Polish Chicken and Dumplings

Why Make This Recipe

Polish Chicken and Dumplings is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken and soft dumplings in a rich broth. It’s perfect for family dinners or chilly weather, and it can easily feed a crowd. The simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process make it an ideal choice for home cooks looking for a hearty meal that pleases everyone at the table.

How to Make Polish Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (3 pounds)
1 onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, with leaves
1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon whole allspice
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (optional)
4 eggs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups water
4 cups all-purpose flour

Directions

Place the chicken, onion, and celery in a large pot. Fill the pot with water and season with poultry seasoning, whole allspice, basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, and seasoning salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked.
Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool. Strain the broth to remove the seasonings and any bones. Return the broth to the pot and stir in the cream of chicken soup (if using). Continue to simmer.
In a medium bowl, mix together the eggs, olive oil, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, and 2 cups of water. Gradually add the flour, stirring to make a thick dough.
Using a large spoon and knife, scoop a spoonful of dough and cut small pieces into the broth. Repeat with the remaining dough. Stir, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, skin and debone the chicken. Cut the meat into small pieces and add it back to the broth. Heat through.
Optional: You can use cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken soup or thicken the broth with a little flour if desired.

How to Serve Polish Chicken and Dumplings

Serve Polish Chicken and Dumplings hot in deep bowls. You can add some fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and presentation. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.

How to Store Polish Chicken and Dumplings

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken and dumplings in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Polish Chicken and Dumplings

Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor.
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it is manageable.

Variation

You can change the type of soup used in the recipe. Instead of cream of chicken soup, you could use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to give it a different taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind that they may not provide as much flavor to the broth.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Polish Chicken and Dumplings. Just be sure to let it cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.