Chicken and Dumplings: A Classic Comfort Food Made from Scratch

Introduction

Chicken and Dumplings is one of those timeless dishes that instantly brings comfort to the table. Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it is a recipe that feels like home no matter when it is served. I often turn to this dish when I want something nourishing and familiar, especially on cooler days. Tender pieces of chicken simmer in a rich, savory broth, while soft dumplings cook gently on top, soaking up all that flavor. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that feels generous and filling. I once made this using leftover roasted chicken, and it turned out just as flavorful, proving how flexible the recipe can be. Whether you grew up eating chicken and dumplings or are trying it for the first time, this version delivers classic taste with dependable results.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is comforting, filling, and made with pantry staples. It is a one-pot meal that feeds a family and reheats beautifully. The soft dumplings and savory broth make it both soothing and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs or breasts form the base of the dish and provide tender, flavorful meat that holds up well during simmering.

Chicken broth creates the rich, savory base and brings depth to the overall flavor.

Onion adds sweetness and aroma as it cooks down into the broth.

Carrots contribute natural sweetness and color, balancing the savory elements.

Celery adds subtle earthiness and rounds out the flavor profile.

Garlic enhances the broth with warmth and depth.

Butter adds richness and helps create a velvety texture.

All-purpose flour is used to slightly thicken the broth and give it body.

Milk adds creaminess and softens the overall flavor.

Baking powder helps the dumplings rise and stay light.

Salt enhances all the flavors and ensures proper seasoning.

Black pepper adds mild warmth and balance.

Fresh parsley adds freshness and a clean finish.

Directions

Begin by placing the chicken in a large pot with chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.

In the same pot, add butter and allow it to melt into the broth. Sprinkle in flour and stir gently to slightly thicken the mixture. Pour in the milk and stir until the broth becomes creamy and smooth.

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

To make the dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and milk until a soft dough forms. Drop spoonfuls of dough directly onto the simmering broth.

Cover the pot and cook without lifting the lid for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four to six people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 40 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the consistency.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken and dumplings is easy to adapt. For a richer dish, use half-and-half instead of milk. Boneless rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience. Add peas or corn for extra texture and color. Herbs such as thyme or bay leaf add depth to the broth. For a lighter version, reduce butter and use low-fat milk. You can also make drop-style dumplings larger or smaller depending on preference. Each variation keeps the comforting essence of the dish while tailoring it to your taste.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is hearty and satisfying, providing protein from the chicken and energy from the dumplings. It can be adapted to lower-fat or dairy-free versions with simple substitutions.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Tender Chicken
Simmer gently to keep the chicken moist.

Fluffy Dumplings
Do not overmix the dumpling dough.

Even Cooking
Keep the lid closed while dumplings cook.

Flavor Balance
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it works well and saves time.

Why are my dumplings dense?

Overmixing the dough can make them heavy.

Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, though dumplings may soften slightly when reheated.

Is this dish creamy or brothy?

It is lightly creamy but still soup-like.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.

Do dumplings cook fully on top?

Yes, steam cooks them through when covered.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, peas, corn, or green beans work well.

How do I thicken the broth?

A small amount of flour or cornstarch helps.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it is mild and comforting.

What should I serve with it?

It is a complete meal on its own.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings is a true comfort food classic that never goes out of style. With tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a savory broth, it delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Simple to prepare and deeply comforting, this recipe is one you will return to whenever you need a reliable, home-cooked meal.

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