High Protein Chicken And Dumplings With Rotisserie Chicken For Clean Eating
Are you craving a comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings but want to keep it clean and high in protein? Look no further! This recipe features rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender dumplings and a rich, creamy broth, all while staying true to your clean eating goals.
Chicken and dumplings are a classic comfort food, but they can often be loaded with unnecessary calories and unhealthy ingredients. By using rotisserie chicken and incorporating wholesome ingredients, this recipe transforms a traditional dish into a clean eating delight. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious meal!
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened)
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped carrots and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and almond milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- While the broth is heating, prepare the dumplings. In a medium bowl, mix together whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
- Add ¾ cup of water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Once the broth is simmering, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the pot. Be sure to leave some space between each dumpling as they will expand while cooking.
- Cover the pot with a lid and allow the dumplings to cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- After 15 minutes, gently stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy your high protein chicken and dumplings!
Why Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Using rotisserie chicken in this recipe not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor that can be hard to achieve with raw chicken. The chicken is already cooked, juicy, and seasoned, which allows you to focus on building a rich broth and fluffy dumplings. This method also makes clean-up easier, giving you more time to enjoy your meal.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This high protein chicken and dumplings recipe is packed with nutrients. The rotisserie chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The inclusion of vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish not only filling but also nutritious.
Additionally, using whole wheat flour for the dumplings increases the fiber content compared to traditional white flour, promoting better digestion and sustained energy levels. By opting for almond milk instead of heavy cream, you cut down on calories and saturated fats while still achieving a creamy texture.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This chicken and dumplings recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can easily double the ingredients and store leftovers in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a perfect dish to enjoy over several days.
Storing and Reheating
To store, let the chicken and dumplings cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or almond milk to prevent the dumplings from becoming too dry. Warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Common Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable based on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:
- Herb Variations: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other veggies like corn, green beans, or even spinach for added nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you will need to cook it first before shredding. This will require additional time compared to using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply use almond milk or any other plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. The recipe is already free from dairy ingredients.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the dumplings may change after freezing and reheating.
4. What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This high protein chicken and dumplings with rotisserie chicken is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a meal that supports your clean eating goals while satisfying your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy every delicious bite!
