Chicken Dumplings in Tomato Sauce

Filled dumplings turn up across Eastern Europe in countless forms, usually boiled and served with butter or sour cream. Simmering them in a garlicky tomato sauce is a modern home-kitchen twist: familiar comfort food, with a brighter sauce. It is hearty, easy to scale, and made for sharing.

Serves 4 · 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 bag chicken dumplings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp heavy cream, optional
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the frozen chicken dumplings and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until they float and are heated through. Drain and set aside.
3. While the dumplings cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked dumplings to the sauce and gently stir to coat.
7. Simmer for 5–8 minutes so the flavors meld together.
8. Stir in the heavy cream, if using, for a richer sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.