Easy and Delicious Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food Everyone Loves

Chicken and dumplings is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate this timeless comfort food in your own kitchen, you’re in the right place. This recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and perfect for any skill level. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal for your family or looking to impress guests with something homemade and delicious, chicken and dumplings delivers in every way.

This guide will walk you through every step, from mixing the dumpling dough to simmering it gently in a rich chicken broth. You’ll learn how to get those fluffy dumplings just right, how to bring together the flavors perfectly, and even some tips for customizing the dish. By the end, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal that feels like home.

What Is Chicken and Dumplings? Understanding This Classic Comfort Food

Chicken and dumplings is a classic American dish that combines tender chicken with soft, doughy dumplings cooked in a flavorful broth. It’s known for its comforting, hearty nature and is often associated with home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and soul-soothing food during cooler months.

The dish has roots that date back centuries, with variations found in different regions across the United States. Some families serve it more like a stew with thick broth and lots of veggies, while others prefer a lighter broth with soft dumplings that almost melt in your mouth. The dumplings themselves are usually made from simple dough—flour, baking powder, butter, and milk—that cooks right in the broth, thickening it naturally.

You might also come across variations called chicken and dumpling casserole, which is a baked version, or frozen chicken and dumplings, which are convenient shortcuts found in many grocery stores. While those can be tasty, nothing beats the fresh, homemade version that you make yourself with love and simple ingredients.

By understanding this background, you can appreciate the dish’s versatility and why it remains a favorite in many households.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Before you start cooking, having your ingredients ready and understanding their roles will help make the process smoother. Here’s a simple list of what you’ll need and some tips for substitutions or alternatives if needed.

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

• Cooked chicken: About 3 cups of shredded or chopped chicken is ideal. You can use leftover roasted chicken, boiled chicken breast, or even a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Chicken broth: Between 6 to 8 cups of broth forms the base of the dish. Using low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness. The broth should be flavorful because it’s the foundation of your dumplings’ cooking liquid.
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups of flour provide the structure for your dumplings. Flour choice can be all-purpose for the best texture, but if you prefer gluten-free options, there are substitutes available.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons of cold butter are cut into the flour to create tender, flaky dumplings.
• Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon helps the dumplings rise and become light instead of dense.
• Salt: To taste. Salt enhances the flavors throughout the dish.
• Milk: About 1 cup of milk is stirred into the flour mixture to bring the dough together. You might need slightly less if the dough feels too sticky.

Ingredients Table

Understanding the quality and role of each ingredient helps you customize the recipe to your taste or dietary needs. For example, if you want richer dumplings, you can swap milk for half-and-half or add a little cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, use chicken breast and low-fat milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process. Making homemade chicken and dumplings may sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple when broken down into clear steps.

Preparing the Dumpling Dough

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and salt to taste. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures your baking powder and salt are evenly distributed, which helps your dumplings rise consistently.
2. Cut in the butter: Using a fork or pastry blender, cut the 2 tablespoons of cold butter into the dry mixture. The goal is to get coarse crumbs that will add tenderness to your dumplings. The butter should still be in small chunks—not melted or fully blended.
3. Add the milk: Gradually stir in about 1 cup of milk using a fork. Mix until the dough forms a ball that holds together but isn’t sticky. You might need to adjust the milk slightly, adding a bit more or less depending on the flour and humidity.

Tip: Work quickly when handling the butter and dough. Cold butter creates flaky dumplings, while too much warmth can make the dough tough.

Rolling and Cutting the Dumplings

4. Flour your workspace: Heavily flour a clean surface to prevent the dough from sticking. You’ll also need a floured rolling pin.
5. Roll the dough thinly: Roll the dough out evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness. The thinner you roll it, the lighter your dumplings will be.
6. Cut the dumplings: Use a floured pizza cutter, knife, or biscuit cutter to slice the dough into roughly 2-inch squares. Don’t stress about perfect shapes—variations add to the rustic charm.
7. Transfer dumplings: Use a floured spatula to move the cut dumplings to a heavily floured plate, layering flour between to prevent sticking. If you’re not cooking immediately, you can store these on a wax-paper-lined cookie sheet with flour or freeze them for later use.

