If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is just what you need. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich broth with soft vegetables create a flavorful base, while fluffy dumplings cooked right in the pot add that perfect pillowy texture that makes this dish an all-time favorite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve on a cozy weekend with family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role. From the tender chicken thighs that provide richness to the fresh carrots and celery that add natural sweetness and color, every component is essential. And those dumplings? They’re a simple combination but bring the texture that turns this comfort dish into a classic.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These give a juicy, flavorful base that stays tender throughout cooking.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory depth without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced: Add sweetness and a pop of color to the broth.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Enhance the broth with an aromatic crunch and balance the sweetness of the carrots.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dumplings, offering structure and fluffiness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise and stay light.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and a rich texture to the dumpling batter.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Brings a subtle buttery flavor to the dumplings that makes them irresistible.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season your chicken thighs and brown them for about five minutes on each side — this step locks in flavor and gives the broth a rich base. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside while you prepare the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, toss in the chopped carrots and celery. Sauté them for about three minutes until they soften up and release their natural sweetness. This builds layers of flavor right in your pot, making every spoonful delicious.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and return the browned chicken thighs to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where your broth starts to get infused with the tender chicken and aromatic vegetables — the heart of this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe.
Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter
While the broth simmers, mix the flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, milk, and melted butter in a separate bowl until smooth. This simple batter transforms into the soft, fluffy dumplings that make this dish unforgettable.
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of your prepared batter into the simmering broth. Be sure to cover the pot tightly — this traps steam that helps the dumplings rise and cook evenly. Let them cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid to keep the heat consistent.
Step 6: Check and Serve
Use a toothpick to gently test the dumplings; if it comes out clean, they’re perfectly done. Serve your Chicken and Dumplings hot, ladling extra broth into each bowl for that soul-soothing finish.
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a lively green contrast and a touch of freshness that brightens the dish. A grind of black pepper on top can also enhance the comforting flavors without overpowering the natural taste.
Side Dishes
This recipe is hearty on its own, but if you want to make it a fuller meal, consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A slice of crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken and dumplings in individual ramekins or rustic bread bowls. It adds a rustic charm and makes the meal feel even more special when sharing with loved ones.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken and dumplings keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to reheat gently so the dumplings don’t get tough.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but be aware that dumplings might lose some of their fluffiness once thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the dumplings absorb some broth again. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can dry out the dumplings.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more flavor and stay moist longer, chicken breasts can be substituted; just be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat tender.
What can I add to the dumpling batter for extra flavor?
You can mix in herbs like thyme or parsley, or even a bit of grated cheese, to create dumplings with a special twist that complements the broth nicely.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omitting the chicken, you can enjoy a vegetarian version. Consider adding mushrooms or tofu for added protein.
How thick should my dumpling batter be?
The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned into the broth but still soft enough to drop easily. It should resemble a thick pancake batter.
Why is it important not to lift the lid while cooking dumplings?
Keeping the lid on traps steam in the pot, which helps the dumplings rise and cook evenly. Lifting the lid releases steam and can result in dense or undercooked dumplings.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe feels like a culinary hug that warms both heart and home. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and those soft, fluffy dumplings is hard to beat. I promise once you make this, it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals. So grab your pot, gather those simple ingredients, and enjoy the cozy goodness that only homemade chicken and dumplings can bring!
Print
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
A comforting and classic Chicken and Dumplings recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful broth with homemade fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Olive oil, for browning chicken
- Salt, to taste
Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and brown them for about five minutes until golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped carrots and celery. Sauté until softened, about three minutes, to build flavor for the broth.
- Simmer Chicken and Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the browned chicken back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Prepare Dumpling Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, whole milk, and melted butter until you have a smooth batter without lumps.
- Add Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook for 15 minutes undisturbed, allowing the dumplings to puff up and cook through.
- Finish and Serve: Check dumplings with a toothpick for doneness. Once cooked, serve the chicken and dumplings hot with plenty of the flavorful broth.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tender and juicy meat that stays flavorful.
- Do not lift the lid while dumplings are cooking to ensure they rise properly.
- Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a richer flavor, you can use whole chicken broth or add herbs like thyme or parsley.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
