Low Calorie Southern Chicken And Dumplings With Canned Biscuits For Busy Moms
When life gets busy, it can be hard to put together a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. As a busy mom, you might think that preparing a hearty, comforting dish like Southern chicken and dumplings is out of reach. But what if I told you that you can whip up a delicious low-calorie version using canned biscuits? Yes, you read that right! This recipe is designed to save you time without sacrificing flavor. So, put on your apron and let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.
Recipe Overview
This low calorie Southern chicken and dumplings recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The use of canned biscuits reduces prep time significantly, while still delivering that classic, homemade taste.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuits (use low-fat if desired)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the carrots, celery, thyme, parsley, and black pepper.
- Cover and let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the biscuits according to the package instructions. Cut each biscuit into quarters.
- Add the biscuit pieces to the pot and gently stir to combine. Let the dumplings cook in the broth for another 10-12 minutes until they are fluffy and cooked through.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and heat until warmed through. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Moms
This low calorie Southern chicken and dumplings recipe is a lifesaver for busy moms. It combines convenience with nutrition, allowing you to prepare a comforting meal in just 40 minutes. The use of canned biscuits cuts down on prep time significantly, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family.
Moreover, this recipe is flexible. You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Want to add corn? Go for it. Prefer green beans? Toss them in! This adaptability not only enhances the flavor but also makes it a great way to sneak in extra nutrients.
Health Benefits of This Dish
While the traditional version of chicken and dumplings can be heavy, this low-calorie recipe is lighter without sacrificing flavor. Chicken is a lean source of protein that helps keep you full and satisfied. The addition of vegetables boosts the fiber content, making this dish a wholesome option for your family.
Using low-sodium chicken broth helps to control the salt content, making it a heart-healthy choice. And with the option to use low-fat biscuits, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs. This is comfort food you can feel good about serving.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Dumplings
To make this dish even easier and more flavorful, consider these tips:
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge to make cooking even quicker.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the broth.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker broth, you can whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Just store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and dumplings will keep well for about 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the dumplings and prevent them from becoming too dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to cook it until fully thawed and cooked through before adding the other ingredients.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free biscuits and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and dumplings. Just be aware that the texture of the dumplings may change once thawed and reheated.
Final Thoughts
This low calorie Southern chicken and dumplings recipe is a game changer for busy moms seeking comfort food without the extra calories. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal that your whole family will enjoy. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Get ready to serve up a bowl of warmth and happiness!
