Healthy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A Comforting and Nutritious Delight

Introduction

In the world of comfort food, few dishes evoke nostalgia and warmth quite like chicken and dumplings. This timeless classic, cherished by generations, has been reimagined into a healthier version that retains all the flavor and comfort. In this article, we will explore how to make a healthy chicken and dumplings recipe that is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Why Choose a Healthy Version?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s understand why opting for a healthier chicken and dumplings recipe is a great idea.

1. Health Benefits

Traditional chicken and dumplings can be high in calories and unhealthy fats. By making a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free.

2. Dietary Restrictions

Many people have dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance or a desire to reduce meat consumption. This recipe offers variations to cater to different dietary needs.

Ingredients

Let’s start by gathering the essential ingredients for our healthy chicken and dumplings:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking:

Preparing the Chicken Stew:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add chicken breasts to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add carrots, celery, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Making the Dumplings:

1. While the stew is simmering, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add almond milk and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until you have a soft dough.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
4. Drop the dumplings into the simmering stew, cover the pot, and let them cook for 15-20 minutes. They will puff up and become fluffy.

Serving Your Healthy Chicken and Dumplings:

Once your dumplings are cooked and the stew is flavorful, it’s time to serve this delightful dish. Ladle the chicken stew into bowls, making sure to include a generous serving of dumplings in each portion. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this healthy chicken and dumplings recipe allows you to indulge in the comforting flavors of a beloved classic while keeping your health and dietary preferences in mind. With wholesome ingredients and a few smart substitutions, you can savor the rich taste of chicken and dumplings without any guilt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of flour for the dumplings? Absolutely! You can experiment with various flours like whole wheat, all-purpose, or even gluten-free options, depending on your dietary needs.
2. Can I use bone-in chicken for more flavor? Certainly! Bone-in chicken can add extra flavor to the stew, but remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Are there vegetarian alternatives to chicken in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
4. Can I freeze leftover chicken and dumplings? Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw and reheat them properly.
5. What other vegetables can I add to the stew? Feel free to get creative with vegetables. Peas, green beans, or mushrooms can be great additions to the stew.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of healthy chicken and dumplings that will warm your heart and nourish your body.

Source: supergoldenbakes.com

Yield: 6

One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake Recipe

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Who doesn’t love a comforting, cheesy dish that comes together in just one skillet? This One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. With tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, this recipe is a hit for both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delectable dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup roughly chopped mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 pound dry orzo pasta (use gluten free, if needed)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus more for topping
• 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine such, as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper more or less to taste
• zest of 1/2 a lemon
• 1/2 cup whole milk or canned coconut milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated asiago or manchego cheese
• fresh basil, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. 
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the onion and cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened, 2-3 minutes. Add the butter, orzo, broccoli, and thyme, and cook until golden and toasted, 5 minutes. Add the wine, broth, bay leaf, garlic powder, cayenne, and a large pinch each of salt and pepper. Simmer 8-10 minutes until the orzo is al dente, stirring often.
3. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the lemon zest, milk, and 1/2 cup of the cheddar. If needed, transfer the orzo to an oven-safe casserole dish. Scatter the remaining cheeses overtop of the casserole. 
4. Transfer to the oven and bake 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Switch the oven to broil and broil 1-2 minutes, until the cheese on top is becoming crispy. Serve warm with fresh thyme and basil.