Chicken and Dumplings

Instructions

1. 01

   Note: (Searing the chicken is optional, raw or cooked chicken can be added right to the broth in later steps. Searing first adds a lot of flavor to the soup pot which makes the broth more flavorful. It also adds color and texture to some of the chicken.)

2. 02

   Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a 4 ½-quart soup pot over medium-high heat.

3. 03

   Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes per side, until a little bit of a brown color has developed. The middle will still be uncooked. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces. (Discard the bones.)

4. 04

   Combine the seasonings and set aside.

5. 05

   Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat and use a silicone spatula to “clean” the bottom of the pot. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery and cook for 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1 more minute.

6. 06

   Add the flour and toss to coat. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.

7. 07

   Add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring continuously. Scrape up any remnants from the bottom of the pot as you do so. Add the half and half in the same manner. Add the chicken bouillon, if using.

8. 08

   Add frozen peas. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer, uncovered, while you make the dumplings.

9. 09

   Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and sugar in a medium bowl.

10. 10

    Add the milk, sour cream, and melted butter. Use a folding motion to combine and form a dough, but don’t overmix or they will be dense.

11. 11

    Add the chicken back to the soup along with any juices from the plate. Stir to combine and reduce heat to low. (If using leftover chicken, add it now.)

12. 12

    Use a small cookie scoop and carefully place the dumplings over the soup in an even layer. Spoon a little liquid over each one.

13. 13

    Cover tightly and increase heat slightly to bring it to a gentle simmer. Set a timer for 15 minutes, don’t lift the lid during this time, the dumplings need to steam.

14. 14

    Open the lid and insert a toothpick into the middle of a dumpling to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not, cover and simmer for a few more minutes.

15. 15

    Once the middle is set, garnish with parsley and serve!