As I stirred the bubbling pot of broth, memories of cozy family dinners came rushing back—the kind where laughter filled the air and bellies were happily satisfied. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe, a dish that captures the essence of comfort food in every bite. This meal is both budget-friendly and incredibly simple to whip up, taking less than an hour to prepare using leftover poultry. With tender dumplings soaking up the savory broth, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something soul-soothing but don’t want to compromise on flavor. Are you ready to make a dish that feels like a warm hug?
Why is Chicken and Dumplings so loved?
Comforting Warmth: This easy recipe brings a sense of home to your table with its creamy broth and fluffy dumplings, perfect for chilly nights.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing leftover poultry helps you save while enjoying a delicious meal.
Quick Preparation: With under an hour from start to finish, you’ll have a hearty dinner ready before you know it.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Great for family gatherings, this dish is bound to make everyone ask for seconds!
Plus, you can mix it up with added vegetables or even a gluten-free option—just check out the variation ideas for inspiration! Enjoy a delightful take on a classic comfort food that captures the heart and the palate!
Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Broth
• Cooked Chicken or Turkey – Perfect for using up leftover poultry, providing both flavor and protein.
• Chopped Celery – Adds a delightful crunch and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Forms a creamy base; swap for low-fat cream or milk mixed with extra chicken broth for a lighter option.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for low-sodium if you're watching your salt intake.
• Water – Used to adjust broth consistency; the empty soup can works well for measuring.
For the Dumplings
• Self-Rising Flour – Key for creating fluffy dumplings; can be substituted with a mix of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt if needed.
• Shortening – Helps achieve that tender texture in dumplings, making each bite softer.
• Boiling Water – Activates the dumpling mixture; add carefully to ensure a soft dough forms.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to suit your taste for a perfect finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, combine the chopped cooked chicken, chopped celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, allowing the ingredients to blend for about 5 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for another 10 minutes. This creates a rich base for your chicken and dumplings.
Step 2: Make Dumpling Dough
While the broth simmers, prepare the dumpling dough. In a mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour and shortening, using your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add boiling water, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms, roughly 3-5 minutes. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable for shaping later.
Step 3: Shape Dumplings
Once your dough is ready, lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the dough into strips, then into squares measuring 1-2 inches. This allows for even cooking in the broth. Keep the dumpling squares covered while you finish the next steps to prevent drying out.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Gently drop the dumpling squares into the simmering broth in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cover the pot with a lid and let them cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll know they're done when they are puffy and slightly firm to the touch, soaking up the delicious flavors of the chicken and broth.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked, taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. To serve, ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of tender dumplings and rich broth. Enjoy this warm, comforting dish that brings the cozy essence of home to your table.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the chicken broth base up to 3 days in advance by preparing it as directed and refrigerating it in an airtight container. Just leave out the dumplings to maintain their fluffiness. When you're ready to enjoy a cozy family meal, simply heat the broth until simmering, make the dumpling dough, and drop the dumplings in. They only need about 20 minutes to cook through, ensuring a fresh and comforting dish that tastes just as delicious as when made from scratch. By prepping ahead, you save valuable time on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor!
Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to transform this comforting dish into something uniquely yours with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms to elevate the flavor and nutrition while adding vibrant colors.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend and baking powder for fluffy dumplings, though you may notice a slight texture change.
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Dropping Method: For quick prep, simply drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the broth instead of cutting for tasty, rustic shapes.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a warm, zesty finish that ignites your palate.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the broth for bright, aromatic notes that make your dish sing.
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Creamy Delight: For an extra-rich broth, whisk in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving—creamy goodness in every spoonful.
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Cheddar Cheese: Fold shredded cheddar cheese into the dumpling dough for an added layer of flavor and richness in each bite.
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Coconut Milk Twist: Substitute part of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a subtle sweetness and tropical twist, adding great depth to your soup!
These variations encourage you to create a dish that suits your family’s taste and dietary needs—enjoy the love and warmth in every bite!
What to Serve with Easy Chicken and Dumplings
As you savor each spoonful of creamy goodness, consider these delightful side dishes that will create a memorable family meal.
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Steamed Green Beans: A fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy broth, these tender beans add a touch of brightness and color to your plate.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes provide an indulgent touch. Their rich flavor pairs beautifully with the savory soup.
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Simple Side Salad: A light mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots complement the flavors of the broth, adding warmth and a hint of sweetness to every bite.
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Cornbread: This slightly sweet and crumbly bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the delectable broth, enhancing the comfort food experience.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream provides a sweet finish, rounding off the meal wonderfully with a hint of nostalgia.
Prepare a cozy spread that will have everyone gathered around the table, making memories and enjoying the warmth of home-cooked goodness.
Expert Tips for Chicken and Dumplings
• Perfectly Fluffy Dumplings: Ensure your boiling water isn’t too cool; it activates the dough's rise for fluffy dumplings.
• Watch for Doughy Centers: If your dumplings appear doughy after 20 minutes, simply cover and extend the cooking time by 5-10 minutes for thorough cooking.
• Leftover Magic: Using leftover chicken not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor—the heart of a great chicken and dumplings dish.
• Batch Cooking: Consider making the broth ahead of time. Just add the dumplings when you’re ready to serve to keep them tender and fluffy.
• Seasoning Matters: Taste your broth before serving; adjusting the salt and pepper at the end helps you achieve the perfect flavor balance.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for the best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions of chicken and dumplings in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove until warmed through.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot to keep the dumplings moist and flavorful.
Airtight Storage: Ensure all containers are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, maintaining the comfort food essence of your chicken and dumplings.
Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! You can use any cooked chicken or turkey, which makes this dish perfect for leftover poultry. I often use rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience, cutting down on prep time significantly.
How long can I store leftover Chicken and Dumplings?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve the flavors and textures, make sure the container is sealed well. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently, either on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can! For freezing, I suggest portioning the Chicken and Dumplings into freezer-safe containers in single servings. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth will help retain that comforting moisture.
What if my dumplings turn out doughy?
Very! If your dumplings are doughy in the center after simmering for 20 minutes, simply cover the pot and let them simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. It’s really important to give them enough time to cook through—that’s the key to fluffy dumplings!
Can I add vegetables to Chicken and Dumplings?
Certainly! I recommend adding chopped carrots, peas, or mushrooms to enhance both the flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in with the chicken and broth while bringing it to a simmer, and they’ll cook beautifully alongside the dumplings.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend mixed with baking powder for the dumplings. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, but they will still be delightful!
Ultimate Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine cooked chicken, chopped celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a gentle boil and let cook for 15 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour and shortening. Mix until crumbs form, then gradually add boiling water. Stir until soft dough forms.
- Lightly flour a surface, roll the dough out to about ⅛ inch thick, and cut into squares of 1-2 inches.
- Gently drop dumpling squares into the simmering broth and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls.
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