Lu-Ann Simon November 22, 2025

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Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 can (16 oz) canned biscuits; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

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There’s something undeniably warm and comforting about Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings spent with family or friends, filling your home with aromas that evoke nostalgia and love. The rich, savory broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings come together to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a rainy day or a chilly winter evening, Chicken and Dumplings will bring joy to your table and smiles to those who gather around it.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes Chicken and Dumplings a staple in so many kitchens? This beloved dish combines comfort and convenience, making it a favorite for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

A comforting blend of flavors and textures
Simple and quick to prepare
Perfect for using up leftover chicken
A wholesome one-pot meal that captures the essence of home cooking
Easily customizable to suit your taste

Gather These Ingredients

Before you begin, ensure you have everything you need for this delightful dish. The ingredients play crucial roles in crafting the rich, flavorful experience that Chicken and Dumplings brings to the table. You’ll find a blend of fresh veggies, tender chicken, and convenient dumplings that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 can (16 oz) canned biscuits
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to what you have on hand or personal preference!

Bringing It Together

Cooking Chicken and Dumplings is a breeze and comes together in just a few easy steps. Follow along to create a heart-warming meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. The nutty aroma of melted butter fills the air as you add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, creating a rich base for your dish.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. The soothing sounds of bubbling broth set the stage for the next steps.
Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. At this point, your kitchen will be filled with enticing aromas. Allow everything to mingle and heat through.
Cut the canned biscuits into quarters and drop them into the simmering soup. Watch as they begin to cook, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Cover the pot and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. The dumplings will rise, creating a delightful topping for your soup.
Serve your Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. This dish is sure to warm both belly and soul!

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 25 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 450 (estimate).

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

If you want to simplify your meal prep, consider making some components of Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time. You can chop the vegetables and cook the chicken in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to two days before incorporating everything into the dish. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, just combine the prepped ingredients and follow the cooking instructions as usual.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of Chicken and Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you’d like to keep leftovers longer, consider freezing them for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the Chicken and Dumplings on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup thickens too much. Look for the dumplings to be puffed and heated through as a sign of freshness.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your Chicken and Dumplings experience, consider these delightful pairings:

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
Steamed green beans or broccoli for some extra greens
Buttery garlic bread for a tasty dip into the soup
Homemade cornbread to enjoy with the savory flavors
A fruit salad for a refreshing finish

Variations and Swaps

Feel free to get creative with your Chicken and Dumplings! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap in ground chicken or turkey sausage for a twist on the classic chicken flavor. This offers a leaner option that brings a savory depth to the dish.
Add vegetables like peas or corn for a pop of color and added nutrition.
Try using herb-seasoned canned biscuits for an extra flavor boost;
Top with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of freshness.
Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to change up the flavor profile while keeping the comforting essence intact.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure your Chicken and Dumplings comes out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

Monitor the soup’s simmering heat to avoid overcooking the dumplings.
Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this gives flavors a chance to marry.
Ensure the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution and optimal flavor.
Use a digital thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more herbs if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can. Just cook the chicken thoroughly in the broth before adding the other ingredients. Shred it before returning to the pot.
Why are my dumplings dense?
Dense dumplings may be a result of overworking the dough. Gently mix and handle the biscuit dough, and ensure they are cooked through.
Can I make Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free biscuits and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add in any of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize this dish.
How can I thicken the broth?
For a thicker broth, you can stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water or let the broth simmer longer to reduce it naturally.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Dumplings is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a regular dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings not only nourishment but also connection. So, gather your loved ones, make this delicious dish, and enjoy the comforting embrace of Chicken and Dumplings soon!

Chicken and Dumplings

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free option available

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting one-pot meal featuring shredded chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich broth.

Instructions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cut the canned biscuits into quarters and drop them into the simmering soup.
Cover the pot and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.