Chicken and dumplings is a timeless comfort food that has been warming hearts and filling bellies for generations. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something hearty and wholesome. Growing up, my family often made this recipe during the colder months when we needed cozy dishes to bring us together. The creamy broth paired with fluffy dumplings is a delightful combo that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Chicken and dumplings isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you should whip it up in your kitchen:

Quick and Convenient: This dish can easily be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want to serve something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.
Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or can be found at a low cost, which means you can feed your family deliciously without breaking the bank.
Kid-Approved: It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, and kids love the fluffy dumplings. Even picky eaters usually clean their plates.
Hearty and Filling: This dish is perfect for those nights when you need something satisfying. It’s a complete meal in one pot!

“This chicken and dumplings recipe has quickly become a family favorite! So creamy and the dumplings are perfectly light and fluffy. Absolutely delicious!” – A Happy Cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Preparing chicken and dumplings is simpler than you might think. Here’s an easy overview of what to expect:

Combine the creamy base: Start by mixing the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk.
Add your protein and veggies: Stir in the cooked chicken, and if you want, some frozen mixed vegetables for a touch of color and nutrition.
Make the dumplings: Cut the refrigerated biscuits and drop them into the simmering mixture.
Cook until fluffy: Cover and let the dumplings steam until they are airy and cooked through.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1 can refrigerated biscuits
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute cooked turkey for chicken if you want to mix things up or use homemade broth for added flavor depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large pot, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Add the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Open the can of biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering soup mixture.
Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Serve hot and enjoy your hearty chicken and dumplings!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Chicken and dumplings can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some creative ideas to make the most of your meal:

Serve in a deep bowl: Once plated, drizzle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
Pair with a fresh salad: A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances this rich dish wonderfully.
Add a side of crusty bread: For those who like to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth, a good piece of bread is a must.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing your leftovers properly is crucial to maintain freshness and flavor.

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: While not ideal due to the soft texture of dumplings, you can freeze the chicken and broth mixture without the dumplings. Just store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat gently.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure your chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly:

Dumpling Consistency: Ensure the dumplings are dropped into the simmering soup gently; this helps them stay fluffy instead of becoming dense.
Thicker broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the mixture just before adding the dumplings.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some creative twists you can try:

Herbed Dumplings: Add fresh herbs like chives or dill into the biscuit dough for an aromatic touch.
Spicy Kick: A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper in the broth can spice things up for those who enjoy a kick.
Southern Style: Integrate some cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier, meatier version of this classic dish.

Common Questions

What is the prep time for chicken and dumplings?

Prep time is about 10 minutes, and the total cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick dish to prepare.

Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken. Just cook it first in the pot before adding the cream of chicken soup and broth.

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Enjoy some comfort food all over again!

Now that you have all the secrets for making chicken and dumplings, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!

Chicken and Dumplings

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting dish of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth, perfect for chilly nights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1 can refrigerated biscuits
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Add the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Open the can of biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering soup mixture.
Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Serve hot and enjoy your hearty chicken and dumplings!

Notes

You can use cooked turkey instead of chicken or homemade broth for added flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: chicken, dumplings, comfort food, easy recipe, one pot meal