Last updated on
Homemade Chicken And Dumplings
This classic recipe for homemade chicken and dumplings is exactly what you need to make a hearty, flavorful family dinner. Simple to follow, and full of flavor, you'll come back to this recipe again and again.
Jump to RecipeTable of Contents
Whip up this easy chicken and dumplings recipe for a comforting, homemade meal in under an hour! The creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings make every bite irresistible. Perfect for cozy dinners or quick family meals, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food tonight!
This recipe is super easy to follow with a detailed guide below. You’ll find step-by-step photos and clear directions to help you. We’ve included pro tips, tricks, and answers to the most frequently asked questions for flawless results.
Chicken and dumplings is a quick, comforting dinner that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings create a dish full of flavor and warmth. This recipe shines at family dinners, potlucks, or when you crave cozy comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can enjoy this timeless classic at home.
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Chicken and Dumplings
For the Soup:
- 3-4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded)
- 8 cups water
- 4 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon Chicken
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 4 carrots, cut in half lengthwise and then diced
- 4 celery stalks, diced
- 2 small yellow onions, diced finely
- ½ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅔ cup milk
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your chicken and dumplings recipe by swapping out ingredients or adding flavorful extras! These simple changes make this classic dish uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Boost the Broth: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a touch of garlic powder for added richness and depth.
Substitute Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or turkey for an easy and flavorful twist in your chicken and dumplings.
Swap Vegetables: Replace peas with green beans or add corn for extra color and sweetness in your chicken and dumplings.
Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of earthy flavor that complements the creamy broth perfectly.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and pictures to create the best chicken and dumplings ever. Use the tips and tricks below for flawless results every time. Let’s get started and make this comforting classic together!
FIRST STEP: In a large bowl combine water and better than bouillon to make chicken broth. Place in the microwave for 3 minutes. Remove and stir well. Set it aside.
SECOND STEP: In a large stockpot over medium heat, add carrots, celery, onion, and 4 tbsp butter. Stir well to combine. Let cook for 10 minutes, stirring often to ensure that the onions don’t burn.
THIRD STEP: Add ½ cup flour and stir to combine. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
FOURTH STEP: Add the shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and milk. Stir well. Turn the temperature to low and let simmer while making the dumplings mixture.
FIFTH STEP: In a separate bowl sift Bisquick using a mesh strainer. Dump leftover Bisquick lumps in the garbage. Add salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasonings. Use a whisk to mix it together.
SIXTH STEP: Pour in the milk and melted butter. Use a spoon to combine the ingredients. Note: Don’t overmix the batter. Mix until just combined.
SEVENTH STEP: Using a small cookie dropper, or regular tablespoon measuring spoon, drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture into the simmering pot. Don’t stir the dumplings in, just let the dumplings fall into the simmering liquid.
EIGHTH STEP: Cover the pot and let cook for 15 minutes. Uncover, and using a large spoon gently turn over each dumpling. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
NINTH STEP: Serve and enjoy. Optional to garnish with a little chopped parsley.
How To Serve Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a versatile recipe perfect for all kinds of occasions and seasons. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, celebrating a special event, or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish fits the bill. Here are some fun ways to serve it:
Cozy Fall or Winter Meals: This hearty dish shines during cooler months when you crave warm, comforting flavors. Serve it with fall sangria followed by a slice of pumpkin pie for a cozy seasonal treat.
Family Dinners: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners. Pair it with fresh dinner rolls for a warm meal everyone will love.
Special Occasions: Serve chicken and dumplings for holidays, potlucks, or gatherings where comforting, homestyle food takes center stage. Add a side of vegetables or mashed potatoes to make it extra special.
Why You'll Love This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food loved for its simplicity, heartiness, and timeless appeal. Here’s why our readers can’t get enough of this recipe:
- A Comforting Classic: This dish brings all the cozy vibes with its creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft, pillowy dumplings. It’s the kind of meal that warms both your heart and your belly. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little extra comfort.
- Family-Friendly Favorite: Both kids and adults love the rich, savory flavors and the fun of digging into the dumplings. It’s an easy way to make everyone at the table happy while keeping dinner stress-free.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but hearty enough for special occasions. The straightforward steps and everyday ingredients mean anyone can whip up a delicious batch without breaking a sweat.
Chicken and dumplings isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that you’ll want to make again and again!
Recipe FAQ
What makes the dumplings so fluffy in chicken and dumplings?
The secret to fluffy dumplings is not overmixing the dough and simmering gently to cook them through without drying.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Use cooked chicken added towards the end to prevent overcooking. Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly for tender, flavorful results.
Can I make chicken and dumplings without homemade dumplings?
Yes! You can use store-bought biscuit dough for a quick and easy alternative that still tastes amazing.
