Whenever I wasn't feeling well, this recipe was the cure

When the weather turns chilly and you're in need of some warm comfort food, nothing beats the cozy satisfaction of a bowl of chicken and dumplings. This dish has been a favorite in households for generations, with its tender chicken and pillowy dumplings bathing in a savory broth. It's simple, yet deeply satisfying, and has a way of bringing people together at the dinner table. I have fond memories of enjoying this dish with my family growing up, and it's a recipe that has been passed down for generations.

My grandmother made the best chicken and dumplings, and her recipe was cherished by the entire family. I still remember the feeling of anticipation as I watched her prepare this meal in her kitchen, and the joy of sitting down to enjoy it with loved ones. To this day, her recipe remains a favorite in our family, and I'm thrilled to share a simplified version of it with you. I've pared down the ingredients to the essentials, making it easier than ever to prepare this comforting classic. Once you try it, I'm sure it will become a favorite in your household as well.

2 lbs boneless skinless diced chicken
1/2 cup flour
2 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp dried thyme
5 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the dumplings:
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 eggs
2 tsp baking powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup flour in a medium bowl.

2. Brown chicken in 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Set aside.

3. Reduce heat, add remaining oil and butter. Sauté onion for 5 minutes. Add broth, thyme, bay leaves, and chicken. Simmer, then add cream, salt, and pepper.

4. For dumplings: Mix 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, salt. Stir in buttermilk and eggs.

5. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into simmering broth. Cover and simmer 15 minutes until dumplings expand and chicken is cooked. Enjoy!