroma of the dish.

Grocery store shortcuts can work, but fresh gets you the best result every time.

Don’t Rush the Dumplings

Take your time to mix the dumpling batter until just combined.

Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings, and no one wants that!

Try Different Herbs

Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage.

They can provide different flavor profiles and add a unique touch to your dish.

Adjust Consistency as Needed

If the broth is too thick for your taste, simply add a little more chicken broth to thin it out.

Sometimes, the adjustment is all about personal preference!

Make it Ahead

This dish can be prepared in advance and tastes even better the next day.

Let the flavors meld together overnight for an extra boost!

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings

Traditional Biscuits

You can’t go wrong with classic biscuits alongside your chicken and dumplings!

These fluffy treats are easy to make and perfect for soaking up any extra soup.

Simply bake them fresh from the oven and serve warm for that homestyle touch.

Southern-Style Collard Greens

Southern-style collard greens bring a slightly spicy and savory note that pairs perfectly with the cozy flavors of chicken and dumplings.

With bacon, onions, and a bit of Cajun seasoning, they add a unique and delicious element to your meal.

Serve them as a complementary side to bring that Southern charm to your table.

Fresh Apple Salad

For something crisp and refreshing, try a fresh apple salad.

The crunchiness of apples and the tangy dressing provide a contrast that’s unexpected yet delightful!

Add some nuts and a bit of cheese to make it a well-rounded side.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Roasted Brussels sprouts with bits of bacon make a flavorful, salty, and slightly sweet side.

These little veggies become caramelized and delicious when roasted, and adding bacon just makes them even better.

They’ll surprise anyone who claims they don’t like Brussels sprouts!

Corn Pudding

Corn pudding offers a sweet and creamy complement to chicken and dumplings.

The custard-like texture carries a mild sweetness that cuts through the richness of the main dish beautifully.

This pairing creates a balanced and enjoyable meal that feels just right.

Variations and Substitutions

Trying different ingredients can bring exciting flavors to your chicken and dumplings, making the dish truly your own!

Chicken Choices

Consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer taste, or rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.

Each offers a different texture and flavor profile, so feel free to experiment.

Vegetable Options

Swap out the traditional diced carrots and celery with mushrooms, peas, or spinach, adding them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

These veggies not only change the flavor but also enhance the dish’s color and nutrition.

Different Dumpling Styles

You can alter the dumpling recipe itself by using gluten-free flour or cornmeal to cater to dietary preferences.

Trying these substitutions can provide a unique texture and taste that you might just fall in love with.

Alternative Liquids

If you’re looking to add depth, replace some of the broth with white wine or apple cider.

These liquids infuse the dish with a subtle complexity that pairs beautifully with the classic ingredients.

Keep it suave yet simple, and let your creativity shine as you make this delicious comfort food your own!

How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Chicken and Dumplings

Refrigeration Tips

Once you’ve finished enjoying your chicken and dumplings, let them cool before storing.

Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Your dish can safely reside in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, so enjoy those leftovers soon!

Freezing for Later

If you’re looking to store your leftovers for more than a few days, freezing is a great option.

Place the cooled chicken and dumplings into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Label the package with the date so that you remember when you stored it.

Important Storage Practices

Always keep your cooled leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer promptly to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.

Another key practice is to divide the dish into smaller portions to speed up cooling and make reheating or thawing easier.

Keeping cooked dishes at room temperature for too long can be risky, so aim to store them within two hours of cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pot

Give your dumplings enough space to rise by avoiding overcrowding.

Cook them in small batches if needed.

This allows them to cook evenly.

Not Browning the Chicken

Brown the chicken separately for rich flavor and color.

Skipping this step means missing out on that hearty taste.

Make sure to brown each side to perfection!

Using the Wrong Flour

Stick with all-purpose flour for the dumplings so they turn out light and fluffy.

Alternative flours can be too dense and affect consistency.

Your dumplings will thank you!