Chicken and Dumplings: 7 Simple Steps to Comfort Food

Name: Chicken and Dumplings: 7 Simple Steps to Comfort Food
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something magical about a big pot of chicken and dumplings bubbling away on the stove. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day, right? This classic comfort dish has been a cherished staple in kitchens for generations, bringing families together around the table. The aroma of savory chicken simmering in rich broth, paired with fluffy dumplings, is a memory that lingers long after the last bite. Trust me, when you dig into this dish, you’re not just savoring flavors; you’re experiencing a warm slice of nostalgia. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a chilly evening, chicken and dumplings have a way of lifting spirits and filling hearts. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home too!

chicken and dumplings - detail 1

Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), preferably free-range for richer flavor
4 cups chicken broth, homemade for the best depth of flavor
1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted for a lighter dumpling texture
1/2 cup milk, whole milk works best for creaminess
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted for added richness
1 large onion, diced finely for sweetness
2 carrots, sliced into thin rounds for even cooking
2 celery stalks, sliced for that classic flavor base
2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic depth
1 teaspoon dried thyme, or fresh if you have it on hand
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for the best flavor
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish and a pop of color

How to Prepare Chicken and Dumplings

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this comforting dish that warms the soul! Trust me, once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll find yourself whipping up chicken and dumplings on the regular. The key here is patience and attention to detail. Let’s dive in!

Preparing the Chicken

Start by bringing your 4 cups of chicken broth to a gentle boil in a large pot. Carefully add the whole chicken, ensuring it’s submerged. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 1 hour. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily pulls away from the bone. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Then, shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin. Oh, and don’t worry if it feels a little tricky—just take your time, and you’ll end up with beautifully shredded chicken that’s just waiting to join the party!

Making the Dumplings

While the chicken is cooling, it’s time to whip up those fluffy dumplings! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sifted all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. The consistency should be thick but still spoonable—think of a thick pancake batter! Now, here’s the fun part: drop spoonfuls of this dough directly into the simmering broth. Don’t overcrowd the pot; aim for about 6-8 dumplings at a time. Cover the pot, and let them cook for about 15 minutes. You’ll want to resist the urge to peek because that steam is what makes them fluffy and divine!

Combining Ingredients

Once your dumplings are puffed up and fluffy, it’s time to bring everything together! In the same pot, add in your shredded chicken along with the sautéed onions, carrots, celery, and garlic from earlier. Give it a good stir to combine. This step is crucial—allowing the flavors to meld together for just a few minutes will elevate your dish to a whole new level. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper? Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. And there you have it—the perfect bowl of chicken and dumplings, ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Success

Alright, friends, if you want to elevate your chicken and dumplings game, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that’ll make all the difference. Let’s get into it!

Use Quality Ingredients: Trust me, the flavor of your dish starts with good ingredients. A free-range chicken makes a world of difference in taste. And if you can, opt for homemade chicken broth—it’s richer and adds so much depth! Learn more about making homemade broth.
Substitutions Galore: Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or swap out the veggies for whatever you have on hand. Think peas, corn, or even green beans! Just keep the flavor balance in mind.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Fresh rosemary or dill can add a lovely twist to your broth. If you’ve got fresh herbs, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Perfect Dumpling Texture: The key to fluffy dumplings is not overmixing the dough. Just stir until combined and stop! A little lumpiness is perfectly okay. If your dough feels too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
Don’t Peek: When cooking the dumplings, resist the urge to lift the lid! Steam is your best friend here; it helps them rise and become airy. Trust the process!
Taste as You Go: As you combine all your ingredients, always taste your broth before serving. You might want to adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Resting Time: Allow the pot to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This lets the flavors mingle even more, making each bowl a delightful experience.

