Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup milk; 4 tbsp butter, melted

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

A comforting classic, Chicken and Dumplings combines tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:17:44.613Z

This timeless dish brings warmth and comfort, perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings. The combination of chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a meal that is both filling and delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy family meal
Fluffy dumplings that soak up the rich broth
A one-pot wonder for easy cleanup

      

A Cozy Comfort Food

Chicken and Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a dish that warms both the body and soul. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also invites you to gather around the table with family and friends.

This recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The rich, savory broth serves as a cozy base, while the dumplings add a light, fluffy element that makes each bite satisfying. It's the kind of meal that makes you want to linger at the dinner table, sharing stories and enjoying the moment.

One-Pot Convenience

One of the standout features of this Chicken and Dumplings recipe is its simplicity. Everything cooks in a single pot, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle of multiple dishes to clean afterward. This not only saves time but also allows you to focus on what really matters—spending quality time with your loved ones.

Additionally, this recipe's straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you'll find that this dish is easy to prepare and hard to resist. Plus, the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is a bonus!

Versatility and Customization

Chicken and Dumplings is incredibly versatile, allowing for plenty of customization to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. The flexibility of this dish means you can make it your own.

Moreover, if you're looking for a lighter version, consider using low-sodium broth and whole wheat flour for the dumplings. This way, you can enjoy this classic dish while still keeping an eye on your health. No matter how you choose to make it, Chicken and Dumplings is sure to delight.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup milk
4 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined. Do not overmix.

Combine and Cook

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the broth.

Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

To achieve the perfect dumpling texture, avoid overmixing the batter. Just stir until the ingredients are combined, and let them rest for a few minutes before dropping them into the broth. This simple technique helps ensure that your dumplings turn out fluffy and light, just like they should be.

Another tip is to keep the broth at a gentle boil when adding the dumplings. This helps them cook evenly without becoming dense or soggy. Remember to cover the pot while they cook to trap the steam, allowing the dumplings to rise beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, Chicken and Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore the consistency of the dish.

Freezing is also an option, but keep in mind that the dumplings may lose their fluffy texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze the leftovers, consider storing the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. This way, you can prepare fresh dumplings when you're ready to enjoy the dish again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just skip the cooking step for the chicken and add the shredded leftover chicken directly to the broth.

→ What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but a side salad or steamed vegetables would complement it nicely.

→ Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, but the dumplings may lose their texture upon thawing. It's best to freeze the broth and chicken separately.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.