There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm bowl of Chicken & Dumplings, especially when the chill of evening settles in. I discovered this classic Southern dish on a lazy Sunday, as I sought to warm both my kitchen and my heart. The soothing aroma of simmering chicken mingling with herbs wafted through my home, wrapping me in nostalgia and comfort.
Imagine fluffy dumplings gently rising in a creamy broth, soaking up all the savory flavors of tender chicken and aromatic vegetables. This recipe has become a staple in my household, not just for its rich taste but for its ease. With minimal prep and just one pot, you can create a wholesome meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
Join me in creating this heartwarming dish that feels like a hug in a bowl—absolutely ideal for a cozy night in or whenever you need a touch of comfort food magic!
Why is Chicken & Dumplings so beloved?
Heartwarming Comfort: Nothing beats the cozy feeling of enjoying a bowl of Chicken & Dumplings while snuggled up at home.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze—keeping your kitchen mess-free!
Fluffy Dumplings: Each dumpling is light and tender, soaking up the savory broth for a delicious bite.
Quick to Prepare: Packed with flavor, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy nights.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or family dinners, and watch everyone relish this classic dish!
Chicken & Dumplings Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create the most comforting Chicken & Dumplings!
For the Soup Base
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Cooking fat for sautéing vegetables; feel free to use vegetable oil as a substitute.
- Large yellow onion, finely chopped – Adds flavor and sweetness to the soup; no substitutions necessary.
- Medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped – Provides sweetness and color; substitute with parsnips for a unique twist.
- Stalk celery, finely chopped – Contributes a fresh, crisp taste; can be omitted if not available.
- Dried oregano – Adds an herbaceous flavor; fresh oregano may be used at triple the amount.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of all ingredients; adjust to taste if using table salt.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds mild heat and depth of flavor; white pepper can be used as an alternative.
- Cloves garlic, finely chopped – Provides aromatic flavor; can substitute with garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove).
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts – Core proteins providing substance; use all thighs or all breasts, depending on your preference.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Forms the soup base, adding moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is a great alternative.
- Sprigs of thyme – Adds aromatic depth to the soup; dried thyme can substitute, using 1 tsp.
For the Dumplings
- All-purpose flour – The main structure for dumplings, keeping them light; gluten-free flour can be used for gluten-free dumplings.
- Baking powder – A leavening agent to ensure fluffy dumplings; omit entirely for denser dumplings.
- Large egg – Binds the dumpling ingredients together; a flaxseed meal (1 tbsp + 3 tbsp water) can substitute for a vegan option.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; substitute with milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar) for buttermilk.
- Unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness to the dumplings; coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
- Heavy cream – Enhances richness in the soup; half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter version.
For Garnishing
- Chopped fresh parsley – Fresh garnish that adds color and brightness; can be replaced with chives or omitted altogether.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s create a delicious bowl of Chicken & Dumplings that warms your soul!
How to Make Chicken & Dumplings
-
Prepare Soup Base: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 7 minutes, until the onion turns translucent.
-
Add Aromatics: Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Add 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
-
Simmer Soup: Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, add 2 sprigs of thyme, and 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Shred chicken and return to the pot.
-
Make Dumpling Batter: In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a well, combine 1 large egg, 1 cup of buttermilk, and ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter; mix until just combined.
-
Combine Ingredients: Stir the shredded chicken and ½ cup of heavy cream into the broth. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup.
-
Cook Dumplings: Cover the pot and simmer for about 5 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
-
Serve: Divide the comforting soup into bowls, season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of chives for extra flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings?
Cozy up and elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of your Chicken and Dumplings.
-
Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, enhancing each bite with its satisfying crunch. It’s the classic companion that every bowl of soup deserves.
-
Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad of mixed greens, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish, making it a balanced meal.
-
Steamed Vegetables: Bright, steamed veggies such as broccoli or green beans bring color and nutrition to the table. Their lightness beautifully offsets the creamy richness of the soup.
-
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a soul-satisfying side. They offer a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy dumplings.
-
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly cornbread enhances the Southern charm of the meal. Serve warm for a delightful bread option that pairs perfectly with the soup.
