Chicken and Dumplings

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, this homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is just the ticket! There’s something truly special about the way the rich, creamy broth hugs each fluffy dumpling, making it feel like a warm embrace. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with family, this recipe brings everyone together around the table, creating memories that linger long after the last spoonful.

This Chicken and Dumplings dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing. It’s a wonderful way to show love and care through food—because who doesn’t appreciate a steaming bowl of comfort on a chilly day?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for those hectic weekdays when you need a delicious meal fast.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the big fluffy dumplings and savory chicken. It’s a surefire hit at any family dinner!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the soup ahead of time and simply add the dumplings when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Comforting: The creamy broth is packed with flavor, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking this Chicken and Dumplings dish is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll likely already have in your kitchen. Gather these items, and let’s get started!

For the Soup

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or half and half)
• 1 (32 oz) quart chicken stock (+1 extra cup of broth if using raw chicken)
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (or 1.5 lbs raw, skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste)
• Salt (to taste)

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 3/4 cup (6 oz) whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)

Variations

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut that still packs tons of flavor.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some peas or corn for added color and nutrition!
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to give your broth a unique twist.
• Make it lighter: Substitute lower-fat evaporated milk for an equally creamy yet lighter option.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, matchstick carrots, and celery. Cooking these vegetables for about five minutes allows them to soften and develop their flavors. Then toss in minced garlic for just one more minute until fragrant—this step really helps build that savory foundation for our soup!

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Next, sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously. This creates a roux that thickens our soup beautifully. Cook this mixture for about one minute before slowly pouring in the evaporated milk and chicken stock while continuing to stir. It’s crucial to keep stirring during this step to avoid any lumps; we want a smooth, creamy base full of flavor!

Step 3: Cook Your Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken, add one additional cup of broth or water along with it. Let everything simmer together for about twenty minutes until the chicken is cooked through. After that, shred the chicken right into your pot! If you’re using pre-cooked chicken instead, just bring everything to a boil before adding it along with thyme and black pepper. Either way, simmer uncovered while you prepare those delightful dumplings.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumplings

Now comes the fun part—making our fluffy dumplings! In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, pepper, salt, and thyme. Pour in whole milk and melted butter until everything just combines; don’t overmix! Drop spoonfuls of this batter right onto your simmering soup. Cover it up and let those dumplings steam away for about fifteen minutes without lifting the lid—trust me; they’ll puff up beautifully!

And there you have it—a hearty bowl of homemade Chicken and Dumplings ready to enjoy! Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side if you like. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Dumplings

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of goodness.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley not only adds flavor but also enhances the aroma of your dish, making it even more inviting.

• Make your dumplings fluffy: Don’t overmix the dumpling batter. A gentle fold is all you need to ensure they stay light and fluffy when cooked.

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker broth, let it simmer longer without the lid. For a thinner consistency, add more chicken stock gradually until you reach your desired thickness.

• Cook in batches if needed: If your pot seems too crowded, consider cooking the chicken in batches. This helps it cook evenly and allows for better layering of flavors.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully and makes for an even tastier meal!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Presenting your Chicken and Dumplings can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Freshly chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich broth.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor and adds a bit of heat without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of Chicken and Dumplings perfectly.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate, balancing out the creamy texture.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the savory broth, offering a delightful contrast in flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring in additional nutrients while their caramelized sweetness complements the savory profile of the soup.

With these serving suggestions, you’re set to impress family and friends at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy every bite of this heartwarming dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch, enjoy it fresh, and then save the leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the Chicken and Dumplings cool completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if needed to loosen the broth.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

You might have some questions about making Chicken and Dumplings. Here are a few common ones!

Can I use frozen chicken for this Chicken and Dumplings recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just add a little extra cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk in Chicken and Dumplings?

You can substitute evaporated milk with whole milk or heavy cream, but keep in mind that this will alter the richness slightly.

How do I make Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken and Dumplings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or preparing it for meal prep, I trust it will become a beloved favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!