Prep Time: ~15 minutes
Cook Time: ~35–45 minutes
Total Time: ~50–60 minutes
Yield: ~6 servings
Introduction
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort-food favorite featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth with fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. Cozy, hearty, and satisfying, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you need a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why This Dish Is So Loved
This recipe delivers warm, comforting flavor in every spoonful. Succulent pieces of chicken, soft vegetables, and light, tender dumplings swimming in a flavorful broth make this dish a timeless favorite. Simple to prepare but packed with homestyle goodness, it’s a go-to when you want hearty comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup
- Chicken (boneless breasts or thighs, or shredded rotisserie chicken)
- Carrots, sliced
- Celery, sliced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Salt and pepper
- Dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or bay leaf)
- Olive oil or butter
For the Dumplings
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Butter, melted
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs
The Art of Chicken and Dumplings
Great chicken and dumplings combine a rich, flavorful broth with perfectly fluffy dumplings. Simmering the chicken and vegetables builds depth of flavor, while adding dumplings near the end lets them steam and puff in the hot broth. The result is a hearty, warming dish full of texture and homestyle goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces to the pot.
Pour in chicken broth until ingredients are covered.
Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Remove chicken, shred or chop it, then return it to the pot.
3. Make the Dumpling Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in milk and melted butter to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
4. Add Dumplings to the Soup
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering broth — do not stir once they go in.
Cover the pot and let dumplings cook 10–12 minutes until puffed and cooked through.
5. Serve
Once the dumplings are done, ladle into bowls with plenty of chicken and vegetables.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overmix the dumpling dough — this keeps them light and tender.
- Avoid stirring after adding the dumplings so they rise properly.
- Use quality chicken broth for deeper flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking.
Creative Variations
- Herb-Rich: add fresh thyme or parsley to both broth and dumplings.
- Creamy Version: stir in a splash of cream or milk for a creamier broth.
- Veggie Boost: add peas, corn, or potatoes for extra texture.
- Spicy Twist: add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove; dumplings may soften over time, so enjoy fresh for best texture.
Conclusion
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. With tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s the perfect meal to warm both body and soul.
