Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 egg

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

A comforting classic that combines tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:29:44.045Z

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the table. The tender chicken simmered in a savory broth, combined with fluffy dumplings, makes for a perfect meal any day of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying meal that warms the soul
Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a rich broth
Fluffy dumplings that soak up all the flavors
Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. It's a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a satisfying meal that wraps you in warmth. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Home-cooked meals have a unique way of bringing people together. This Chicken and Dumplings recipe not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul. Preparing this dish can become a cherished family tradition, where everyone contributes to the process, whether it's chopping vegetables or mixing the dumpling batter. Sharing a meal made with love strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Chicken and Dumplings is not just a meal; it's a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, celebrating a special event, or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, this recipe fits perfectly. It can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings or made in smaller batches for intimate dinners, making it a go-to recipe for any cook.

Additionally, this dish allows for creativity in the kitchen. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or add herbs that suit your taste. You can even experiment with different types of protein, such as turkey or even a vegetarian alternative, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Cooking Chicken and Dumplings is not only about following the recipe; it's about mastering the technique. Start by ensuring the chicken is cooked to perfection. Simmering it gently in the broth allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meat tender. Avoid boiling the chicken too aggressively, as this could lead to dry meat and a less flavorful broth.

When it comes to the dumplings, the key is to mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough dumplings, which is the opposite of what you want. The dumplings should be light and fluffy, soaking up the rich broth while adding a delightful texture to the dish. With a little practice, you'll find the perfect balance that makes your dumplings a highlight of the meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 egg

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped for the best cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In a large pot, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and egg. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

Serve

Remove the pot from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Chicken and Dumplings warm!

Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Chicken and Dumplings is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the dumplings may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to keep the moisture in. Enjoying this comforting dish again the next day is like having a warm hug all over again!

Pairing Suggestions

When serving Chicken and Dumplings, consider pairing it with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. A light vinaigrette can enhance the meal without overpowering the rich flavors of the dish. You could also serve some crusty bread or homemade biscuits on the side to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.

For a complete dining experience, a glass of white wine, like a Chardonnay, complements the flavors beautifully, while a light herbal tea can be a soothing non-alcoholic option. These pairings elevate the meal, making it not just dinner but a delightful experience to savor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay moist during cooking.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

→ Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

It's best to make the dumplings fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and broth in advance.

→ What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.