Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. This homestyle dish turns simple pantry staples into a soul-warming meal that brings the whole family to the table. Whether it’s a chilly night or you just need a little nostalgia on a spoon, this classic delivers every time.
My love for Chicken and Dumplings goes back to my grandma’s kitchen—steam on the windows, the smell of simmering broth, and the sound of bubbling dough rising with each stir. I didn’t know what “comfort food” was as a kid, but I knew this was it.
Years later, I wanted to recreate that magic. After a few trials (including one batch where the dumplings sank like little soup stones), I landed on a version that’s true to the classic but simplified for today’s busy kitchens. And now, I make it whenever the weather turns or someone needs a bowl full of love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken and Dumplings is more than just soup—it’s cozy, filling, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with this recipe:
- Nostalgic and satisfying. A timeless dish that tastes like home.
- One pot, less mess. All the goodness simmers together in a single pot.
- Hearty enough for dinner. Packed with protein and carbs—no side dish required.
- Perfect for cold nights. Thick, warm, and absolutely comforting.
- Leftovers reheat like a dream. The flavors deepen overnight.
- Kid-friendly. Mild, creamy, and packed with fluffy dumplings.
- Easy to customize. Make it creamy, dairy-free, or add veggies—your call.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This version keeps it simple, wholesome, and pantry-friendly—just like grandma used to make (but a little faster).
For the Chicken Stew
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy base)
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Build the Broth
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Let simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Make the Dumplings
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in milk and melted butter just until combined. Don’t overmix—lumps are fine!
4. Drop the Dumplings
- Reduce stew to a low simmer.
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough directly onto the simmering surface. Leave space for them to puff up.
5. Cover and Simmer
- Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for 15–18 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into one—it should come out clean.
6. Optional Cream Finish
- Stir in heavy cream gently, being careful not to break the dumplings.
- Simmer 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat.
7. Serve
- Ladle into bowls and top with cracked pepper or a pinch of fresh parsley.
Pro Tips and Variations
Making Chicken and Dumplings is more art than science. Here’s how to get it just right—and ways to make it your own.
Pro Tips
- Don’t peek! Keep the lid closed while dumplings cook or they may fall flat.
- Use rotisserie chicken. A time-saving shortcut that’s still packed with flavor.
- Sift the flour. This helps create lighter, fluffier dumplings.
- Add cream last. Dairy can curdle if added too early—stir it in gently at the end.
Variations
- Make it dairy-free. Swap butter for oil and skip the cream.
- Add peas or corn. Stir in frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes for color and sweetness.
- Go herby. Mix chopped parsley or chives into the dumpling dough.
- Use biscuit dough. In a pinch, refrigerated biscuit dough can work—just flatten slightly before dropping in.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With It
This recipe is filling on its own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or want to round out the meal, these sides work beautifully.
1. Simple Green Salad
A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds balance to the rich stew.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Brussels sprouts, green beans, or roasted carrots add extra nutrients and color.
3. Buttermilk Biscuits
Yes, there are already dumplings, but no one ever complains about more bread at the table.
4. Applesauce or Cranberry Sauce
A slightly sweet, chilled side complements the warmth of the stew perfectly.
5. Pickled Vegetables
A tangy bite cuts through the richness and wakes up your palate.
Storage and Reheating
Chicken and Dumplings is just as comforting the next day—and possibly even better after the flavors meld.
Storing
- Let cool completely and store in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- The stew can be frozen, but dumplings may become dense after thawing.
- Freeze without dumplings, then make a fresh batch when reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium-low heat, adding broth or cream if it thickened too much.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring gently. Dumplings may need to be cut in half to heat evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even comfort food has its quirks. Here’s how to sidestep the most common slip-ups:
1. Overmixing the Dumpling Dough
This creates dense, chewy dumplings. Stir just until combined.
2. Lifting the Lid While Steaming
Tempting as it is, lifting the lid lets out steam and ruins the dumpling rise.
3. Boiling the Stew
High heat can break apart dumplings and make the broth cloudy. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
4. Dumping in Cold Cream
Adding cold cream directly can cause curdling. Warm it slightly before stirring in.
5. Using Low-Sodium Broth Without Adjusting
Low-sodium broth is great, but taste as you go—your stew may need extra seasoning.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition, a memory, and a warm bowl of comfort all in one. Whether you’re feeding a sick friend, cozying up on a cold night, or just looking for something hearty and homemade, this dish delivers every time.
Simple ingredients. One pot. Fluffy dumplings and tender chicken in a creamy broth. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
