Discover the comforting flavors of traditional Polish cuisine with this hearty chicken and dumplings recipe. Simple, wholesome, and satisfying, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your home.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Servings: 8
Ingredients for Polish Chicken and Dumplings
For the Broth:
- 1 whole chicken (3 pounds)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 celery stalk with leaves
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (optional)
For the Dumplings:
- 4 eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Directions
Preparing the Chicken and Broth
- Place the chicken, chopped onion, and celery in a large pot.
- Add water until the chicken is fully submerged.
- Season with poultry seasoning, allspice, basil, salt, black pepper, and seasoning salt.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Strain the broth to remove seasonings and any bone fragments.
Enhancing the Broth
- Return the strained broth to the pot.
- Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup (optional) and let it simmer while preparing the dumplings.
Making the Dumplings
- In a medium bowl, combine eggs, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and water. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour while stirring until a thick dough forms.
- Using a spoon and a knife, cut small pieces of dough and drop them into the simmering broth.
- Stir the broth gently, cover, and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes.
Final Touches
- Skin and debone the cooled chicken. Cut the meat into small pieces.
- Add the chicken back into the broth and dumplings.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat everything thoroughly.
Tips for Customizing Your Recipe
- Thicker Broth: Skip the cream of chicken soup and thicken the broth with a roux made of butter and flour.
- Flavor Variations: Substitute cream of celery soup for a lighter flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Add carrots or parsnips for extra nutrients and a hint of sweetness.
Why This Recipe Fits High-Protein Goals
This Polish Chicken and Dumplings recipe is packed with lean protein from the chicken and eggs. It’s a perfect dish for those seeking hearty meals that align with high-protein dietary needs. Pair it with a side salad for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal.