If you have been searching for a comforting, hearty meal that warms the soul and satisfies the craving for something truly special, this Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender bites of chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy, flavorful dumplings all swimming in a rich, creamy broth, this dish is like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Each spoonful delivers layers of savory goodness and creamy indulgence that will keep you coming back for more, making it a treasured favorite for weeknights or lazy weekend dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this soul-soothing bowl of goodness. Each component in the Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe plays a key role, from the tender chicken that brings protein and heartiness, to the fresh vegetables that add color and subtle sweetness, and the dumplings that soak up all that creamy flavor beautifully.
- Olive oil: Perfect for browning the chicken and sautéing veggies, adding a subtle fruity base flavor.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and stay tender throughout the stew.
- Onion: Provides a savory, slightly sweet foundation for the stew’s rich flavor.
- Garlic: Adds a fragrant, warm depth to the dish without overpowering it.
- Carrots: Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant orange hue to the stew.
- Celery: Adds a mild earthiness and crisp texture that softens as it cooks.
- Frozen peas: For pops of bright green and a touch of sweetness toward the end of cooking.
- Chicken broth: The liquid base that infuses everything with savory richness and moisture.
- Heavy cream: Turns the broth luxuriously creamy, making each bite utterly indulgent.
- Dried thyme: A classic herb that adds a subtle, woodsy aroma.
- Dried rosemary: A fragrant herb to deepen the flavor profile.
- Bay leaf: Infuses the stew with a gentle herbal warmth while simmering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dumpling batter for fluffy, tender dumplings.
- Baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise light and airy.
- Sugar: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness to the dumplings.
- Salt: Brings out the dumplings’ flavor.
- Garlic powder: Echoes the garlic in the stew and adds nuance.
- Whole milk: Moistens the dumpling batter and creates tender texture.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and a bit of flaky tenderness.
- Egg: Binds the dumpling ingredients together for perfect consistency.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes as a garnish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them until they develop a golden brown color on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the stew a delicious meaty base. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these until they soften and start to release their natural sweetness, around 4 to 5 minutes. This combination forms the flavor foundation, and cooking them in the leftover chicken juices makes each bite truly homemade in taste.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Garlic is one of those magical ingredients that, when gently cooked, brightens the whole dish and sets the stage for the creamy broth to come.
Step 4: Build the Stew Base
Now it’s time for the chicken broth, heavy cream, and herbs. Pour in the broth and cream, then sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 10 minutes to soften the vegetables fully and allow those herbs to infuse their warm flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the Dumpling Batter
While the stew simmers, mix up the dumplings. In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and garlic powder. In another, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—the batter should be thick and slightly sticky for light, fluffy dumplings.
Step 6: Return Chicken & Add Peas
Stir the browned chicken and frozen peas back into the simmering stew. The peas add a fresh pop of color and just the right amount of sweetness to balance the creamy and savory stew.
Step 7: Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter evenly over the stew’s surface. Then cover the pot tightly and let the dumplings steam for 15 to 18 minutes. It’s crucial not to lift the lid during this time, so the dumplings rise perfectly by trapping steam. This step ensures the dumplings stay tender and fluffy, soaking up the flavors beneath.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once the dumplings are puffed and firm to the touch, remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf. The creamy chicken stew and dumplings are now ready to be served hot, ideally garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic, easy garnish to brighten up the bowl both visually and flavor-wise. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a few grates of fresh nutmeg can add a subtle twist that complements the creamy broth perfectly.
Side Dishes
This hearty stew shines best when served as a standalone feast, but a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can add a refreshing crunch. For bread lovers, try warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of that luscious stew.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming family-style presentation, serve the stew in individual rustic bowls with a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream on top. Alternatively, you can sprinkle extra fresh herbs at the table for guests to customize their bowls. This Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe invites you to get cozy and dig in, so presentation that feels welcoming and rustic works beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld better overnight, making the next day’s meal even tastier.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, though the dumplings may change slightly in texture. If you plan to freeze, consider storing the stew and dumplings separately. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the creamy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. If the stew has thickened too much, add a bit of milk or broth to loosen it back to your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and richness to the stew. Just be sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly alongside the vegetables.
Is there a way to make the dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes a binding agent like xanthan gum. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare the stew base in advance and cook the dumplings later?
Definitely. You can make the stew base ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bring it back to a simmer and add the dumpling batter, cooking them fresh for the best rise and texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?
Whole milk or half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative. The stew will be less rich but still creamy and flavorful if you adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?
The dumplings should appear puffed up and feel firm but soft when gently pressed. If you insert a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean, they are perfectly cooked through.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about a bowl of homemade stew with dumplings, and this Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe delivers that comfort and joy effortlessly. From the very first spoonful, you’ll appreciate how the creamy broth, tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy dumplings come together to create a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe your own and share it with the people you love—after all, food tastes best when it’s made with care and shared with friends.
Print
Creamy Chicken Stew and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken stew with fluffy dumplings is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for cozy dinners. Tender chicken pieces and hearty vegetables simmer in a fragrant herb-infused broth enriched with heavy cream. Soft homemade dumplings steam on top, absorbing the stew’s rich flavors, creating a satisfying dish that is both hearty and elegant.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer the stew base: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the stew simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
- Prepare the dumpling batter: While the stew is simmering, in a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; the batter will be thick and slightly sticky.
- Add chicken and peas back and drop dumplings: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir in the frozen peas. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the stew, arranging them evenly.
- Cook dumplings: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings cook for 15-18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking, as the dumplings need to steam and puff up.
- Finish and serve: Once the dumplings are cooked through and firm to the touch, remove the pot from heat. Discard the bay leaf. Serve the creamy chicken stew and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Do not lift the lid while dumplings are cooking to ensure they steam properly.
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- You can substitute frozen peas with fresh when in season.
- For a thicker stew, reduce the chicken broth slightly before adding dumplings.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a bright contrast but is optional.
