Easy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic
Looking for the best chicken and dumplings recipe that’s warm, hearty, and full of flavor? This easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is a true American comfort food classic. Made with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a savory broth, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you just want a satisfying meal that feels like home.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken and Dumplings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached works great)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Ingredients for the Fluffy Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Quick Chicken and Dumplings Tutorial
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they begin to soften—about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and poultry seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and parsley. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. Don’t overmix—it should be lumpy but moist.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid—this traps steam that helps the dumplings puff up perfectly.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Once the dumplings are fluffy and fully cooked through, stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream. Let everything warm through for 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings
- Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie or meal-prep chicken saves time and adds rich flavor.
- Don’t overmix dumplings: Mix until just combined for the fluffiest texture.
- Keep the lid on: Steaming is crucial to cooking dumplings properly—resist the urge to peek!
- Make it creamier: Stir in more cream or a splash of milk for an extra luscious broth.
Why This Is the Best Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Quick and easy: From scratch in under an hour—perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Rich and hearty: Full of flavor and satisfying textures.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own.
- Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, with no complicated steps.
This quick chicken and dumplings tutorial is your go-to guide for creating a cozy bowl of comfort that brings everyone to the table. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe delivers results you’ll love. Bookmark this best chicken and dumplings recipe and enjoy the ultimate feel-good meal anytime of year.
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