Cooking the Dumplings in Broth

8. Bring the broth to a boil: In a large pot, bring your 6 to 8 cups of chicken broth to a rolling boil.
9. Add dumplings one at a time: Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling broth, stirring carefully after each addition to prevent them from sticking to each other or the pot. The extra flour on the dumplings helps naturally thicken the broth.
10. Simmer the dumplings: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. The dumplings are done when they’re soft and no longer taste doughy. You can test by breaking one open—there should be no raw flour inside.

Adding the Chicken and Final Touches

11. Stir in the cooked chicken: Once the dumplings are cooked through, add your shredded chicken to the pot. Heat through for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
12. Adjust seasoning: Taste the broth and add salt or pepper as needed. Some people like to add a pinch of herbs like thyme or parsley here for extra flavor.

At this point, your homemade chicken and dumplings are ready to serve—rich, warm, and deeply satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Dumplings

When you’re making chicken and dumplings from scratch, a few common questions tend to come up. Whether you’re wondering how to store leftovers or if frozen dumplings can be used, the answers below will help you feel more confident in the kitchen.

Can You Freeze Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze chicken and dumplings, though there are a few things to keep in mind. Freezing works best for the broth and chicken, but dumplings can be a bit more delicate.

• Freezing Before Cooking: If you want to make dumplings ahead of time, prepare the dough, cut it into squares, and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dumplings to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• Freezing After Cooking: Once your chicken and dumplings are fully cooked, let them cool completely. Transfer into an airtight, freezer-safe container. The texture of the dumplings may change slightly upon reheating (they can become a bit softer), but the flavor remains delicious.

Reheating tip: Warm frozen chicken and dumplings gently over low heat. If the broth has thickened too much, stir in a bit of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings With Frozen Dumplings?

Using frozen dumplings is a convenient option when you’re short on time. Here’s how to do it:

• Prepare the broth: Start by heating your chicken broth until it comes to a gentle boil.
• Add the dumplings: Drop frozen dumplings directly into the boiling broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Simmer: Let them cook according to package directions, usually around 15–20 minutes, or until soft and fully cooked.
• Add cooked chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken once the dumplings are done, then simmer for a few extra minutes.

While the taste may differ slightly from homemade dough, frozen dumplings still deliver a comforting result in half the time.

What to Serve With Chicken and Dumplings?

Because chicken and dumplings is a hearty dish, you’ll want lighter side dishes that complement it without overwhelming the meal. Here are a few ideas to round out your table:

• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a fresh, earthy contrast
• A simple garden salad with light vinaigrette to balance richness
• Cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth
• Apple slaw or cranberry sauce to add a sweet-tart component

Pairing it thoughtfully enhances the meal without competing for attention.

What Goes Good With Chicken and Dumplings?

Besides the classics, you can also think outside the box:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts for a crisp, slightly bitter contrast
• Southern-style collard greens to keep with the comfort-food theme
• Pickled vegetables to brighten up the richness of the dish
• Lightly sautéed spinach or kale for a dose of greens that cook quickly

Keep in mind that you want to complement the creamy, starchy texture of chicken and dumplings with something crisp, acidic, or fresh.

What to Eat With Chicken and Dumplings?

You can turn this comforting dish into a full meal with the right drink and dessert:

• Drink pairings: Try sweet iced tea, lemonade, or a light cider
• Dessert ideas: Finish with something light and fruit-based like a peach cobbler, lemon bars, or baked apples
• Appetizer options: A small cup of veggie soup or a fresh salad can help start things off right

Your goal is to balance the warmth and heartiness of the dish with bright, refreshing elements elsewhere in the meal.

Is Chicken and Dumplings the Same as Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Not quite. While the names are similar, the dishes differ in texture and preparation.

