If you are craving a cozy, heartwarming meal that wraps you in comfort like a warm hug, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need to make your day better. Tender, juicy chicken simmered with fragrant herbs and vegetables, paired with fluffy, pillowy dumplings cooked right in the broth, creates a dish that’s pure magic in every bite. It’s a classic that brings family and friends together, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you want to savor something truly satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From hearty chicken thighs to fresh vegetables and simple pantry staples, you’ll find everything you need to create a dish that feels homemade and special.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts): Provides tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for shredding into the stew.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter: Helps brown the chicken and bring richness to the base.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 carrots, chopped: Contributes natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Gives an aromatic layer and slight crunch to the broth.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the stew with fragrant warmth.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds earthy and slightly minty notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Enhances freshness and herbal undertones.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses a subtle savoriness into the broth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential to balance and elevate all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional): Adds silkiness and a creamy texture for extra indulgence.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken): Used to gently thicken the stew, if desired.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The main ingredient for making light, fluffy dumplings.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the dumplings rise perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the dumpling dough’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dumplings.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Brings tenderness and flavor to the dumplings.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a vibrant, fresh garnish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, then brown them on both sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful base for your stew. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside—you’ll bring it back later to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook them gently until they soften and start to smell amazing, releasing their natural sweetness into the pot. This combination is crucial for building those rich, comforting flavors that make this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme, dried parsley, and the bay leaf. Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot, cover, and let everything simmer together for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking tenderizes the chicken and allows all the ingredients to mingle and develop a deep, hearty flavor.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot with tongs and shred it using two forks. This pull-apart meat is what makes each bite delightfully tender and easy to enjoy. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it into the flavorful broth so every strand is coated with goodness. If you want a creamier stew, now is the time to stir in the heavy cream for that luscious finish.
Step 5: Thicken the Broth (Optional but Recommended)
To get that perfect, slightly thickened broth, mix the flour with a small amount of water until smooth, then stir this slurry into the stew. Let it simmer for a few minutes until you notice the broth slightly thickens, turning wonderfully rich without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors.
Step 6: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Stir in the milk and melted butter just until everything comes together into a soft dough. Avoid overmixing so your dumplings stay light and fluffy, bringing a perfect contrast to the savory stew beneath.
Step 7: Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the hot stew, making sure they have enough space to puff up. Cover the pot tightly and steam the dumplings for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. This steam traps the heat and moisture needed to cook the dumplings perfectly, resulting in a tender, pillow-like texture that is simply irresistible.
Step 8: Final Touch
Remove the bay leaf and give the stew a gentle stir. For a fresh, vibrant finish, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Your cozy, satisfying Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper add a beautiful pop of color and an aromatic lift to this comfort dish. A drizzle of heavy cream or a pat of butter on top can add extra richness and make it feel like a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Since this recipe is already hearty, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables balances the meal wonderfully. A crusty loaf of bread or soft dinner rolls are also delightful to dip into the thick, flavorful broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe in individual rustic bowls, topped with a handful of fresh herbs for a casual yet inviting presentation. For gatherings, try serving it family-style in a large casserole dish, letting everyone help themselves to the steaming, comforting goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the second serving even more delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to keep the dumplings and stew separate to maintain their texture. Freeze the stew in a sealed container for up to 3 months, and prepare fresh dumplings when ready to serve for the best experience.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the stew smooth and prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add fresh dumplings or biscuits for a delightful meal that tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them so they don’t dry out.
Do I have to use heavy cream?
No, the heavy cream is optional. It adds a creamy richness, but the stew is delicious and comforting without it as well. Feel free to omit it for a lighter version.
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
Dumplings should be fluffy and springy to the touch after steaming for about 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid mid-cook to keep the steam trapped, which is essential for perfect dumplings.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Try adding plant-based protein for extra texture.
What’s the best way to thicken the stew?
Using a flour slurry (flour mixed with a bit of cold water) stirred into the hot stew creates a smooth, velvety thickness. Avoid adding flour directly to hot liquid to prevent lumps.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. Its simplicity, combined with the heartiness of tender chicken and light dumplings, makes it a go-to comfort food that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try making this at home, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection—perfect for sharing with loved ones whenever you want to spread a little cozy happiness.
Print
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a comforting classic featuring tender shredded chicken simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and fluffy homemade dumplings. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this dish combines rich, savory flavors with soft, pillowy dumplings made from scratch, all cooked together in one pot for convenience and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Chicken Stew
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken)
Dumplings
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Stew: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it on both sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables and Simmer: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme, parsley, and the bay leaf. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook gently for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it evenly using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. At this stage, stir in the heavy cream if you want a richer broth.
- Thicken the Broth (Optional): To thicken the broth, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little water to make a smooth slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering stew and cook until the broth thickens slightly.
- Make the Dumplings: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and melted butter and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix to keep dumplings tender.
- Cook the Dumplings: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering stew. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and steam the dumplings over low heat for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time so the dumplings cook properly.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Garnish the stew with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too.
- Heavy cream is optional and adds richness; omit for a lighter stew.
- Do not lift the lid while dumplings are cooking to ensure they steam properly.
- For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking and thickening.
- Leftovers reheat well and the dumplings remain tender.
