The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings

Name: The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup milk; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings is a comforting classic that warms the heart and soul. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth, complemented by fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-05T18:38:22.082Z

This recipe for Chicken & Dumplings has been passed down through generations, bringing families together around the dinner table. The combination of tender chicken and pillowy dumplings creates the ultimate comfort food experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly nights
The dumplings are light and fluffy, soaking up all the flavors
A classic dish that brings back nostalgic memories

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something uniquely comforting about a bowl of chicken and dumplings. This dish is often associated with family gatherings and cozy nights spent at home. The aroma of simmering chicken and fresh herbs fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Each spoonful of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times and cherished moments with loved ones.

This recipe not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel cared for and loved, whether it's a chilly winter evening or a rainy afternoon. The heartiness of the chicken and the comforting texture of the dumplings create a meal that satisfies both hunger and emotional cravings.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

The beauty of chicken and dumplings lies in its versatility. While the classic recipe is beloved, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add your favorite vegetables, like peas or corn, for a burst of color and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique twist on this timeless dish.

Moreover, chicken and dumplings can be enjoyed year-round. Whether served as a hearty dinner on a cold winter night or a comforting meal on a rainy day, it’s the ultimate comfort food that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Plus, it’s simple enough to make for a weeknight family dinner yet special enough for gatherings and celebrations.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the many advantages of making chicken and dumplings is that it lends itself beautifully to meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later. The flavors deepen and improve over time, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.

When reheating, simply add a splash of broth to maintain the dumplings' fluffy texture and prevent them from drying out. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weekdays when you want a nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just heat, serve, and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade goodness!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

For the Chicken & Broth

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious outcome.

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, water, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the melted butter and milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Add Dumplings to Broth

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot, shred it, and return it to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

Achieving the perfect dumpling texture is all about balance. Avoid overmixing the dough; it should be mixed just until combined to ensure light and fluffy dumplings. If you prefer a slightly denser dumpling, you can add a bit more flour, but be cautious not to stray too far from the original recipe.

Always make sure your broth is gently simmering before adding the dumplings. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the rich flavors of the broth. If you find that your dumplings are not cooking through, simply cover the pot and let them steam a bit longer.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and dumplings can be served as a standalone meal, but pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables can elevate the dining experience. A light, tangy salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

For an added touch of flavor, consider garnishing your chicken and dumplings with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the hearty dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover chicken works great! Just add it to the broth at the end.

→ Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and broth separately, but the dumplings are best fresh.

→ What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but a simple green salad pairs nicely.

→ How do I prevent my dumplings from being dense?

Make sure not to overmix the dumpling dough, as this can lead to dense dumplings.