Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings is the perfect hearty, comforting meal that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful stew, complemented by soft, pillowy dumplings. It’s a dish that satisfies the soul with each bite, offering a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it an ideal option for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings is a delicious and wholesome British-inspired recipe that features chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth made from a variety of vegetables and herbs. The stew is complemented by soft, fluffy dumplings that absorb all the flavors of the stew, creating a satisfying one-pot meal that is as filling as it is flavorful.

It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort to your home, combining slow-cooked chicken with seasonal vegetables like carrots, onions, and peas. The addition of herby dumplings on top makes this dish a complete meal, ideal for warming up on a chilly day.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For the stew:

• Chicken thighs or breasts (boneless and skinless for ease)
• Carrots, peeled and sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Onions, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Bay leaves
• Thyme, fresh or dried
• Chicken stock
• White wine (optional, but it adds depth of flavor)
• Frozen peas
• Olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings:

• Self-raising flour (this ensures the dumplings rise perfectly)
• Cold butter, cut into small cubes
• Baking powder (optional, but helps with fluffiness)
• Milk (for binding the dough)
• Chopped parsley (for flavor and garnish)
• Salt to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the stew
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Chopping board
• Large mixing bowl for preparing the dumpling dough
• Spoon for mixing the dumplings
• Ladle or spoon for serving
• Tea towel (optional, for covering the dumplings while they cook)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings?

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Begin by preparing your vegetables. Peel and slice the carrots, chop the celery and onions, and mince the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks if using chicken breasts or thighs.

2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil. Brown the chicken pieces in batches to develop a rich flavor, then set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the Liquids and Herbs:
   Pour in the chicken stock and white wine (if using). Stir in the bay leaves and thyme, then return the chicken to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let the stew simmer for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

5. Prepare the Dumplings:
   In a large bowl, mix the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add milk and parsley to form a sticky dough.

6. Cook the Dumplings:
   Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the stew, covering the surface. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the dumplings steam for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through.

7. Finish and Serve:
   Once the dumplings are cooked, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken stew and dumplings in bowls, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of both stew and dumplings.

Expert Tips

• For Extra Flavor: If you want a more intense flavor, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown before adding them to the stew. This adds richness to the broth.
• Dumpling Variations: If you like, you can add grated cheese, herbs like rosemary, or even a little bit of mustard to the dumpling dough for extra depth of flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chunks of hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips, and use vegetable stock for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
• Thicker Stew: To make the stew thicker, mash some of the cooked vegetables with a fork before adding the dumplings. This will give the sauce a thicker consistency.
• Dumpling Texture: If the dumplings seem too dry or crumbly, add a little more milk to the mixture, or if they’re too sticky, add a bit more flour.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re looking to feed your family or impress guests with a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

The tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings create a rich and comforting meal that will be enjoyed by all. Follow the steps and expert tips, and you’ll be able to serve up a perfect, hearty meal every time!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and light, fluffy dumplings. While the recipe itself is a crowd-pleaser, it’s versatile enough to be customized with a variety of variations to suit your tastes or to use up ingredients you have at hand. Here are some easy variations to try:

1. Herb Infusions

   • Add different fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or tarragon to infuse more depth and aromatic flavors. You can sprinkle these herbs over the chicken before simmering or add them to the broth.
   • For a twist, try swapping out traditional parsley for fresh basil or oregano in the dumplings.

2. Vegetable Variations

   • While the classic recipe calls for carrots, potatoes, and peas, you can mix it up by adding sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or parsnips. Root vegetables like turnips or rutabaga can add a rustic, earthy flavor.
   • Experiment with adding greens like spinach or kale, which can be stirred in near the end of the cooking time to retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

3. Spice It Up

   • If you’re a fan of spice, you can elevate the dish by adding chili flakes or a bit of fresh ginger to the stew for a zesty kick.
   • A dash of curry powder or garam masala can add a hint of warmth, while smoked paprika gives the stew a subtle smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the dumplings.

4. Chicken Variations

   • Instead of using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, you can opt for chicken breasts or even chicken drumsticks, depending on your preference. Keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
   • You can even swap the chicken for turkey or use a mix of different poultry cuts.

5. Dumpling Variations

   • For a healthier take, you can make the dumplings with whole wheat flour or oat flour instead of white flour, adding a nutty texture to the dish.
   • To make the dumplings richer, consider adding grated cheese like cheddar, parmesan, or a tangy blue cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
   • For a lighter alternative, you can replace the butter in the dumplings with olive oil, or use yogurt for a creamier, tangy effect.

6. Broth Variations

   • If you prefer a richer, creamier stew, add a splash of cream or coconut milk to the broth. For a slightly tangier note, try stirring in a bit of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving.
   • For a more savory broth, consider adding a spoonful of miso paste, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce.

