Chicken & Dumplings

Name: Chicken & 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 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

A comforting dish that combines tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-02T18:46:02.516Z

Chicken & Dumplings is a classic comfort food that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth, topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A warm and hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion
Fluffy dumplings that are easy to make and incredibly satisfying
A one-pot dish that makes cleanup a breeze

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something uniquely comforting about a home-cooked meal, and Chicken & Dumplings epitomizes that warmth. This dish not only nourishes the body but also the soul, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. With its rich broth and tender chicken, it's the perfect antidote to a long day.

When you take a bite of the fluffy dumplings, you'll experience a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory broth. Each spoonful is a reminder of simpler times, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or a quiet night in. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for anyone seeking comfort food.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Chicken & Dumplings is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or needing a quick weeknight dinner, this dish fits the bill. You can even customize it with seasonal vegetables or different herbs to suit your taste or to use what you have on hand.

Additionally, this dish is a great way to use leftover chicken, allowing you to create something delicious without wasting food. The one-pot nature of the recipe not only simplifies cooking but also minimizes cleanup, making it a practical choice for busy cooks.

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

To achieve perfectly fluffy dumplings, it's crucial not to overmix the batter. Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, stir until just combined. This will keep the dumplings light and airy, ensuring they rise beautifully in the broth.

Another tip is to avoid lifting the lid while the dumplings are cooking. The steam is essential for their fluffy texture, so let them cook undisturbed to reach their full potential. Following these simple tips will elevate your Chicken & Dumplings to a restaurant-quality dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Broth

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

For the Dumplings

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Simmer the Chicken

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.

Make the Dumpling Batter

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined.

Add Dumplings to the Broth

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Serve

Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, return to the pot, and stir gently. Serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Chicken & Dumplings!

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, storing Chicken & Dumplings is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be mindful that the dumplings may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the Chicken & Dumplings. However, it's best to freeze the broth and chicken separately from the dumplings to maintain their texture. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest days.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the comforting flavors of Chicken & Dumplings, consider serving it with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For beverage pairings, a light white wine or a crisp cider would work well. These drinks can elevate the meal without overpowering the dish's rich flavors. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon can add a delightful touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily than thighs.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the broth ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Make the dumplings fresh before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I serve with Chicken & Dumplings?

This dish is hearty on its own, but a side salad or some crusty bread pairs well.

→ Can I freeze Chicken & Dumplings?

Yes, but the dumplings may lose their texture when thawed. It's best to freeze the broth and chicken separately and make fresh dumplings when ready to serve.