Classic Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and brimming with home-cooked flavor. This timeless dish features tender chunks of chicken simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and herbs, all topped with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up every bit of the savory goodness. Whether you’re nursing a cold or simply craving a warm, satisfying meal, this recipe delivers nostalgia and nourishment in every bite.

Rooted in Southern cooking traditions, Chicken and Dumplings is a dish that brings people together around the table. The aromatic blend of garlic, onion, and herbs infuses the broth with depth, while the addition of evaporated milk lends a creamy texture that perfectly complements the fluffy dumplings. What makes this version especially appealing is the balance between hearty ingredients and a silky, seasoned broth—neither too thick nor too thin, it hits that just-right spot.

This is a one-pot wonder that’s both rustic and refined, perfect for Sunday dinners or cozy weeknight meals. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and offers plenty of room for variations to suit your taste. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this delicious, satisfying dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ultimate Comfort Food – Rich, hearty, and soothing with every spoonful.
2. One-Pot Meal – Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
3. Homestyle Flavor – Loaded with herbs, vegetables, and creamy broth for a satisfying experience.
4. Family Favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for feeding a crowd.
5. Customizable – Easy to adjust for dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Celery
• Carrots
• Yellow onion
• Garlic
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken broth (low-sodium)
• Chicken bouillon paste (or base)
• Dried thyme
• Dried sage
• Dried rosemary
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Evaporated milk
• Frozen peas
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Dumplings

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Kosher salt
• Milk
• Sour cream
• Butter (melted)

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the dumplings and the roux.
• Herb Lovers: Add fresh thyme, dill, or tarragon for a more fragrant dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.
• Creamier Base: Stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the evaporated milk for extra richness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, carrots, and onion, and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 2

Add butter to the pot and let it melt. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bouillon paste. Stir in thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4

Add chicken breasts or thighs to the broth. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken, shred or dice, and return to pot.

Step 5

Stir in the evaporated milk and frozen peas. Simmer gently while you prepare the dumplings.

Step 6

In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until just combined.

Step 7

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Cover and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until dumplings are puffed and cooked through.

Step 8

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overmix the dumpling dough—this keeps them light and fluffy.
• Simmer the broth gently after adding dumplings to avoid breaking them apart.
• Shred the chicken with forks or dice it for a chunkier texture.
• Add peas near the end to retain their color and texture.
• Taste the broth before adding salt—bouillon can be quite salty.

How to Serve

Serve Chicken and Dumplings in large bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper. Pair with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. Ideal for cozy dinners or serving guests on a chilly evening.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in portions, omitting dumplings if possible (they don’t freeze well). Freeze broth and chicken mixture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, simply add it after the broth has simmered and reduce cooking time.

2. Can I make dumplings ahead of time?

It’s best to make dumplings fresh. Premade dough can become dense if stored too long.

3. Can I use heavy cream instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, but use slightly less to avoid an overly thick broth.

4. Why are my dumplings dense?

Overmixing or boiling instead of simmering can cause them to become heavy.

5. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the base in a slow cooker, then add dumplings in the last 30–45 minutes.

6. What’s the best chicken to use?

Boneless skinless thighs are flavorful and tender, but breasts work well too.

7. How do I thicken the broth more?

Add a cornstarch slurry or simmer uncovered slightly longer before adding milk.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free butter and milk alternative for both the broth and dumplings.

9. How long do dumplings take to cook?

Usually 15–20 minutes covered, depending on their size.

10. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, green beans, or corn are great additions.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings is a classic, soul-warming dish that’s both simple and satisfying. With tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a hearty meal that never goes out of style. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little extra comfort, this recipe is one you’ll return to time and again. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your recipe rotation!

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