Polish Chicken and Dumplings

Authentic Polish Chicken and Dumplings: A Taste of Tradition

Embark on a culinary journey to Poland with this heartwarming recipe for Polish Chicken and Dumplings. Known for its comforting flavors and rustic charm, this traditional dish has been passed down through generations, bringing families together around the dinner table. With tender chicken, savory dumplings, and aromatic spices, each bite is a taste of Polish hospitality and culinary heritage. Join us as we explore the intricacies of preparing this beloved dish, perfect for cozy dinners and cherished gatherings.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 1 (3 pound) whole chicken

Produce

  • 1 tsp Dried basil
  • 1 stalk Celery
  • 1 Onion

Refrigerated

  • 4 Eggs

Canned Goods

  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can Condensed cream of chicken soup

Baking & Spices

  • 4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Whole allspice
  • 2 tsp Black pepper
  • 3 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Seasoning salt

Oils & Vinegars

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Liquids

  • 2 cups Water

Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

  1. Place the whole chicken in a large pot and cover it with water.
  2. Add diced onion, chopped celery stalk, dried basil, poultry seasoning, whole allspice, black pepper, and salt to the pot.
  3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken meat and discard the bones and skin.

Making the Dumplings

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, eggs, olive oil, salt, and water to form a dough.
  2. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
  3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut it into small squares or strips.

Cooking the Dumplings

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
  3. Remove the cooked dumplings from the pot using a slotted spoon and set them aside.

Assembling the Dish

  1. In a separate pot, heat condensed cream of chicken soup over medium heat until warmed through.
  2. Add the shredded chicken to the pot with the soup and stir to combine.
  3. Gently fold the cooked dumplings into the chicken and soup mixture until evenly distributed.
  4. Allow the dish to simmer for a few minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.

Serving

  1. Serve the Polish Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Shortcut: To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of boiling a whole chicken.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or marjoram for added flavor.
  • Creamy Variation: For a creamier sauce, mix in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the soup mixture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Polish Chicken and Dumplings

  • Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to make the dumplings low in carbs.
  • Use a keto-friendly cream of chicken soup alternative made with almond milk or coconut milk and thickened with xanthan gum.
  • Serve the dish over steamed cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of traditional dumplings.

Low-Carb Polish Chicken and Dumplings

  • Follow the keto version adjustments, focusing on minimizing the carb content while still maintaining the authentic flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of a whole chicken for a quicker cooking time and easier preparation.

Q: Can I freeze Polish Chicken and Dumplings?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Polish Chicken and Dumplings for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook them in boiling water when ready to serve.

Celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Poland with the savory goodness of Polish Chicken and Dumplings. This timeless dish brings together simple ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques to create a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s day or as a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings, Polish Chicken and Dumplings is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and experience the joy of homemade comfort food at its finest!