-
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sweet iced tea or tart lemonade complements the meal while cleansing the palate, making each bite of chicken and dumplings feel indulgent.
-
Homemade Apple Pie: For dessert, nothing feels more comforting than a slice of warm apple pie topped with vanilla ice cream. It concludes your meal on a sweet, nostalgic note, reminding everyone of home.
Expert Tips for Chicken & Dumplings
-
Use a Large Pot: To prevent overcrowding, use a Dutch oven or large pot to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.
-
Don’t Overmix Batter: To keep your dumplings fluffy, mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings.
-
Sear the Chicken: For deeper flavor, consider searing the chicken in olive oil before adding it to the soup base. This adds a rich depth to your Chicken & Dumplings.
-
Thermometer Tip: Confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety and perfect tenderness.
-
Garnish Freshly: Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top before serving; it adds a vibrant look and enhances the flavor beautifully.
Chicken & Dumplings Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and create your own delicious twist!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free version that adds a subtle sweetness.
- Vegetable Boost: Add frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious, colorful addition.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the broth for a warming heat that elevates the dish.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs like dill or rosemary for a fragrant twist on the traditional flavor profile.
- Whole Wheat Dumplings: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier, nutty flavor in your dumplings.
- Sautéed Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving to add a vibrant green and extra nutrients.
- Chicken Variation: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation without sacrificing flavor; just add it towards the end of cooking.
- Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth, enhancing both texture and flavor in your soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Chicken & Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base, including the sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken, up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate the soup in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat the soup on the stove until boiling before adding the dumpling batter. The dumplings can be mixed fresh right before serving to ensure they’re light and fluffy—after all, nobody wants soggy dumplings! By prepping the soup early, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights while still enjoying all the comforting flavors of this beloved dish just as delicious as when freshly made.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken & Dumplings
- Room Temperature: Serve your Chicken & Dumplings fresh for the best flavor; if left out, consume within 2 hours for safety.
- Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (sans dumplings) in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Dumpling Storage: Keep dumplings separate when storing to maintain their texture; freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
Chicken & Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for Chicken & Dumplings?
Absolutely! For Chicken & Dumplings, boneless, skinless chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture compared to breasts. However, if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work well too. Just ensure they are fresh with no dark spots, indicating age. Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible!
How should I store leftover Chicken & Dumplings?
When storing your delectable Chicken & Dumplings, it’s best to keep the dumplings separate from the soup to maintain their texture. Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze the soup (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Can I freeze Chicken & Dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze Chicken & Dumplings, allow the soup to cool completely. Then, ladle it into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to leave some room for expansion. For the best quality, freeze the soup without the dumplings. They can be frozen separately by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a bag for up to 3 months.
What if my dumplings turn out dense?
Very! Dense dumplings can be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. To avoid this, stir the ingredients just until combined. If the batter feels too thick, you can add a splash of buttermilk to moisten it. Always remember, fluffy dumplings need a gentle touch!
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken & Dumplings?
Absolutely! If you’re making Chicken & Dumplings for anyone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the recipe. Use gluten-free flour for the dumplings to make them suitable for gluten intolerances. For dairy-free options, substitute buttermilk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Always check for chicken allergies, especially if cooking for guests!
What should I do if my soup is too salty?
If your Chicken & Dumplings end up a bit too salty, don’t worry! You can balance it out by adding more unsalted chicken broth or water. Another trick is to toss in a raw, peeled potato; it absorbs excess salt as it cooks. Simply remove it after about 15 minutes and your soup should be less salty!
These Chicken & Dumplings Recipe FAQs should help you enjoy every comforting spoonful without a hitch!
Comforting Chicken & Dumplings That Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 7 minutes, until the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Add 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, add 2 sprigs of thyme, and 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Shred chicken and return to the pot.
- In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a well, combine 1 large egg, 1 cup of buttermilk, and ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter; mix until just combined.
- Stir the shredded chicken and ½ cup of heavy cream into the broth. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup.
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 5 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
- Divide the comforting soup into bowls, season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.