How do I thicken the broth for chicken and dumplings?
Mix a little flour or cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the broth while simmering for a creamy consistency.
Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve chicken and dumplings at a family meal?
Ladle generous portions into individual bowls for easy serving. Let everyone enjoy the warm broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings.
Should chicken and dumplings be served hot or warm?
Serve chicken and dumplings hot to enjoy the full flavor of the creamy broth and freshly cooked dumplings at their best.
Can chicken and dumplings be served in a large dish?
Yes! Use a deep serving dish to showcase the dish’s creamy texture and hearty ingredients, perfect for self-serving at the table.
Is this recipe suitable for casual gatherings?
Absolutely! Chicken and dumplings is a crowd-pleaser, offering a comforting, homestyle meal everyone can enjoy together.
Storage FAQ
Follow these tips and tricks for storing your chicken and dumplings to keep them fresh and delicious. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got everything you need for the best results. Check out the details below!
Can I prepare chicken and dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, make the broth and chicken mixture a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and cook the dumplings fresh.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate them. They stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
Yes, freeze the chicken and broth mixture without the dumplings in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
How do I reheat chicken and dumplings?
Warm them gently in a pot over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep the consistency creamy.
Can I reheat chicken and dumplings in the microwave?
Yes, use the microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring between each interval, to ensure even reheating without overcooking the dumplings.
Chicken and Dumplings
This classic recipe for homemade chicken and dumplings is exactly what you need to make a hearty, flavorful family dinner. Simple to follow, and full of flavor, you'll come back to this recipe again and again.
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
For The Soup
- 3 to 4 cups rotisserie chicken shredded (or 2 large chicken breasts cooked and shredded)
- 8 cups water
- 4 tablespoons Better than Bouillon Chicken
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 carrots cut in half lengthwise and then diced
- 4 celery stalks diced
- 2 small yellow onions diced finely
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For The Dumplings
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅔ cup milk
DIRECTIONS
For The Soup
- In a large bowl combine water and better than bouillon to make chicken broth. Place in the microwave for 3 minutes. Remove and stir well. Set aside.
- In a large stock pot over medium heat, add carrots, celery, onion, and 4 tbsp butter. Stir well to combine. Let cook for 10 minutes, stirring often to ensure that the onions don’t burn.
- Add ½ cup flour and stir to combine. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and milk. Stir well. Turn temperature to low and let simmer while making the dumplings mixture.
For The Dumplings
- In a separate bowl, add the seasonings to the Bisquick and gently toss to incorporate.
- Drizzle the milk into the bisquick flour and gently stir to incorporate the liquid. DO NOT OVERMIX. Let the batter rest for 1-2 minutes.
- Using a 1 ½ tablespoon (1.5 inch) cookie scoop, gently drop the Bisquick batter *leaving space between each dumpling because they will expand in size as they cook* into the simmering chicken and vegetables. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the dumplings to simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Very carefully turn over each dumpling in the pot (being careful not to break them apart) and continue to cook, uncovered, for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy. Optional to garnish with a little chopped parsley. This yields 12 dumplings.
Notes
- Don’t over mix the batter. Mix until just combined.
- Be sure to leave the pot covered during this time to let the steam do it’s thing and make the dumplings fluffy! You can check if the dumplings are done by inserting a toothpick into the middle. Overcooked dumplings will start to break apart, so watch closely at the end.
Nutrition
Calories: 2561kcal | Carbohydrates: 228g | Protein: 163g | Fat: 111g | Saturated Fat: 50g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 41g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 548mg | Sodium: 9999mg | Potassium: 2471mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 48g | Vitamin A: 2211IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1151mg | Iron: 14mg
HAVE YOU TRIED THIS RECIPE?Follow me on Pinterest @bestblogrecipes
More Chicken Recipes for Dinner
More Recipes
- Loaded Cheesy Broccoli Potato Soup
- Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana Soup
- Three Cheese Chipotle Potato Soup & Garlic Bread
Comments
Linda says
This looked looked so good ,I had to try it it was great, Iwill be making this again.
Jamie Lifsey says
Made this with my girlfriend and it was amazing! Put a little love in cooking meals and it's always delicious! Definitely saving this recipe!
Linda Childers says
My sister's favorite meal can't wait to make it at home it looks delicious.
Cynthia says
Very nice. I did thicken it some what. I didn't put butter in the dumplings. (I made the Bisquick recipe for them but did add the spices) it makes a large batch so I shared it with my daughter and her hubby. Thank you for spurring me on to make this.
Dianne says
Without a doubt this was the best chicken and dumplings I have ever made! I would not change anything in this recipe. It turned out thick and creamy and the garlic and Italian seasoning in the dumplings made them amazing! Loved this!