It's been ages since I'd had chicken and dumplings! I know I loved it when my mom made it for us years ago. It crosses my mind every now and then, but I just hadn't ever actually made it for our family. Until now!

I love browsing Pioneer Woman's site (she, dooce & Danette Kay were my inspiration to first pick up a camera almost two years ago) and drool over pretty much every recipe she posts. So when I saw her chicken and dumplings recipe, I figured I'd have to give it a try!

I made a couple of changes, either due to lack of ingredients or forgetfulness.

I only used thigh pieces because it's what I had in the freezer. I didn't dredge them in flour, just seasoned them before browning. I forgot about the olive oil and only used butter, but I don't see that it was a big deal. I used more apple cider and less broth. I didn't use any tumeric, but did use dried thyme (not ground) and rosemary (my favorite!)

It all still turned out heavenly!! I'm not including process pictures because PW's are wonderful, but here it is in the pot:

And on the table

Time for its closeup

And a yummy dumpling!

I do remember that my mom used Bisquick to make chicken and dumplings when I was little and, although I liked them, I know they were chewy and sort of tasteless. I love that, with the addition of cornmeal, that isn't the case with these amazing dumplings! I used to like chicken and dumplings, now I love it! Matt and the boys gobbled it up and we will definitely be making this again soon! It was perfect for a chilly, snowy night.