Chicken Stew and Dumplings…you asked for it!

Ever since I mentioned my chicken and dumplings in my bio I have had requests for the recipe.  This recipe is in no way like the traditional  southern-style chicken and dumplings.  This stew is all about lots and lots of veggies and rich flavor.

You may laugh when you get to the part about the Bisquick dumplings.  I have tried making the dumplings the old fashioned way- from scratch.  ”hockey puck” comes to mind.  Bisquick dumplings are light and fluffy. The only bummer is they are a little tender so they tend not to reheat too well.  As the dumplings steam, never open the lid to check on them or you will have tough dumplings. Some of the dumplings will melt as they cook and thicken the stew.  Delish!

• boneless/skinless chicken breasts 1.5 lbs.
• 3 cartons of chicken stock (I like the Kitchen Basics brand best)
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 bundle of celery- cleaned and chopped including the interior leaves and the heart
• 1 lb. of carrots- peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips- peeled and chopped
• 2 leeks- cleaned and chopped
• 1 lb. red potatoes- cleaned and chopped (leave skins on)
• 2 yellow onions- cleaned and chopped
• 2 tsp. dried thyme
• 2 tsp. rubbed sage
• sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
• Bisquick dumplings- double the recipe and prepare batter according to instructions on the side of the Bisquick box

In a very large soup pot- pour in chicken stock and add the whole chicken breasts, garlic and seasonings.  Allow it to come to a boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer.  Allow the chicken to simmer as you prep vegetables.  Remove the chicken when it is cooked through and set it aside. Add all the vegetables to the stock.  Simmer until vegetables start to soften.  When the chicken has cooled to the touch, shred the chicken into bite sized pieces and return to the pot. Drop prepared Bisquick dumplings batter on to simmering stew. Reduce heat, allow to cook uncovered for 10 minutes.  Cover the pot and cook for 10 minutes more.

Because I am a florist it goes against my nature to post a blog with out a flower picture.  Here ya go:

Image of the lovely Janelle and her bouquet by Discovery Bay Studio