Chicken in sauce and cheese dumplings

Chicken in sauce with potato dumplings filled with cheese – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of dumplings is fascinating, as they are a dish that has crossed generations and cultures. Originally, they were cooked in various ways, but today we focus on a savory version filled with cheese and served alongside chicken in sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also an excellent alternative to bread, due to its consistent texture and enticing flavors.

Ingredients:

For chicken in sauce:
- 600 g chicken meat (half a chicken, thighs, breast, or wings)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 300 ml broth
- 2-3 tablespoons ketchup
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, sliced
- 1 teaspoon seasoning base
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Spices: oregano, marjoram, pepper, bay leaves, thyme, salt to taste

For potato dumplings:
- 500 g white potatoes (about 3-4 pieces)
- 3 heaping tablespoons of flour (reserve one teaspoon for the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 50 g cheese, diced
- 1-2 chili peppers (optional, for a spicier taste)
- a few sprigs of parsley or celery for garnish

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the meat into larger pieces and place it in a heated pan with oil over low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and soft, about 5 minutes.

2. Season with the seasoning base, salt, and pepper, mixing well. When the meat turns white on all sides, add the ketchup, broth, and 100 ml of water. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, wash the potatoes and boil them with their skins in salted water for 20 minutes. When done, let them cool for a few minutes, then peel and grate them.

4. In a large bowl, add the grated potatoes, egg, flour, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous dough.

5. Form a thicker roll and cut it into slices about 2 cm thick. In each piece of dough, place a cube of cheese and, optionally, a piece of chili pepper. Shape the dumplings into round forms.

6. Boil the dumplings in salted boiling water. Let them cook for about 15 minutes on very low heat until they rise to the surface.

7. Meanwhile, thicken the sauce in the pan with the reserved flour, dissolved in a little water. Add the sugar, sliced garlic, and your favorite spices. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

8. Once the dumplings are cooked, remove them from the water and add them to the chicken sauce. If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add a few slices of chili pepper to the sauce.

9. On plates, place a piece of meat, a few dumplings, and sprinkle thyme and oregano on top. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Serving and suggestions:

This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance the flavors or with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the taste of the chicken.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?
Of course! You can experiment with mozzarella, feta, or cottage cheese, depending on your preferences.

- How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can replace the oil with a cooking spray or use skinless chicken to reduce fat.

- Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes! You can freeze the raw dumplings before boiling them. Make sure to place them in an airtight container and label with the date.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is a good source of protein due to the chicken, while the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates necessary for energy. The cheese adds calcium and healthy fats, while the vegetables and herbs bring essential vitamins and minerals.

Practical tip:
To achieve fluffy dumplings, make sure not to overcook them and that the dough is well mixed. You can also add a little mustard to the sauce for a richer and more complex flavor.

This recipe for chicken in sauce with potato dumplings filled with cheese is not just a delicious meal but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. Enjoy your meal!