Apple Cider Chicken ‘n’ Dumplings

Apple Cider Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic chicken and dumplings recipe, perfect for cozy autumn and winter meals. The apple cider adds a sweet and tangy depth to the dish. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
• 2 cups apple cider
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf

For the Dumplings:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chicken:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables start to soften.
   • Stir in the thyme and sage.
3. Deglaze and Simmer:
   • Pour in the apple cider to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
   • Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, and the browned chicken. Bring to a simmer.
   • Reduce heat to low and let it simmer while you make the dumplings.
4. Make the Dumplings:
   • In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and parsley.
   • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Cook the Dumplings:
   • Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering stew. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes or until the dumplings are firm and cooked through.
6. Final Adjustments:
   • Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the apple cider chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

This Apple Cider Chicken and Dumplings recipe combines the warmth of a traditional comfort food with the unique twist of apple cider, making it a delightful dish for colder days. Enjoy!