Chicken and Dumplings: A Hearty Classic Comfort Dish

Few dishes evoke the feeling of home quite like a warm bowl of Chicken and Dumplings . This beloved Southern staple is the ultimate in cozy comfort food—tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth and topped with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the flavor.

Whether you’re looking to recreate your grandmother’s famous recipe or are trying this dish for the first time, this guide will walk you through how to make the best Chicken and Dumplings from scratch. We’ll also show you how to adapt it for different diets, share expert cooking tips, and answer all your most common questions.

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🍗 Why You’ll Love Chicken and Dumplings

This dish has stood the test of time—and here’s why:

• Comforting and hearty : Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little soul-soothing.
• One-pot meal : Easy to make and clean-up is a breeze.
• Customizable : Add veggies, swap herbs, or adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
• Budget-friendly : Uses simple ingredients that stretch far.
• Family favorite : Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Versatile : Works as a main dish, side, or even a casserole version.

It’s no wonder Chicken and Dumplings has been passed down through generations!

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🧾 Ingredients Needed (Serves 6–8)

For the Chicken and Broth:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 tbsp melted butter or oil

Optional : Fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for garnish

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Chicken and Dumplings is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it right.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned on both sides (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Return the chicken to the pot.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Dumpling Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir in milk and melted butter until a thick dough forms.

Step 5: Add Dumplings to the Pot

1. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth, spacing them out slightly.
2. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes without lifting the lid—this helps the dumplings rise properly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
2. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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🥟 What Makes the Best Dumplings?

The secret to light, fluffy dumplings lies in the technique:

• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix just until combined to avoid tough dumplings.
• Use cold ingredients – Cold butter and milk help create a lighter texture.
• Don’t peek while cooking – Lifting the lid too early can cause dumplings to collapse.
• Drop, don’t roll – Spooning the dough into the pot gives a rustic, tender result.

For extra richness, stir a tablespoon of heavy cream into the dumpling dough.

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🍲 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~400
Protein	~25g
Fat	~10g
Carbs	~50g
Fiber	~2g
Net Carbs	~48g
Sugar	~4g
Sodium	~600mg

Note: Values may vary depending on brand of broth, flour type, and added toppings.

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🥘 Variations for Different Diets

Whether you’re watching carbs, avoiding gluten, or eating plant-based, there’s a version of Chicken and Dumplings for you.

Keto-Friendly Chicken and Dumplings

• Use almond flour or coconut flour for the dumplings
• Replace regular milk with unsweetened almond milk
• Use low-carb baking powder or xanthan gum to bind
• Add extra fat with butter or heavy cream in the broth

Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings

• Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• Ensure broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free
• Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the broth if needed

Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

• Replace chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or vegan chicken strips
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth
• Substitute dairy in dumplings with flax eggs, oat milk, and coconut oil
• Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy depth of flavor

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

1. Combine chicken, broth, vegetables, and seasonings in the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
3. Prepare dumpling dough separately and drop into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

1. Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor – If using bone-in thighs, remove meat before adding dumplings.
2. Thicken the broth – For a heartier soup-like consistency, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the broth before adding dumplings.
3. Rest the dumplings – Letting them sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking allows them to firm up.
4. Double the batch – This dish freezes well for future meals.
5. Add greens – Stir in chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use store-bought dumplings?

A: Yes! Canned or frozen biscuit-style dumplings work in a pinch. Just drop them into the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions.

Q: How long does Chicken and Dumplings last in the fridge?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days .

Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?

A: Yes! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Q: What kind of chicken should I use?

A: Boneless, skinless breasts are easiest, but thighs offer more flavor. Rotisserie chicken works well for a shortcut version.

Q: Are dumplings the same as biscuits?

A: No. Dumplings are typically softer and made with milk rather than eggs and butter, giving them a more delicate texture.

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🌐 The History of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings has roots in European peasant cooking, where resourceful cooks used scraps of meat and simple dough to make filling meals. It became especially popular in the American South, where it was often referred to as “a poor man’s feast.”

Over time, it evolved into a beloved Southern comfort dish, served at family dinners, church suppers, and holiday tables. Today, Chicken and Dumplings remains a symbol of warmth, tradition, and home-cooked love.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Make your Chicken and Dumplings shine with these great pairings:

• Crusty sourdough or cornbread
• Coleslaw or garden salad
• Roasted or mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans or peas
• Garlic bread or rolls

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🧑‍🍳 Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a steaming bowl of Chicken and Dumplings . Whether you’re making it for the first time or recreating a cherished family recipe, this comforting dish brings people together and nourishes both body and soul.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy homemade Chicken and Dumplings any night of the week—even if you’re short on time or cooking for a crowd.

So go ahead, grab your biggest pot, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the aroma of pure comfort.

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