Final answer:
Dumplings on top of a stew, like in chicken and dumplings, are cooked by steaming. They are placed on the simmering stew and covered, letting the steam cook them to become fluffy and tender.
Step-by-step explanation:
The method used to cook dumplings on top of a stew, as in the case of chicken and dumplings, is steaming. When you add dumplings to the stew, they are typically placed on top of the hot liquid and covered with a lid. The steam produced by the simmering stew cooks the dumplings, making them fluffy and tender. This cooking process allows the dumplings to absorb the flavors of the stew while maintaining their distinct texture. Dumplings on top of a stew, like in chicken and dumplings, are cooked by steaming. They are placed on the simmering stew and covered, letting the steam cook them to become fluffy and tender.