Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings📝 IngredientsFor the Chicken Stew:2 tablespoons butter1 small onion, chopped2 carrots, sliced2 celery stalks, sliced3 cloves garlic, minced3 tablespoons all-purpose flour4 cups chicken broth1 cup milk or heavy cream2 cups cooked shredded chicken1 cup frozen peas (optional)1 teaspoon dried thyme1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)½ teaspoon black pepperFor the Dumplings:2 cups all-purpose flour1 tablespoon baking powder1 teaspoon salt2 tablespoons butter, melted1 cup milk👩‍🍳 Instructions1️⃣ Prepare the StewIn a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.Add milk or cream and bring to a gentle simmer.Stir in shredded chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.2️⃣ Make the DumplingsIn a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined (do not overmix).3️⃣ Cook the DumplingsDrop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly onto the simmering stew.Cover the pot with a lid.Reduce heat to low and cook for 15–20 minutes.❗ Do not lift the lid while cooking (steam cooks the dumplings).✅ Ready to Serve!The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through.Serve hot and enjoy this warm, comforting dish ❤️