If you are craving a heartwarming, comforting meal that wraps you in cozy satisfaction, this Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chunks of chicken swimming in a rich, creamy broth, dotted with delicate dumplings that are fluffy yet substantial. It’s a classic dish that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or anytime you need a little culinary comfort to brighten your day. Plus, it is surprisingly simple to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients that blend together effortlessly for a soul-soothing feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe lies in the simplicity and accessibility of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from lending creaminess and savory depth to creating the pillowy dumplings that soak up all those cozy flavors.
- 4 cups cooked chicken or turkey: This is the hearty protein base that makes the dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 cup chopped celery: Adds a fresh crunch and subtle earthiness to balance the creamy broth.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Brings richness and velvety texture to the broth with minimal effort.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans chicken broth: Forms the savory, aromatic liquid foundation of the dish.
- 3 cans of water: Use the empty soup can as a measuring tool to keep it simple and precise.
- 2 cups self-rising flour: Essential for light, fluffy dumplings with just the right bite.
- ¼ cup shortening: Cuts into the flour to create tender, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings.
- ¾ cup boiling water: Added gradually, this binds the dumpling dough while setting the texture just right.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth Base
Start by combining the cooked chicken, chopped celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water in a large soup pot. Bring this mixture to a lively boil over medium-high heat—this builds a flavorful, warming broth. Then cover and reduce the heat to let it simmer gently while you prepare your dumplings. This slow merge of flavors is the secret to that deeply satisfying taste.
Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the self-rising flour and cut in the shortening. Use a fork or pastry blender for this until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs—this step creates the tender, flaky texture we crave in dumplings. Then gradually add boiling water, starting with half a cup and adding more until the dough just comes together into a ball. This careful hydration keeps your dumplings from becoming tough.
Step 3: Shape the Dumplings
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll your dough out to about an eighth of an inch thick. Cut it into strips and squares—these little pillows will soak up all the delicious broth when cooked. If you prefer a more rustic feel, you can skip rolling and simply pinch off small, uniform pieces for drop-style dumplings that are just as inviting.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings in the Broth
With your broth boiling, remove the lid and add the dumpling pieces one by one. Cover the pot quickly after adding each dumpling to keep the temperature steady and ensure even cooking. Add about thirty seconds between each dumpling for the best texture. When all dumplings are nestled in, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about twenty minutes—giving the dumplings time to cook through and the flavors to marry beautifully. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep everything from sticking or burning on the bottom.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, taste and season with salt and pepper to bring out the vibrant flavors. Now your Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is ready to be savored, with that tender chicken and soft, flavorful dumplings melding into a bowl full of joy.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can elevate your bowl. These touches add brightness and a pop of color that makes the dish feel more lively and fresh. You can even add a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat with your comfort food.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with classic side dishes like buttery steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. A side of crusty bread is always a welcome addition too—it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover broth and rounding out your meal with some crunchy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and dumplings in individual bread bowls that everyone can dig into, or layer it in pretty glass bowls to showcase the layers of tender chicken, broth, and dumplings. These little details not only make the meal more inviting but also add a touch of elegance to a humble dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next day just as delicious if not better. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, which is great for busy days when cooking fresh isn’t an option. Freeze in portion-sized containers without the dumplings if possible, as they can become soggy. You can always add fresh dumplings when reheating to preserve that perfect texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the consistency if it’s thickened too much. If you left the dumplings out for freezing, add them after the broth is hot and cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you want to start from raw chicken, cook it first by boiling or roasting, then shred or chop it before adding it to the broth. This ensures the chicken is tender and the broth stays flavorful.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
You can make your own by combining 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. It works just as well for dumplings and keeps the texture light.
How can I make gluten-free dumplings?
Try using a gluten-free self-rising flour blend that is designed for baking. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously tender with some experimentation.
Can I add vegetables other than celery?
Definitely! Carrots, peas, or even corn can add sweetness and color. Just adjust cooking times slightly for harder vegetables so everything is tender and perfectly cooked.
Is it okay to freeze the entire chicken and dumplings dish?
You can, but dumplings can become mushy after freezing and reheating. For the best texture, freeze the broth and chicken separately and add fresh dumplings when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a total game-changer if you’re after a fuss-free, soul-warming meal that comes together quickly but delivers big on comfort and flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like home no matter where you are, and once you try it, it might just become your go-to whenever you want something cozy and satisfying. Give it a whirl and enjoy every spoonful!
Print
Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe combines tender cooked chicken with a creamy broth and homemade dumplings. Simmered to perfection on the stovetop, this comforting dish is perfect for a family meal that’s warm, hearty, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups cooked chicken or turkey, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans chicken broth
- 3 cans of water (use the empty soup can to measure)
Dumplings
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- ¼ cup shortening
- ¾ cup boiling water (add gradually as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: Place the chopped chicken, celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water into a large soup pot. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover and reduce the heat, allowing it to simmer while you prepare the dumplings.
- Make the dumpling dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour. Cut in the shortening using a fork or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add boiling water: Gradually pour in the boiling water—starting with about half a cup—and add more as needed just until the dough forms into a ball.
- Roll and cut dumplings: Dust a clean surface with flour, roll the dough out to about ⅛-inch thickness, and cut it into strips and squares.
- Cook the dumplings: Remove the lid from the pot of boiling broth. Add the dumpling squares one at a time, quickly covering the pot each time to keep the temperature steady. Let them cook for about 30 seconds between each addition.
- Simmer: Once all the dumplings are added, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Alternate dumpling method: For soft, fluffy drop dumplings, skip rolling the dough. Simply pinch off small, uniform pieces and drop them directly into the boiling broth. Simmer as directed until cooked through.
- Serve: Ladle the hearty chicken and dumplings into bowls and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Using self-rising flour makes the dumplings light and fluffy without needing additional leavening agents.
- Adjust the amount of boiling water carefully to achieve the right dough consistency—sticky dough may cause dumplings to fall apart.
- Adding the dumplings one at a time helps maintain the broth temperature and ensures even cooking.
- Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste at the end; the soup base and broth already carry a mild seasoning.
- You can substitute turkey for chicken if preferred.
- This recipe can be made ahead; store the soup and dumplings separately and combine when reheating.
