Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort dish that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of home in every bite. This classic Southern recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy, pillowy dumplings swimming in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, it delivers heartwarming flavor while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen newbie, mastering Chicken and Dumplings will elevate your comfort food game and satisfy both young and old alike.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!From the aroma that fills your kitchen to the first spoonful that melts in your mouth, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience. With careful seasoning, creamy textures, and perfectly cooked dumplings, it’s no wonder that Chicken and Dumplings remains a timeless favorite in Southern kitchens and beyond.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Authentic Southern flavor – Classic herbs and a creamy broth bring traditional taste to your table.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and minimal prep.
Hearty and filling – Packed with protein, vegetables, and soft dumplings.
Customizable – Adjust creaminess, seasoning, or vegetable mix to your preference.
Budget-friendly – Affordable ingredients that create a restaurant-quality dish.
Kid-approved – Soft dumplings and mild flavors make it perfect for picky eaters.
One-pot convenience – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and enjoy leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – Juicy protein and flavor base.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning and richness.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds natural sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic depth.
2 medium carrots, diced – Vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
2 celery stalks, diced – Adds crisp texture.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Classic earthy herb.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Piney fragrance that elevates flavor.
1 bay leaf – Infuses complexity into the broth.
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended) – Flavorful base.
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream – Creates creamy richness.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for flavor balance.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Fresh finishing touch.
Dumplings
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Key for tender dumplings.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps dumplings rise perfectly.
½ teaspoon salt – Seasoning for dough.
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – Extra aromatic punch.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Moistens and enriches dough.
¾ cup milk – Binds dry ingredients into soft dough.
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – Flavorful touch in dough.
Tip: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients. Organic vegetables and free-range chicken will enhance both flavor and nutritional value.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until browned and cooked through. Browning enhances flavor through Maillard reaction, locking in juices. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and aromatic. This step releases natural sugars, creating depth in your broth.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer; this allows flavors to meld while preserving the creaminess.
Step 4: Return Chicken & Simmer
Add browned chicken back to the pot and simmer for 10–15 minutes. This slow infusion enhances flavor and ensures a harmonious balance between chicken, vegetables, and herbs.
Step 5: Prepare Dumpling Dough
Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense dumplings.
Step 6: Cook Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of dough into simmering broth. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and fully cooked. Dumplings absorb the savory broth, enhancing texture and taste.
Step 7: Final Touches
Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh parsley for bright flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle steaming Chicken and Dumplings into bowls. Sprinkle with additional parsley for color and freshness. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings
H3: How do you make chicken tender for dumplings?
Use thighs or a combination of breast and thighs.
Avoid overcooking; simmer gently.
Sear first to lock in juices.
H3: Can I make dumplings ahead of time?
Dumpling dough is best fresh; pre-made can be stored briefly in the fridge.
Avoid freezing raw dough in soup—it can alter texture.
H3: Can I make Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown chicken separately, then add all ingredients to slow cooker.
Cook on low 4–5 hours; add dumplings in last 30 minutes.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken and Dumplings
Pair with Southern cornbread for authentic flavor.
Serve alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Add a side of green beans or roasted vegetables for freshness.
Crosslink: Try our Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes for surf-and-turf comfort.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze without dumplings for up to 2 months; add fresh dumplings when reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on stove over low heat to maintain creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth can be used for lighter flavor.
For richer taste, combine broth with a splash of heavy cream.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and baking powder for dumplings.
Ensure broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: How do I store leftover dumplings?
Store separately from broth if possible; reheat together to maintain fluffiness.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper browning.
Q: What herbs work best in this dish?
Thyme and rosemary are traditional.
Sage or parsley can be added for extra aromatic layers.
Variations of Chicken and Dumplings
Creamy Chicken with Dumplings: Increase milk or cream for extra richness.
Southern-Style Chicken and Dumplings: Add bacon fat for authentic Southern flavor.
Slow-Cooked Chicken and Dumplings: Use a slow cooker for convenience and deeper flavor.
Chicken and Biscuit Dumplings: Use biscuit dough for quick dumplings.
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings: Traditional dough and simple broth for nostalgia.
Conclusion
Nothing compares to a steaming bowl of Chicken and Dumplings, a dish that offers comfort, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia. With tender chicken, rich broth, and soft dumplings, every spoonful is a hug in a bowl. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or impressing guests, this recipe is versatile, forgiving, and utterly satisfying.