Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, known for its hearty, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings. Stouffer's offers a convenient frozen version, but how does it compare to a homemade variant? In this blog post, we'll explore the taste, texture, nutritional value, and cost of each option. Plus, I'll provide a delicious homemade recipe for you to try.

Stouffer's Chicken and Dumplings: The Ready-Made Choice

Taste and Texture: Stouffer's Chicken and Dumplings features tender chicken pieces in a creamy sauce with carrots, celery, and fluffy dumplings. The flavor is savory and satisfying, with the chicken being tender and the vegetables adding a nice texture contrast. However, some might find the sauce a bit too salty and the dumplings slightly dense.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 260

• Total Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 6g

• Cholesterol: 40mg

• Sodium: 920mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 26g

• Dietary Fiber: 2g

• Sugars: 4g

• Protein: 12g

Stouffer's Chicken and Dumplings is relatively high in sodium and saturated fat, which can be a concern for those watching their salt and fat intake. The calorie count is moderate, and the protein content is decent for a meal of this type.

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings: The Fresh Alternative

Homemade Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced

• 3 celery stalks, sliced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 2 bay leaves

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 3/4 cup buttermilk

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Stew:

   • In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

   • In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

   • Add carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes.

   • Return the chicken to the pot and add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

2. Thicken the Stew (Optional):

   • If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the pot and cook until the stew thickens, about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Dumplings:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

   • Add buttermilk and melted butter, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

4. Cook the Dumplings:

   • Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering stew. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

5. Serve:

   • Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls, making sure to include plenty of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings.

   • Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 350

• Total Fat: 15g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Cholesterol: 80mg

• Sodium: 580mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 32g

• Dietary Fiber: 3g

• Sugars: 4g

• Protein: 22g

The homemade version provides a more balanced nutritional profile with lower sodium and higher protein. The use of fresh ingredients ensures a healthier overall meal.

The Verdict

Taste and Texture: Stouffer's Chicken and Dumplings offers a convenient and tasty option, but the homemade version excels with its fresh ingredients and customizable flavors. The homemade stew provides a richer, more satisfying texture and flavor profile.

Nutritional Value: While the homemade version is slightly higher in calories and fat, it offers a more balanced nutritional profile with lower sodium and higher protein. The use of fresh ingredients also ensures a healthier overall meal.

Cost: Stouffer's offers convenience at a reasonable price, but making a homemade version can be more economical, especially when cooking for multiple people. Plus, you have control over the quality and quantity of ingredients used.

Convenience: Stouffer's wins for convenience, requiring just a few minutes in the microwave or oven. The homemade version takes more time and effort but rewards with superior taste, texture, and nutritional benefits.

In conclusion, if you're in a rush, Stouffer's Chicken and Dumplings is a decent choice. However, if you have some extra time to spare, the homemade variant offers a more flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying meal. Try the recipe above and experience the difference for yourself!