Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Chicken and Dumplings on cold, cozy evenings. It’s a heartwarming dish that feels like a big hug! The tender chicken combined with fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. The smell wafting through my kitchen as it cooks is enough to bring the whole family running to the table. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:39:35.204Z

When I first learned to make Chicken and Dumplings, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could result in something so comforting. I experimented with various herbs and spices until I found the perfect balance that makes the broth sing with flavor. Each spoonful is filled with chunky pieces of chicken and the dumplings have a light, airy texture, absorbing all the deliciousness around them.

I’ve found that letting the dumplings steam on top of the bubbling broth is key to achieving that soft, pillowy structure. This steaming method keeps them light while ensuring they soak up the savory juices below. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a lovely color contrast and a fresh taste that rounds out this classic dish beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting with a creamy, flavorful broth
Fluffy dumplings that soak in all the deliciousness
Simple ingredients come together for a satisfying meal
Perfect for family dinners or gatherings

The Importance of Flavors

Choosing the right vegetables for your Chicken and Dumplings is crucial for depth of flavor. Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery creates a flavorful base known as mirepoix. This combination not only enhances the broth but adds sweetness and a slight earthiness. I often add a touch of fresh thyme to bring a fragrant note that further elevates the dish. For an extra kick, try a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle heat.

If you find yourself short on chicken broth, worry not! You can replace part of it with water or vegetable broth for a lighter taste. Adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing process can also introduce a layer of acidity that balances the creaminess of the dumplings. Just ensure to let the alcohol cook off before adding your broth for the best flavor outcome.

Perfecting Dumplings

Achieving the perfect dumplings is all about the technique of combining ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings, so stir just until incorporated. You want the mixture to be lumpy, not smooth—this will ensure they are light and fluffy when cooked. If your mixture feels too dry, a splash of milk can help create a better consistency without risking density.

For a unique twist, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and a heartier texture. Alternatively, using self-rising flour can save time, as it eliminates the need for baking powder. Just remember to adjust the salt levels, as self-rising flour contains added sodium.

Storage and Leftovers

Chicken and Dumplings store surprisingly well, making it an ideal meal prep dish. If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, divide into individual portions and freeze. Just be aware that the dumplings may lose some of their fluffy texture upon reheating, so adding a splash of milk or broth can help revive the creaminess.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat them on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. If the broth has thickened too much, thin it out with additional chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken and Dumplings:

For the Chicken and Broth

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a wonderful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make Chicken and Dumplings:

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined.

Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture over the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let cook for 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.

Serve

Ladle the Chicken and Dumplings into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken and Dumplings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add bay leaves during the simmering phase and remove them before serving. You can also customize the dumplings by mixing in herbs or spices if you like.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken and Dumplings with a light side salad to introduce some freshness to the meal. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy richness of the dish beautifully. Alternatively, freshly baked bread or cornbread on the side makes for a satisfying accompaniment, perfect for mopping up the delicious broth.

For a touch of flavor, consider a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and additional parsley on top just before serving. The vibrant green adds a pop of color, while the pepper enhances the overall taste profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of truffle oil can turn this homey dish into a gourmet experience.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with different proteins can lead to exciting variations of this classic dish. Instead of chicken, try using turkey or even shredded beef for a heartier twist. Adjust the cooking times based on the protein used; chicken tends to cook faster, while beef may need extra simmering to reach tenderness.

You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables like peas, green beans, or butternut squash for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to adjust when you add these to the pot—softer vegetables like peas can be added at the end to maintain their texture, while denser options like squash may need a longer cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.

→ Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the Chicken and Dumplings. However, the dumplings may become a bit dense after thawing.

→ How do I make the broth richer?

You can use homemade chicken broth or add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.

→ What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish is quite filling on its own but pairs nicely with a light salad or roasted vegetables.