Calico Chicken and Dumplings
Description:
This hearty stew recipe, affectionately dubbed “Calico Chicken and Dumplings,” is a cherished family tradition that exudes warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Inspired by Grandma’s culinary legacy of Sunday dinners, where Grandpa’s farm-fresh chicken took center stage, this rendition brings forth flavors that evoke nostalgia while introducing a modern twist. Enhanced with vibrant frozen vegetables that not only add a pop of color but also allow for customization according to personal preferences, this dish is a delightful union of wholesome ingredients and homely charm.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this soul-satisfying dish:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 |
| Celery | 2 stalks |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Parsnips | 2 |
| Seasoning salt | 1/2 – 1 tsp |
| Italian parsley | 1/2 cup |
| Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 3/4 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Parsley | 1 tbsp |
| Green onions | 2 |
| Dried thyme | 1/4 tsp |
| Dried marjoram | 1/4 tsp |
| Milk | 2/3 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 848.3
- Fat Content: 38.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 11.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 224.7mg
- Sodium Content: 839.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 67.6g
- Fiber Content: 7.4g
- Sugar Content: 2.3g
- Protein Content: 56.4g
Recipe Yield:
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions.
Cooking Instructions:
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Begin by placing the chicken, celery, onion, parsley, and parsnips in a large Dutch oven. Cover the ingredients with water.
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Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, maintaining a gentle simmer until the chicken is tender.
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Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside in a bowl.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with about 1/2 cup of the chicken broth from the pot until smooth. This will form a thickening agent for the gravy.
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Gradually pour the flour mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously to incorporate it into the broth. Allow the mixture to thicken over medium heat.
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Season the gravy with seasoning salt to your taste preference, ensuring it reaches the desired flavor profile.
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Once the gravy reaches the desired consistency and flavor, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Additionally, add the frozen vegetables to introduce color and vibrancy to the stew.
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While the stew simmers, prepare the dumplings. Begin by sifting together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
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Stir in the parsley, green onions, dried thyme, and dried marjoram, infusing the dumplings with aromatic herbs and flavors.
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In a separate bowl, beat together the milk and egg until well combined. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a fork until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
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Return your attention to the simmering pot of chicken and gravy. Ensure it maintains a gentle simmer.
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Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the stew, distributing them evenly.
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Cover the pot and allow the dumplings to steam for approximately 10 minutes, or until they are fluffy and cooked through.
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If you find yourself with excess dumpling batter, consider making a second batch to accommodate it. However, be mindful not to overcrowd the dumplings in the pot, as they need space to expand during cooking.
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Once the dumplings are cooked and the stew is brimming with comforting aromas, your Calico Chicken and Dumplings are ready to be served piping hot to eager diners craving a taste of home.
Enjoy the heartwarming embrace of this beloved family recipe, where each spoonful offers a journey back to cherished memories and the simple joys of shared meals with loved ones. 🍲🥄
