Chicken and Dumplings

This classic Chicken and Dumplings recipe delivers a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings. It is the perfect meal for a cozy dinner, offering the warm, homemade flavor of traditional Southern cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless comfort food that brings together simple ingredients in a deeply satisfying way. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish to share with friends, this recipe is easy to follow and full of flavor. It uses accessible pantry staples, cooks in one pot, and is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. The dumplings are soft and fluffy, soaking up the savory flavors of the chicken stew, making this dish a complete and nourishing meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• Carrots

• Celery

• Onion

• Garlic

• Chicken broth

• Bay leaves

• Dried thyme

• Salt

• Black pepper

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Milk

• Unsalted butter

• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chopped onion, celery, and carrots in a bit of butter until softened.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Place the chicken pieces into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 25–30 minutes.

5. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with forks, then return it to the pot.

6. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and milk to form a soft dough. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering soup.

7. Cover and simmer gently for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the dumplings to cook and puff up.

8. Once the dumplings are cooked through, remove the bay leaves, stir the stew gently, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or a roux to the broth for a richer, creamier base.

• Herbed Dumplings: Mix chopped herbs like parsley or chives into the dumpling dough for extra flavor.

• Vegetable Boost: Include frozen peas or green beans for additional texture and nutrition.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed. Dumplings may absorb liquid over time, so adjust accordingly.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as dumplings may become denser after refrigeration. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Chicken and Dumplings?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their flavor and tenderness, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can add shredded cooked chicken to the broth and reduce the cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

Dumplings are fully cooked when they are puffed, no longer doughy inside, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for both the soup thickening and dumpling dough. Be sure it includes a leavening agent or add baking powder.

Can I use biscuit dough for the dumplings?

Yes, store-bought biscuit dough can be used as a shortcut for dumplings. Cut it into pieces and drop it into the simmering broth.

How do I keep dumplings from becoming too dense?

Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough and do not lift the lid while they are cooking, as steam is essential for their texture.

Is there a way to make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook the chicken and vegetables on low for 6–7 hours, then add the dumpling dough in the last hour, letting them steam with the lid on.

What herbs go well with Chicken and Dumplings?

Thyme, bay leaf, parsley, and a little rosemary work wonderfully to enhance the dish’s flavor.

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare dumplings just before cooking. Premade dough may dry out or not rise properly when stored.

What if my broth thickens too much?

Add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency while heating, and stir gently to combine.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved classic for good reason: it’s simple, hearty, and full of comforting flavors. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft dumplings, this dish is perfect for family dinners or when you’re in need of something soul-warming. The flexibility to adjust the recipe to your taste makes it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire

Print