This homemade Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. With its rich and creamy broth complemented by fluffy dumplings made from scratch in just minutes, this dish will surely become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a festive occasion, this recipe stands out with its hearty flavors and ease of preparation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting Flavor: The creamy broth combined with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings brings warmth with every bite.
Versatile Ingredients: Use either cooked or raw chicken based on your preference and what you have on hand.
Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making fluffy dumplings from scratch that perfectly soak up the broth.
Family Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken and Dumplings, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups and stews, ensuring even heat distribution for optimal cooking.
Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients easily without mess.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the best results in your cooking process.
Whisk: Great for mixing liquids smoothly to avoid lumps when creating your roux.

Ingredients

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings has a rich and creamy broth with big fluffy dumplings that are made from scratch in just minutes!

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)
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)

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large heavy-bottomed pot like a dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Add flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Slowly add the evaporated milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously to prevent burning or lumps.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

If using raw chicken: Add an extra cup of chicken broth (or water) along with the raw chicken. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Shred the chicken before returning it to the soup. Lower the heat to let it simmer uncovered while you prepare the dumplings.

If using pre-cooked chicken: Bring to a boil and add the chicken along with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Lower the heat to let it simmer uncovered while you make the dumplings.

With these steps completed, you’re well on your way to enjoying delicious homemade Chicken and Dumplings! Stay tuned as we dive into making those delectable dumplings next!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful experience, as this dish is both comforting and satisfying. You can enhance the enjoyment by pairing it with various accompaniments that complement its rich flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Thyme Sprigs: Add sprigs of fresh thyme to enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.

With Sides

Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.
Green Salad: A light green salad can balance the richness of Chicken and Dumplings.

With Condiments

Hot Sauce: Drizzle some hot sauce for an extra kick if you enjoy spicy food.
Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges for those who prefer a zesty twist.

How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

To achieve the perfect Chicken and Dumplings, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out creamy with fluffy dumplings every time.

Use Quality Broth: A good quality chicken stock enhances the flavor of your soup significantly.
Don’t Rush the Roux: Take your time while making the roux; it’s crucial for a creamy texture.
Check Dumpling Consistency: Ensure your dumpling batter is thick but not dry for optimal fluffiness.
Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling too vigorously after adding dumplings; simmering gently keeps them from becoming tough.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair well with Chicken and Dumplings. They add variety and balance to your dining experience.

Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans complement the main dish without overwhelming it.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing the creaminess of Chicken and Dumplings.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide an extra layer of comfort alongside this hearty meal.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes a wonderful partner, perfect for dipping into the broth.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crispy texture and earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are great for soaking up that delicious gravy-like broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Dumplings can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Incorrect Chicken Preparation: Using raw chicken without sufficient cooking time can lead to undercooked meat. Always ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the broth.
Skipping the Roux: Neglecting to properly prepare the roux can result in a watery broth. Be sure to cook the flour long enough with the butter before adding liquids to create a rich, creamy texture.
Overmixing Dumpling Dough: Overmixing can make dumplings tough instead of fluffy. Mix just until combined for light and airy dumplings.
Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can leave your dish bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.
Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause the dumplings to overcook or burn. Maintain a gentle simmer when cooking your Chicken and Dumplings for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings

Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Can be stored for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until hot.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken and Dumplings that might help you along your cooking journey.

What is Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy broth topped with fluffy dumplings. It’s perfect for cozy dinners.

How do I make my dumplings fluffy?

To achieve fluffy dumplings, avoid overmixing your batter and ensure you use baking powder that’s fresh. This will help them rise properly while cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before shredding it into the soup.

What sides go well with Chicken and Dumplings?

Pair your Chicken and Dumplings with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements its flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken and Dumplings recipe is not just comforting; it’s versatile too! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy this heartwarming dish with family and friends, bringing joy to any dinner table!