Why Make This Recipe
Easy Chicken and Dumplings is a comfort food classic that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and hearty vegetables, this dish brings warmth to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners or those chilly evenings when you need a bowl of something hearty. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!
How to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- Fresh thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onions. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
- Once the broth is boiling, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the pot; the dumplings will puff up as they cook.
- Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and season with fresh thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh thyme or parsley if desired. For leftovers, allow the dish to cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Serve Easy Chicken and Dumplings hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for an extra touch of flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings
- Use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the vegetables as you like—peas and corn are great additions.
- Be careful not to overwork the dumpling dough; mix just until combined for tender dumplings.
Variation
You can make a creamy version of Easy Chicken and Dumplings by adding a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding and adding it to the soup.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While you can prepare the soup base ahead of time, it’s best to make the dumplings fresh for the best texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
Easy Chicken and Dumplings pairs well with a simple green salad or some warm, crusty bread. Enjoy!