With these tips, you’re set to impress anyone who sits down to a bowl of your chicken and dumplings. Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken and Dumplings

One of the best things about chicken and dumplings is how versatile it can be! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some delicious variations that I absolutely love:

Vegetable Medley: Add a mix of seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition and color. Think peas, corn, or even diced potatoes! Just toss them into the pot with the other veggies and let them cook until tender.
Turkey and Dumplings: Leftover turkey from the holidays? Perfect! Swap out the chicken for shredded turkey. It pairs wonderfully with the rich broth and gives a festive twist to this classic dish.
Herb-Infused Broth: Want to change the flavor profile? Try infusing your broth with fresh herbs like rosemary, dill, or even sage. Just toss them into the pot while the chicken simmers for a fragrant touch.
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the broth for a spicy version. It adds an exciting zing that’s sure to wake up your taste buds!
Cheesy Dumplings: Mix in a bit of shredded cheese into the dumpling dough for a cheesy surprise! I recommend sharp cheddar for a robust flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
Gluten-Free Options: For those avoiding gluten, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in your dumpling dough. Just make sure it has a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to get that fluffy texture.
Asian-Inspired Twist: Change up the seasoning by adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to your broth. Replace the dumplings with Asian-style dumplings for a completely different take on this comfort food.

Remember, the sky’s the limit! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins, herbs, and vegetables. Each variation can take you on a delightful culinary journey, and who knows? You might just create a new family favorite!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious chicken and dumplings ready to go, let’s talk about how to make that meal even more special! Trust me, the right sides and garnishes can elevate your dish from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread or buttery dinner rolls is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up that rich broth. You can’t go wrong with a fresh baguette or homemade cornbread!
Simple Salad: A light, crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken and dumplings. Try a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad for that extra crunch.
Steamed Vegetables: Keep it healthy by serving a side of steamed green veggies, like broccoli or green beans. They add a pop of color and balance out the richness of the dish.
Garnishing: Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or fresh thyme over your chicken and dumplings just before serving. It adds a beautiful touch and a burst of freshness that brightens every bowl!
Plating: When serving, ladle the chicken and dumplings into shallow bowls. This allows for a generous portion of broth and dumplings while making it visually appealing. You might even consider adding a slice of lemon on the side for a zesty touch.
Hot Sauce: For those who love a little heat, place a bottle of hot sauce on the table. A few dashes can add an exciting kick that complements the savory flavors beautifully!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a comforting meal that’s not just delicious but also beautifully presented. Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends—after all, good food is meant to be shared!

Nutritional Information

Before you dig into this delicious bowl of chicken and dumplings, let’s chat about the nutritional side of things! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this info is just a general guideline.

For a typical serving size of 1 cup, you can expect the following approximate values:

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 35g

So, while you’re enjoying this comforting dish, you’ll also be fueling your body with a hearty dose of protein and flavor. Just remember, balance is key, so feel free to pair it with those lovely side dishes we talked about earlier. Enjoy every bite!

FAQ about Chicken and Dumplings

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, frozen chicken works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. It might take a bit longer to reach the right tenderness, but it’ll still turn out delicious!

What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is a great alternative! It’ll still give you a lovely base for your dish. You can also use homemade stock if you have some stored away in the freezer.

How can I make my dumplings fluffier?
For super fluffy dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough! Stir just until combined, and if it feels too thick, add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency. Trust me, fluffy dumplings are all about that gentle touch!

Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?
You can definitely prep some components ahead of time! Cook the chicken and make the broth a day in advance. Just keep everything stored separately in the fridge and combine when you’re ready to cook the dumplings. It’ll save you some time!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the dumplings might soak up some broth, so you might need to add a splash of water or more broth when reheating to keep everything nice and cozy!

Final Thoughts

Wow, what a journey we’ve been on with this chicken and dumplings recipe! I hope you’re as excited to try it as I am to share it. There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of this classic dish, and I can’t wait for you to experience it. I’d love to hear how your chicken and dumplings turn out—did you make any fun tweaks or add your own twist? Maybe you swapped in some seasonal veggies or experimented with spices? Whatever it is, please share your experiences in the comments below!

And if you loved this recipe (which I’m sure you will!), don’t forget to give it a rating! Your feedback helps me create even more delightful dishes for our cooking community. Together, we can keep the spirit of home-cooked comfort food alive. Happy cooking, friends, and enjoy every bite of your delicious creation!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.