The Classic Comfort Barefoot Contessa Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Chicken and Dumplings represent the ultimate comfort food for those craving a soul-warming culinary experience.

Southern-style cooking meets elegant simplicity in this classic recipe that transforms humble ingredients into something magical.

Hearty and nostalgic, these dumplings embrace tender chicken within a luxurious, velvety broth that feels like a warm hug.

Soft, pillowy dough nestles against succulent meat, creating layers of rich flavor and comforting texture.

The combination balances rustic charm with sophisticated cooking techniques that elevate home-style meals.

Recipes like these connect generations through shared memories and delicious traditions.

Prepare to fall in love with a dish that promises pure, uncomplicated deliciousness: Bon appétit!

Why Chicken and Dumplings Brings Back Memories

• Craft Comfort in a Pot: This chicken and dumplings recipe transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal that wraps you in pure culinary comfort.
• Elevate Everyday Ingredients: By layering flavors through careful cooking techniques like sautéing vegetables, deglazing with wine, and creating a silky sauce, ordinary chicken becomes an extraordinary dining experience.
• Master One-Pot Convenience: The entire dish comes together in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor development, making it perfect for busy home cooks seeking delicious yet uncomplicated meals.
• Customize with Seasonal Touches: While the recipe offers a classic approach, home cooks can easily adapt the dish by adding different herbs, swapping vegetables, or adjusting spice levels to suit personal preferences and seasonal availability.

Ingredients That Build a Bowl of Southern Love

• Chicken: Tender, juicy protein that makes the main body of the dish, best when fresh and bone-in for maximum flavor.

• Carrots, Celery, Onion: Classic mirepoix blend that provides depth and sweet undertones to the dish, fresh and crisp vegetables recommended.
• Garlic: Adds robust, pungent flavor to enhance the overall taste profile, choose firm and plump cloves.
• Thyme: Earthy herb that brings subtle woody notes, fresh sprigs offer best aromatic quality.
• Parsley: Bright green herb for fresh finish and visual appeal, flat-leaf variety preferred for stronger taste.
• Peas: Sweet and tender vegetable that adds color and light freshness to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Base for sautéing vegetables, choose extra virgin for richer flavor.
• Wine: Adds depth and acidity to the sauce, dry white wine works best.
• Butter: Provides richness and smooth texture, unsalted preferred for better control of saltiness.
• Flour: Thickening agent that creates smooth sauce base, all-purpose works perfectly.
• Milk: Helps create creamy consistency, whole milk recommended for fuller flavor.
• Chicken Stock: Foundation of the sauce, homemade stock offers superior taste.

• Flour: Structural component for dumplings, all-purpose flour ideal.
• Baking Powder: Leavening agent that helps dumplings rise and become fluffy.
• Garlic Salt: Adds seasoning and extra flavor to dumplings.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced taste throughout the dish.

Chicken and Dumplings the Classic Cozy Way

Step 1: Sauté Veggie Base

• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook while stirring occasionally until vegetables start to soften, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Enhance Aromatic Flavors

Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking for one minute until fragrant and releasing their delightful scents.

Step 3: Introduce Liquid Harmony

Pour wine into the pot and let it simmer, allowing the liquid to reduce. Stir in butter until completely melted and incorporated.

Step 4: Create Creamy Base

Sprinkle flour over vegetables and mix until a sandy texture forms. Slowly pour milk, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Build Flavor Foundation

Add chicken and homemade chicken stock to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Add Final Touch of Freshness

Stir in fresh parsley and sweet green peas. Remove from heat.

Step 7: Prepare Fluffy Dumplings

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Garlic salt
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir in melted butter until just mixed. Gradually add milk and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 8: Shape Dumpling Clouds

Using an ice cream scoop, create 10 round dough balls and gently place them on top of the chicken mixture.

Step 9: Steam Dumplings to Perfection

Cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes. Dumplings are ready when they puff up and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the warm, comforting mixture into bowls. Garnish with extra fresh parsley. Serve immediately and savor every delicious spoonful.

Sweet Tips for a Better Biscuit-Top Finish

• Choose Tender Thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs to guarantee a succulent and moist final dish that won't dry out during simmering.
• Slow and Steady Wins: Gently simmer the chicken on low heat, allowing flavors to meld and develop deeply without rushing the cooking process.
• Handle Dumpling Dough Delicately: Mix the dumpling ingredients minimally, stirring just until combined to ensure light, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Stock up on Flavor: Homemade chicken stock elevates this comfort classic, providing a richer, more complex taste compared to store-bought alternatives.
• Season with Precision: Taste and adjust seasoning right before serving, adding salt and pepper to bring out the ultimate flavor profile of this comforting meal.

