Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings with Herb Infusion

This classic recipe for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings combines tender chicken simmered in a rich broth with fluffy dumplings, enhanced by a hint of fresh herbs. The dish is a comforting, hearty meal that balances traditional flavors with a creative twist, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. It respects dietary requirements by being gluten-free when using appropriate flour, and it can be made dairy-free as well.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or dairy-free butter), melted
• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free milk)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine chicken pieces, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and milk until a soft dough forms.
5. Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the simmering broth.
6. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fluffy and cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.