• Traditional chicken and dumplings are simmered on the stovetop, with dumplings cooked in broth, giving you a stew-like dish with soft, pillowy dumplings.
• Chicken and dumpling casserole, on the other hand, is typically baked in a dish. It often includes layers of shredded chicken, sometimes vegetables, and biscuit dough or crust-like dumplings baked until golden.

Both are delicious but offer very different experiences. The casserole is heartier and denser, while the stovetop version is lighter and more spoonable.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Dumplings Every Time

Even though this recipe is simple, a few expert techniques can make your chicken and dumplings truly exceptional. Here are some key tips to elevate your dish:

Choose the Right Chicken

• Use cooked bone-in chicken when possible for added flavor. If you boil chicken from raw, save and use the broth—it will be richer than anything from a carton.
• Dark meat like thighs offers more flavor and stays tender longer, but white meat works great, too.

Don’t Overwork the Dough

• Mix your dumpling dough just until it comes together. Over-mixing will activate the gluten, making your dumplings chewy instead of soft and tender.
• Let the dough rest for a few minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and roll thin.

Roll Thin for Light Dumplings

• If your dumplings are too thick, they may end up dense and doughy inside. Rolling them to about 1/8 inch thick ensures they cook evenly and absorb just the right amount of broth.

Add Dumplings One at a Time

• Dropping all your dumplings in at once can cause them to clump. Take your time and stir gently between additions to keep them from sticking together.

Let the Flour Thicken the Broth Naturally

• Don’t add cornstarch or cream unless you’re going for a thick stew-like consistency. The flour coating on the dumplings will naturally thicken the broth as they cook.

Taste as You Go

• The broth is the heart of this dish. Make sure you’re seasoning it with salt and pepper as needed. A bay leaf, thyme, or parsley can also add depth if desired.

Final Notes on Making Chicken and Dumplings

Making chicken and dumplings from scratch doesn’t have to be a weekend-only activity. With a little preparation and the right method, you can create this dish on a weeknight or even freeze portions for future meals.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan:

• Make-ahead tips: Prepare dumpling dough in advance, roll and cut, then freeze raw. Broth and chicken can also be pre-cooked and stored.
• Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat to keep dumplings soft.
• Freezing: For best results, freeze components separately (raw dumplings, cooked chicken, and broth), then combine when ready to cook.

Whether you go traditional or get creative, this dish is endlessly adaptable. You can make it more vegetable-forward, spice it up with herbs, or use it as a base for your own comforting creation.

Conclusion

Chicken and dumplings is more than just a recipe—it’s a symbol of warmth, tradition, and the joy of home cooking. When you make it yourself, you’re not just feeding your body, you’re nourishing your spirit and connecting with a legacy of comfort food that spans generations.

Now that you’ve got all the steps, tips, and serving ideas, you’re ready to make your own perfect batch of chicken and dumplings. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and tell us how it turned out—or share your own twist! If you know someone who loves comfort food, send this recipe their way.

Easy and Delicious Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food Everyone Loves

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• Author: Chef Rina
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

A comforting and simple homemade chicken and dumplings dish made from scratch, perfect for a hearty meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• About 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped

• 6 to 8 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• Salt, to taste

• About 1 cup milk (a little less may be needed)

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Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

• Cut the butter into the dry ingredients using a fork or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Stir in the milk with a fork until the dough comes together into a ball.

• Generously flour a clean work surface. Roll out the dough thinly using a floured rolling pin.

• Using a floured pizza cutter or knife, cut the dough into approximately 2-inch squares. It’s fine if the pieces aren’t perfect.

• Use a floured spatula to transfer the cut dumplings onto a heavily floured plate, layering with flour between the dumplings. If not cooking immediately, layer them on a cookie sheet with wax paper and flour, or freeze for later use.

• Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add dumplings one at a time, stirring gently as you add them to prevent sticking. The flour on the dumplings will help thicken the broth.

• Simmer the dumplings for 15 to 20 minutes, until they are cooked through and no longer doughy.

• Stir in the cooked chicken and heat through. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving (varies based on chicken and broth used)