How to Store Dumplings Without the Mush

• Freezing Method: Portion leftover chicken and dumplings into individual freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly with airtight lids to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor intensity. Label containers with date and contents for easy tracking and optimal freshness.
• Refrigeration Method: Store cooled chicken and dumplings in glass or ceramic containers with secure lids. Place in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf. Consume within 3 days for best taste and texture quality.
• Reheating Method: Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Splash extra chicken stock or cream to revive moisture and restore creamy consistency. Stir carefully to prevent dumpling breakdown and maintain delicate texture.

Mix In Some Magic with These Dumpling Tweaks

• Rustic Mediterranean Spin: Replace chicken with tender lamb chunks, swap thyme for rosemary, and add crumbled feta cheese on top for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Incorporate diced jalapeños, use chili powder instead of thyme, add corn kernels, and top with shredded pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Veggie Lover's Adaptation: Substitute chicken with hearty mushrooms, root vegetables, and plant-based protein like tofu, using vegetable stock and maintaining the creamy dumpling texture for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
• Creamy Seafood Version: Switch chicken with succulent shrimp or white fish, use white wine, incorporate fresh dill, and create lighter, herbed dumplings for an elegant seafood transformation.

One Last Spoonful of Comfort and Nostalgia

Barefoot Contessa’s chicken and dumplings embody pure comfort cuisine from classic American kitchens.

Hearty ingredients blend together, creating a nostalgic symphony of flavor and warmth.

Delicate dumplings nestle alongside tender chicken pieces, promising satisfaction in each spoonful.

Rich herbal notes dance through creamy sauce, elevating this humble dish into gourmet territory.

Generations of home cooks have cherished similar recipes, passing down culinary traditions with love.

When plated, this recipe whispers stories of family gatherings and winter evenings – calling you to savor, share on social media, comment with memories, and spread deliciousness through passionate recommendation.

Barefoot Contessa Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Barefoot Contessa’s chicken and dumplings offer comfort straight from an American kitchen, blending tender chicken with pillowy dough in a creamy, herb-infused broth. Hearty ingredients create a soul-warming meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 680g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) pieces
• 140g frozen peas

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 3 medium carrots, halved lengthwise, sliced 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) thick
• 2 celery stalks, sliced 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) thick
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• ¼ cup (15g) fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped, plus more for serving

Liquids, Fats, and Dry Ingredients:

• 30 ml (1 fluid ounce) olive oil
• 240 ml (8 fluid ounces) dry white wine
• 60 g (2.1 ounces) unsalted butter
• 60 g (2.1 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 120 ml (4 fluid ounces) whole milk
• 1.1 litres (37 fluid ounces) homemade chicken stock
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Dough Ingredients:

• 220 g (7.8 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 15 g (0.5 ounces) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 30 g (1 ounce) unsalted butter, melted
• 240 ml (

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Initiate vegetable sautéing by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Introduce diced carrots, celery, and onion with salt and ground black pepper. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables soften without browning.
2. Incorporate minced garlic and fresh thyme, stirring for an additional minute to release aromatic flavors.
3. Deglaze the pot with white wine, allowing liquid to simmer and reduce for 4 to 5 minutes. Swirl in unsalted butter until completely melted and integrated.
4. Dust vegetables with all-purpose flour, creating a sandy textured roux. Gradually stream in whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and ensure smooth consistency.
5. Introduce chicken pieces and homemade chicken stock to the vegetable base. Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
6. Fold in fresh chopped parsley and frozen green peas. Remove from heat, allowing residual warmth to gently warm the peas.
7. Prepare dumpling mixture by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic salt, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a mixing bowl. Integrate melted butter until just combined.
8. Gradually add whole milk to flour mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms. Use a small ice cream scoop or to portion 10 uniform dumpling balls.
9. Carefully drop dumpling portions into simmering chicken mixture. Cover pot and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until dumplings expand and a toothpick inserted emerges clean.
10. Ladle chicken and dumplings into serving bowls. Garnish with additional fresh parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Opt for tender chicken thighs instead of breasts to guarantee a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth texture without drying out during cooking.
• Create depth by simmering chicken slowly, allowing flavors to mingle and develop a rich, comforting profile throughout the dish.
• Craft delicate dumplings by mixing minimally, ensuring a light, airy consistency that melts perfectly in your mouth.
• Elevate the broth’s complexity by utilizing homemade chicken stock, which transforms the entire dish with its robust, nuanced flavor layers.
• Personalize the final taste by carefully seasoning at the last moment, giving you complete control over the dish’s ultimate flavor balance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 339
• Sugar: 3.2g
• Sodium: 817mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7.7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5.8g
• Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 102mg