If you are craving a comforting, warm meal that feels like a big hearty hug from the inside, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy, pillowy dumplings swimming in a flavorful, rich broth that’s packed with vibrant carrots and crisp celery. Each bite brings together simple ingredients to deliver a soulful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. This recipe is straightforward, yet the end result feels like a cherished classic—easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe lies in its simplicity — just a handful of everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken thighs adding richness, to the fresh vegetables contributing natural sweetness and color, all balanced by soft dumplings that soak up the fantastic broth.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tiger-tender with plenty of flavor, perfect for slow simmering in broth.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the savory base of the soup without overpowering the ingredients.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and an appealing orange hue to the dish.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Brings a subtle earthiness and crunch for depth and texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for fluffy dumplings that soak up every bit of broth.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures your dumplings rise perfectly light and tender.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Provides moisture for the dumpling batter and keeps it luscious.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the dumpling dough.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then season your chicken thighs and brown them for about five minutes on each side. This step is key to developing rich flavor foundations. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, toss in your chopped carrots and celery. Sauté them for about three minutes until they soften slightly, releasing their natural sweetness that will enhance the broth.
Step 3: Simmer Chicken and Broth
Add the six cups of low-sodium chicken broth back to the pot, along with the browned chicken thighs. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This slow simmer allows the chicken to get tender and soak up all that wonderful vegetable flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in the whole milk and melted butter until you have a smooth batter. This mixture forms your dumplings’ soft, fluffy texture.
Step 5: Drop and Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth, making sure they’re spaced apart. Cover the pot tightly and cook for 15 minutes—resist the urge to peek, as steam is what helps the dumplings puff up beautifully.
Step 6: Check and Serve
Use a toothpick to check if the dumplings are cooked through; it should come out clean when poked in the center. Once done, serve your chicken and dumplings hot, ladling extra broth alongside for dipping and savoring every bit of this homestyle delight.
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to brighten the dish both in flavor and presentation. A tiny grind of black pepper over the top can also enhance the comforting warmth of the soup.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. These fresh or roasted veggies add contrast and balance to the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming rustic touch, serve the Chicken and Dumplings Recipe in individual crock bowls or your favorite oversized mugs. You can even sprinkle a bit of grated sharp cheddar or Parmesan on top for a melty, savory finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making leftovers a delight to enjoy again.
Freezing
While dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the broth and chicken separately. Freeze cooled broth in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly and add freshly made dumplings when serving.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat to prevent dumplings from becoming tough. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving to keep textures intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful, especially with longer simmering. If using breasts, keep an eye on cooking time as they can dry out.
How do I make sure my dumplings are fluffy?
Be careful not to overmix your dumpling batter and cook them covered without lifting the lid. This traps steam that helps the dumplings rise light and tender.
Is there a gluten-free option for the dumplings?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, but make sure it contains xanthan gum to help bind the batter properly.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add broth and cook on low for 6 hours. Add dumplings towards the end as they cook quickly and should be added fresh.
What is the best way to reheat without drying out the dumplings?
Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth to keep moisture. High heat or microwaving can toughen the dumplings, so slow, low heat is key.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a genuine comfort classic that combines simple ingredients with loving technique to create a meal that feels like home. Whether it’s for a chilly evening or a family gathering, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and happy memories to the table. I encourage you to try it yourself—you’ll soon find it becoming one of your all-time favorites too!
Print
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
A comforting classic Chicken and Dumplings recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful broth with soft, fluffy dumplings made from scratch. Perfect for a hearty family meal in just 45 minutes.
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 (for browning chicken)
- Salt, to taste (for seasoning chicken and dumplings)
Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and brown them for about five minutes until lightly golden on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add sliced carrots and chopped celery. Sauté until they soften, approximately three minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer Chicken and Broth: Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing flavors to meld.
- Prepare Dumpling Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, whole milk, and melted butter. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Add Dumplings to Broth: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter carefully into the simmering broth. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure the dumplings cook evenly and become fluffy.
- Check and Serve: After 15 minutes, test the dumplings by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean if done. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, accompanied by extra broth as desired.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Do not lift the lid while dumplings are cooking to ensure proper rising and steaming.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for moistness and flavor over breasts.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste before serving.
- For a thicker broth, you can cook uncovered after removing dumplings to reduce liquid.
