There’s just something about a hearty meal that wraps around you like a warm hug, isn’t there? Whenever the weather turns chilly or life gets a bit hectic, I can’t help but crave my gluten free chicken and dumplings. This dish is a family favorite that I grew up with, and let me tell you, it’s just pure comfort in a bowl! The tender dumplings soaking up that rich, flavorful broth paired with shredded chicken and veggies makes my heart sing. Plus, being gluten free means everyone can enjoy it without worry! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!
Ingredients for Gluten Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach your own. Just make sure it’s tender and juicy for the best flavor!
- 4 cups gluten free chicken broth: Look for a good quality broth for a rich base. Homemade is always a treat if you have the time, but store-bought works perfectly in a pinch.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced: Fresh carrots add a nice sweetness and pop of color. I love using baby carrots for ease—just chop them in half!
- 1 cup celery, chopped: This gives a lovely crunch and aromatic flavor. Don’t skip it, as it really elevates the dish!
- 1 cup onion, diced: Use yellow or white onions for a classic taste. They complement the other veggies beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little goes a long way to enhance the savory flavor! Feel free to use fresh garlic if you prefer that bold taste.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It’s a great way to boost the onion flavor without any extra chopping—so convenient!
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Fresh thyme is lovely, but dried works just as well. It brings a warm, earthy note to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste, especially if your broth is already salted. I usually start with this and add more if needed.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is my favorite for a little kick. Just the right amount to balance the flavors!
- 1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour: Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best dumpling texture. This is essential for keeping the dumplings fluffy!
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This will help the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy—no one wants dense dumplings!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: This one is for the dumpling mixture to ensure they’re flavorful on their own.
- 1/4 cup milk: Any kind of milk works here—dairy or non-dairy. It helps bind the dumpling mixture together.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: This adds richness and flavor to the dumplings. If you want a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based butter!
How to Prepare Gluten Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
First things first, we need to get that broth bubbling with flavor! In a large pot, combine the 4 cups of gluten free chicken broth, 1 cup of sliced carrots, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 cup of diced onion, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. Bring this tasty mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until those veggies are tender and just bursting with flavor. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 2: Make the Dumpling Mixture
While the broth is simmering, let’s whip up the dumpling mixture! In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of gluten free all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix those dry ingredients together until they’re nicely blended. Now, stir in 1/4 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of melted butter until everything is just combined. You want to be gentle here—don’t overwork the dough! A few lumps are totally okay; we want fluffy dumplings, not dense rocks.
Step 3: Cooking the Dumplings
Now for the fun part—cooking those dumplings! Drop spoonfuls of your dumpling mixture into the simmering broth. Be sure to leave some space between them, as they’ll puff up while cooking. Once they’re all in, cover the pot with a lid and resist the urge to peek for 15 minutes! Trust me, lifting the lid will let out all that steam, and we need it to keep those dumplings light and fluffy.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
After the dumplings have cooked for 15 minutes, it’s time to make this dish complete! Carefully lift the lid and stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken into the pot. Give it a gentle mix to combine everything, and let it heat through for another 5 minutes. You want that chicken nice and warm, and the flavors to meld together beautifully. And voilà! Your gluten free chicken and dumplings are ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls, and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a friendly heads up—nutritional information can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use in this gluten free chicken and dumplings recipe. While I’ve provided some typical values below, they’re not set in stone! If you need precise nutritional details for your dietary needs, I recommend checking the labels on your products or using a nutrition calculator. Always better to be safe than sorry, right?
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort! It warms your heart and soothes your soul with every spoonful.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Gluten-Free: Everyone can enjoy this recipe, whether they have dietary restrictions or just prefer gluten-free options.
- Filling: It’s hearty and satisfying, making it a complete meal that keeps you full and happy.
- Satisfying: The tender dumplings and savory broth combine for a dish that’s not just tasty but truly fulfilling. You’ll want to savor every bite!
Tips for Success with Gluten Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Alright, let’s make sure your gluten free chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly every time! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate this dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables. They really enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh thyme is a game-changer if you can find it!
- Check Your Flour: Not all gluten free all-purpose flours are created equal! Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps the dumplings hold together and rise nicely.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your dumpling ingredients, remember—less is more! Overmixing can lead to heavy dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Adjust the Broth: If you like it extra flavorful, feel free to add a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to the broth. It adds a nice depth and brightness!
- Experiment with Herbs: If thyme isn’t your thing, try using rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile. It’s fun to switch things up based on what you have on hand!
- Use a Lid: Remember, keep that pot covered while the dumplings are cooking! Lifting the lid lets the steam escape, which is crucial for fluffy dumplings.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the broth and dumpling mixture ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to cook. This makes dinner even easier on busy nights!
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh. If you’re reheating leftovers, do it gently on the stove to keep the dumplings from getting too soft.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at making gluten free chicken and dumplings that everyone will love. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Gluten Free Chicken and Dumplings
Now that you’ve got your delicious gluten free chicken and dumplings ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this cozy bowl of goodness! Trust me, a few simple sides can elevate your meal even more. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the warmth of the dumplings. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together!
- Crusty Gluten-Free Bread: You can’t go wrong with a slice of warm, crusty gluten-free bread to soak up that rich broth. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans make a lovely, colorful side. They add nutrition and a pop of freshness to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a lovely contrast to the warm, savory dumplings. The crunch and acidity brighten the meal perfectly!
- Mashed Potatoes: If you want to go all out, creamy mashed potatoes can be a fantastic addition. They pair beautifully with the dumplings and broth!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. The goal is to create a comforting, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy your delicious feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! You can store your gluten free chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing it up; this helps keep everything fresh and tasty! I always like to label my containers with the date so I know when I need to enjoy them by.
When it’s time to reheat, the best method is to gently warm it on the stove over medium heat. Just pour the leftovers into a pot and stir occasionally until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll keep those dumplings nice and fluffy instead of turning them into a mushy mess! If it seems a little thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Microwaving is another option, but I recommend doing it in short bursts and stirring in between to ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overdo it, or the dumplings might lose their lovely texture!
Enjoy those cozy leftovers, and trust me, the flavors will still shine through! Happy eating!
Print
Gluten Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for Cozy Nights
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty gluten free chicken and dumplings recipe that is comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups gluten free chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix gluten free flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture into the simmering broth.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and heat through.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: gluten free chicken and dumplings recipe