Indulge in the comforting embrace of a classic favorite with a Cajun twist: chicken and dumplings. This hearty dish, steeped in Cajun tradition and flavor, offers a symphony of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and pillowy dumplings, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth infused with the bold spices of the Louisiana bayou.
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Picture this: A steaming pot of Cajun chicken and dumplings bubbling on the stove, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of savory spices and comforting homestyle goodness. Each spoonful offers a taste of Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage, inviting you to savor the flavors of the bayou from the comfort of your own home.
What makes this comforting dish so great?
What sets this recipe apart? Allow me to explain:
01. Comfort in Every Bite
This meal is like a warm hug, bringing joy and satisfaction to every spoonful.
02. Simple and Satisfying
With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a meal that anyone can master, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
03. Versatile and Adaptable
Whether you’re craving a nostalgic taste of home or looking to create new culinary memories, chicken and dumplings never disappoint. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch.
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Recipe Tips
Bold Cajun Flavor: For an extra punch of Cajun goodness, don’t be shy with the Tony Chachere’s seasoning. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates this dish from classic to Cajun!
Perfectly Tender Chicken: To ensure your chicken thighs are tender and juicy, simmer them gently in the broth until they’re easily shredded. This slow cooking method infuses the meat with flavor while keeping it succulent.
Fluffy Dumplings Every Time: When adding the dumplings to the pot, make sure they’re only partially submerged in the liquid. This allows them to steam and cook evenly, resulting in fluffy dumplings that are a perfect complement to the savory broth.
More Dinner Recipes:
Cajun Chicken & Dumplings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp garlic minced
- ¼ cup flour
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- Tony Chachere's original seasoning
- Tony Chachere's spice and herb seasoning
Dumpling Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp Tony Chachere's spice and herb seasoning
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken Thighs: Begin by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken thighs with Tony Chachere's original seasoning. Cook them over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side until nicely browned. Next, pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is tender enough to shred. Once done, remove the chicken and broth from the pot.
- Prepare Vegetables: In the same pot, add in the diced celery and carrots, seasoning them with Tony Chachere's spice and herb seasoning. Melt the butter, then add in the minced garlic.
- Make the Base: Whisk in the flour and cook until it turns golden brown, which should take a couple of minutes. Afterward, return the chicken broth and shredded chicken to the pot, stirring well to combine. Pour in the milk and heavy cream. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes.
- Prepare Dumplings: While the base is simmering, prepare the dumplings. Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl, then gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until a dough forms. Shape the dough into dumplings about 1" in size.
- Cook Dumplings: Gently place the dumplings into the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the dumplings to cook through. Serve and enjoy your delicious chicken and dumplings!