If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like a big hug on a plate, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken thighs simmered in rich broth mingle with soft, fluffy dumplings that soak up all the cozy flavors. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want a little homemade goodness. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms everyday pantry staples into a soul-satisfying feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that build incredible depth of flavor and texture. Each component plays a role, whether it’s tender chicken, bright veggies, or the pillowy dumplings that make the dish unforgettable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that stays moist throughout cooking.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps the stew light but savory without overpowering saltiness.
- Carrots: Add subtle sweetness, color, and a bit of crunch once softened.
- Celery: Brings a mild aromatic freshness to the stew.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the foundation for the dumplings’ delicate structure.
- Baking powder: This leavens the dumplings, making them light and fluffy rather than dense.
- Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the dumpling batter.
- Melted butter: Infuses the dumplings with a luxurious flavor and tender crumb.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs, then brown them for about five minutes until they develop a golden crust. This step seals in flavor and adds a lovely depth to the broth. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside—it will finish cooking in later steps and become wonderfully tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, toss in the chopped carrots and celery. Allow them to sauté until softened, which takes around three minutes. These veggies not only contribute flavor and nutrients but also add a colorful, inviting touch to the dish. Plus, the residual chicken bits left in the pot mix into the vegetables, enhancing the overall aroma.
Step 3: Simmer Chicken with Broth
Return the browned chicken to the pot and pour in six cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This slow simmer allows the chicken to cook through while the flavors meld together perfectly in the broth. The result is a base that’s rich, comforting, and absolutely begging for dumplings.
Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, milk, and melted butter. Stir everything until the batter is smooth and has no lumps. This simple batter is the heart of the dumplings, and mixing it right ensures they’ll puff up beautifully when cooked in the broth.
Step 5: Drop and Cook the Dumplings
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Once all dumplings are nestled in, cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook for 15 minutes without lifting. This steam-cooking method is key to fluffy, tender dumplings that soak up the flavors without falling apart. Resist the temptation to peek, as that lets the steam escape and affects the texture.
Step 6: Check and Serve
After the cooking time, test a dumpling by poking it with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the dumplings are perfectly cooked. Serve immediately with plenty of the hot broth, ensuring every bite is bursting with warmth and comfort. Enjoy the way the chicken, vegetables, and dumplings come together in every spoonful—it’s a joy to share.
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate this classic comfort food. Fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top offer a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbal brightness. A few grinds of black pepper or a little sprinkle of smoked paprika can add subtle complexity if you want to twist things up slightly while keeping it homey.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with light, crunchy sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, offering balance. Alternatively, crusty bread is ideal for soaking up every last drop of the luscious broth—perfect for soaking up comfort and smiles.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests at a cozy dinner? Serve the chicken and dumplings in rustic individual bowls garnished with herbs. For a casual family meal, ladle it into large, soup-like portions that everyone can scoop up easily. You can also experiment with adding a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken and dumplings keep well in the fridge for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often intensify after resting overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to freeze the broth and chicken separately from the dumplings. Dumplings can become a bit dense after freezing and thawing. Store the broth and chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to three months, then add freshly made dumplings when reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the consistency as it warms up. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen to keep the dumplings tender and prevent toughness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts will work fine if you prefer leaner meat. Just watch the cooking time closely, as breast meat can dry out faster.
What if I don’t have baking powder for the dumplings?
Baking powder is essential for fluffy dumplings. If you don’t have any, you could try a mix of baking soda and cream of tartar as a substitute, but the texture might be a little different. For best results, stick with baking powder.
Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that works for baking, you can create a gluten-free version. You might need to adjust liquid amounts slightly as gluten-free flours absorb differently.
How thick should the dumpling batter be?
The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned into the broth but still easily drop off the spoon. Think of a thick pancake batter consistency—if too runny, the dumplings won’t puff correctly.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dumplings?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a pinch of your favorite seasoning to the dumpling batter for an extra flavor boost. Just keep it balanced so it complements the stew.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe feels like passing on a little bit of warmth wrapped in a culinary hug. It’s the kind of meal that welcomes you home, turning any day into a special occasion with its tender chicken, perfectly cooked dumplings, and hearty broth. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s not just a dish, but a comforting experience you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful broth with soft, fluffy homemade dumplings. Perfect for a hearty family meal, this classic dish combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and pillowy dumplings cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, then brown them for about five minutes until they develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Sauté until softened, about three minutes, allowing the vegetables to release their flavors into the pot.
- Simmer Chicken and Broth: Return the browned chicken to the pot and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors together.
- Prepare Dumpling Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the whole milk and melted butter until a smooth batter forms, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Cook Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure they steam properly.
- Check and Serve: Use a toothpick to check the dumplings for doneness — it should come out clean when they are cooked through. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot with extra broth.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness compared to chicken breasts.
- Keep the lid on while cooking the dumplings so they steam properly and become fluffy.
- For a thicker broth, you can remove the chicken after simmering and reduce the broth before adding dumplings.
- Add herbs like thyme or parsley to the broth for enhanced flavor, if desired.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