These variations are simple ways to personalize Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings to your liking. The best part is that you can get as creative as you like, adding ingredients that are seasonal or that you have in your pantry, all while retaining the comforting essence of this classic dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Chicken Stew and Dumplings (which, let’s be honest, is often the case with such a hearty meal), proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and safe for later enjoyment. Here’s how to store your leftovers effectively:

1. Cool Before Storing

   • Let the stew cool down to room temperature before refrigerating. Hot food placed directly into the fridge can raise the overall temperature inside, potentially putting other food at risk of spoiling. Aim for cooling the stew within two hours of cooking.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   • For the best results, store the chicken stew and dumplings in airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent odors from other foods in your fridge from seeping in. Glass containers are particularly good for retaining the flavor and quality of the stew.

3. Separate The Dumplings

   • If possible, store the dumplings separately from the stew. The dumplings can become soggy when stored in the liquid for too long. If they are stored separately, they’ll maintain their light, fluffy texture when reheated.

4. Refrigeration

   • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the flavors will start to fade, and the chicken may become dry. Ensure your fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower to keep the stew safe.

5. Freezing For Later

   • Chicken Stew and Dumplings can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the dumplings may lose some of their original texture when reheated. To freeze, place the stew in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Be sure to leave some space for expansion as the liquid freezes.
   • If freezing, make sure to separate the dumplings before freezing, so they can be reheated individually or added to the stew later.

6. Reheating

   • To reheat, thaw frozen stew in the fridge overnight and gently reheat it on the stove over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and avoid burning. If reheating from the fridge, simply heat it on the stovetop until hot.
   • For a quick microwave reheat, place the stew in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely, and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

What Goes Well With Chicken Stew And Dumplings?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings is a complete meal in itself, but there are a few sides and accompaniments that can complement it beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience:

1. Bread

   • A freshly baked crusty bread, such as sourdough or a rustic baguette, is perfect for mopping up the rich, flavorful broth. The bread adds a lovely contrast in texture and makes the meal even more satisfying.

2. Salads

   • A light, crisp salad can provide a refreshing balance to the rich, hearty stew. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness, offering a fresh and crunchy contrast to the soft, comforting stew.
   • Consider a coleslaw made with crunchy cabbage and a tangy dressing to complement the chicken stew’s deep flavors.

3. Roasted Vegetables

   • Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes add a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the stew. The caramelized edges of roasted veggies bring out a deliciously rich flavor profile.

4. Steamed Greens

   • Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or peas are simple but vibrant sides that brighten the plate and balance the heavier elements of the stew. The mild flavors and crisp textures of the greens enhance the meal without overpowering it.

5. Cheese

   • A wedge of tangy blue cheese or a sprinkle of sharp parmesan can be added to the stew or served on the side. It’s a great way to bring a little extra punch to the dish and create a more sophisticated flavor profile.

6. Wine Pairing

   • If you’re looking to elevate the meal with a beverage, a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy textures of the stew. For red wine lovers, a soft Pinot Noir can complement the chicken’s savory richness.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew and Dumplings is a versatile, comforting dish that can easily be adapted to suit your personal taste and dietary preferences. Whether you’re tweaking the recipe with different vegetables, experimenting with spices, or finding new ways to store and reheat leftovers, this dish remains an evergreen favorite in many households.

By adding complementary sides like fresh bread, vibrant salads, or roasted vegetables, you can create a balanced and satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table smiling. With these tips and variations, you can enjoy the delicious warmth of this dish time and time again!.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings Recipe?

The main ingredients include chicken thighs, onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, garlic, fresh thyme, bay leaves, chicken stock, and for the dumplings, flour, baking powder, butter, milk, and fresh parsley.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead Of Chicken Thighs In This Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender, so using breasts may result in a slightly different texture and taste.

How Do I Make The Dumplings For The Stew?

To make the dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Add chilled butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in milk until a dough forms, then shape into small balls and add to the stew to cook.

Can I Prepare The Chicken Stew And Dumplings In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stew and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to make the dumplings fresh, as they can become soggy if stored for too long.

How Long Do The Dumplings Need To Cook In The Stew?

The dumplings should be added to the stew and cooked for about 20-25 minutes, or until they have risen and are cooked through.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then add the ingredients to the slow cooker.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the dumplings about 30 minutes before serving.

What Is The Best Type Of Chicken To Use For This Recipe?

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is recommended for this recipe as they provide the best flavor and moisture. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a leaner option.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew And Dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken stew without the dumplings for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat thoroughly and prepare fresh dumplings to add before serving.

What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Fresh Thyme?

If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute with dried thyme. Use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh thyme, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

How Do I Make The Stew Thicker If It’s Too Runny?

If the stew is too thin, you can make a slurry by mixing a small amount of flour with water and stirring it into the stew. Alternatively, cook the stew uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.