Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken and flavorful dumplings in a rich apple cider-based sauce. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a warm and hearty meal.
Whether you’re a traditional chicken and dumplings fan or looking to switch up your dinner routine, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds. With its unique twist of incorporating apple cider, this dish adds a sweetness and complexity that sets it apart.
Enjoy a bowl of warm and comforting goodness that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
Regarding comfort food, few dishes match chicken and dumplings’ hearty and soul-warming goodness. But why settle for a traditional recipe when you can add a twist of autumn flavors to elevate this classic dish? Introducing Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings—a delightful combination of tender chicken, aromatic cider, and fluffy dumplings that will make your taste buds sing!
For The Chicken’ n’ Dumplings
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | One teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | Two tablespoons |
| Butter | Two tablespoons |
| Apple cider | 2 cups |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Thyme | One teaspoon |
| Parsley | One tablespoon (chopped) |
For The Chicken Stew
This comforting chicken stew provides the robust base for our Apple Cider Chicken’ N’ Dumplings. It’s a rich and flavorful combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and savory broth.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4
- All-purpose flour, 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Apple cider, 2 cups
- Chicken broth, 2 cups
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon (chopped)
For The Dumplings
Now, onto the star of the show—the fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors of the chicken stew. These dumplings are light, pillowy, and the perfect complement to the rich broth.
- All-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (cold, diced)
- Milk: 3/4 cup
- Chives: 1 tablespoon (chopped)
Add a seasonal twist to your chicken and dumplings with this Apple Cider Chicken’ N’ Dumplings recipe. Prepare to be enchanted by the tantalizing aroma, comforting flavors, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s time to cozy up and indulge in a bowl of pure autumn bliss!
Instructions
Discover a delicious Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions to create a hearty and comforting meal. This flavorful dish combines the richness of apple cider with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner.
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients and prepared the necessary tools, it’s time to create these delicious Apple Cider Chicken‘ N’ Dumplings. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to make a hearty and comforting meal that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Preparing The Chicken Stew
You’ll start by preparing the flavorful chicken stew that serves as the base for this dish. Follow these steps:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped carrots to the bank.
- Saute the ingredients until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the pan and cook until it’s no longer pink.
- Pour the apple cider and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms, sage leaves, and thyme sprigs.
- Season the stew with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Let the stew simmer for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Preparing The Dumplings
While the chicken stew is simmering, it’s time to prepare the fluffy dumplings that will soak up all that delicious flavor. Follow these steps:
- Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the milk and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Form the dough into small balls using your hands or a spoon.
- Place the dumplings on a floured surface and set aside.
Combining Stew And Dumplings
Now comes the exciting part: combining the rich chicken stew with the soft and fluffy dumplings. Follow the final steps:
- Retrieve the simmering chicken stew from the stove.
- Gently drop the prepared dumplings into the stew, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the dumplings to cook through.
- Check the dumplings for doneness; they should be light and fluffy.
- Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
- Serve the Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings hot in bowls, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion of stew and dumplings.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness, if desired.
Tips And Variations
When it comes to a comforting and flavorful dish like Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings, tips and variations can take it to the next level. Whether you want to make the best version of this classic recipe or add your own twist, these tips and variations will help you achieve a deliciously satisfying meal.
Tips For Making The Best Apple Cider Chicken’ n’ Dumplings
Follow these expert tips to ensure you create the ultimate Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Starting with fresh, organic chicken and locally pressed apple cider will enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
- Season your chicken: Before cooking, season your chicken pieces with generous salt and pepper. This will add depth of flavor to the finished dish.
- Sear the chicken: Searing the chicken in a hot skillet before adding it to the pot will give it a delicious golden brown crust and lock in the juices.
- Simmer low and slow: To develop rich flavors, simmer the stew on low heat for at least 1 hour, allowing all the ingredients to meld together.
- Adjust the consistency: If your stew is too thin, thicken it by whisking in a slurry of cornstarch and water. If it’s too thick, add more chicken broth until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve it fresh. Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. The dumplings tend to lose their texture if stored for too long.
Variations To Try
Get creative with Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings by experimenting with these delicious variations:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian Option | Swap out the chicken for roasted vegetables like butternut squash, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. The apple cider adds a touch of sweetness that complements the earthy flavors. |
| Herbaceous Twist | Add a fragrant twist by incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage. The aromatic herbs will elevate the overall taste of the dish. |
| Spicy Kick | Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sliced jalapeño to the stew for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The spiciness will provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the apple cider. |
| Cheesy Indulgence | Melt some cheddar or Gruyère cheese into the dumpling batter for a comforting and cheesy twist. The gooey cheese and fluffy dumplings create a heavenly combination. |
Try these tips and variations to elevate your Apple Cider Chicken ‘N’ Dumplings experience and make it a standout dish that will impress your family and friends. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy this classic recipe’s warm and comforting flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Chicken’ n’ Dumplings
Can I Use Boneless Chicken For Apple Cider Chicken’ n’ Dumplings?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
How Do I Make The Dumplings For Apple Cider Chicken’ n’ Dumplings?
Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and milk to make the dumplings until a soft dough forms. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the simmering chicken and broth mixture, then cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
Does This Recipe Require Apple Cider Vinegar?
No, this recipe does not require apple cider vinegar. It uses apple cider, a sweet and tangy beverage made from apples, to flavor the chicken and broth mixture. The apple cider complements the other ingredients and adds a delicious twist to traditional chicken and dumplings.
Conclusion
Enjoy the satisfying flavors of fall with this delicious Apple Cider Chicken’ N’ Dumplings recipe. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a touch of apple cider creates a comforting and savory dish perfect for chilly evenings.
The homemade dumplings add a delightful touch, making every bite a treat. Prepare this easy-to-make recipe and savor the taste of autumn!
