Nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings on a chilly evening. This classic dish, featuring tender shredded chicken in a rich, savory broth with fluffy dumplings, is the perfect way to bring comfort to your dinner table. Whether you grew up eating it or are trying it for the first time, this easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also requires just a few basic pantry staples. With a combination of aromatic vegetables, flavorful broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings, you’ll have a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both hearty and nostalgic, this is the one for you!

The origins of chicken and dumplings trace back to the American South, where it became a staple comfort meal. The dish is believed to have evolved from European dumpling recipes, combining slow-cooked meats with fluffy, doughy dumplings to create a satisfying one-pot meal. You can read more about its history on Wikipedia’s Chicken and Dumplings page.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, there are several variations of this dish to try. Some people prefer a creamy version by adding heavy cream, while others enjoy a thicker, stew-like consistency. No matter your preference, this homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is adaptable and sure to please everyone at the table.

Now, let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and why it’s a must-try for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is the perfect balance of ease, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Simple and quick to make – With just a few basic ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly. No fancy techniques or equipment are required.
• Rich, savory flavor – The combination of chicken broth, aromatic vegetables, and herbs creates a deeply comforting taste.
• The fluffiest dumplings – These dumplings are perfectly soft, soaking up the broth’s delicious flavors while staying light and tender.
• Customizable to your taste – Want a creamier version? Add heavy cream. Love veggies? Toss in peas or mushrooms. Prefer a slow cooker method? That works too!
• A true one-pot meal – Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup easy and stress-free.

If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food, you might also enjoy exploring other one-pot recipes. For more inspiration, check out these one-pot dinner recipes on Pinterest.

A Classic Southern Favorite

This dish is a staple in Southern cooking, where it has been cherished for generations. Many people grew up with their grandmothers making chicken and dumplings from scratch, filling the house with its irresistible aroma. If you’re curious about the traditional dumpling-making process, Wikipedia’s Dumpling page offers insight into different types of dumplings from around the world.

No matter how you make it, this dish is a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients Breakdown

A great dish starts with the right ingredients. This easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create an incredibly flavorful and comforting meal. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll need and why each ingredient is essential.

For the Soup

• Butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the sautéed vegetables.
• Onion (1 small, diced) – Provides a deep, savory base flavor for the broth.
• Carrots (2, sliced) – Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the soup.
• Celery (2 stalks, sliced) – Contributes a subtle crunch and classic soup flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances the aroma and taste of the broth.
• Chicken broth (6 cups) – The heart of the dish, providing a rich and savory base. Using homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought version is recommended. Learn more about chicken broth on Wikipedia.
• Shredded chicken (2 cups, cooked) – You can use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or boiled chicken for convenience. Check out this guide on rotisserie chicken for tips on using it in recipes.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon) – Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
• Dried parsley (1 teaspoon) – Provides a mild, slightly peppery taste that complements the broth.
• Salt (½ teaspoon, or to taste) – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a mild heat and depth to the soup.
• Heavy cream (½ cup, optional) – If you prefer a creamy chicken and dumplings, this addition makes the broth velvety smooth.

For those who love rich, creamy comfort food, you might find inspiration from Pinterest’s Homemade Comfort Food collection.

For the Dumplings

• All-purpose flour (1 cup) – The base of the dumpling dough, giving it structure.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons) – Helps the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best results! Learn more about baking powder’s role in cooking.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of the dumplings.
• Dried parsley (½ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of herbaceous flavor to the dough.
• Milk (½ cup) – Creates a soft and tender dumpling texture.
• Melted butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds moisture and a hint of richness to the dough.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll have everything needed to create a delicious, cozy, and satisfying meal that will quickly become a household favorite!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making this easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe. Follow these simple steps to create a hearty, comforting meal the whole family will love.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
• Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth

• Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add the shredded cooked chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon dried parsley.
• Slowly stir in ½ cup milk and 2 tablespoons melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the dumplings dense.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

• Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the simmering broth. The dumplings will float, so make sure to spread them out.
• Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes. Keeping the lid on is essential, as it allows the dumplings to steam and become light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Final Touches and Serve

• If using, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream to make the soup richer and creamier.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.

For more inspiration, check out these slow cooker variations on Pinterest’s Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings board.

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Tips for the Fluffiest Dumplings

• Don’t overmix the dough – Stir until just combined to keep the dumplings light.
• Drop dumplings gently – Use a spoon to drop them evenly into the broth.
• Cover while cooking – Keeping the lid on helps the dumplings steam and rise properly.
• Simmer, don’t boil – A gentle simmer prevents the dumplings from breaking apart.
• Use fresh baking powder – Old baking powder won’t give the dumplings the lift they need.
• Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick into a dumpling; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Looking for more dumpling-making tips? Check out this Pinterest guide on Fluffy Dumpling Tips.

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Variations & Customizations

This homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is versatile! Here are some ways to customize it:

• Make it creamy – Stir in extra heavy cream for a richer broth.
• Add more vegetables – Mix in peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Spicy version – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Slow cooker method – Cook the soup in a slow cooker, then drop in dumplings during the last hour.
• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free flour and baking powder for the dumplings.
• Dairy-free alternative – Swap butter for olive oil and use almond milk instead of regular milk.

For more cozy meal ideas, check out Pinterest’s Homemade Comfort Food collection.

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Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store:

• Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions:

• The soup can be frozen without the dumplings for up to 2 months.
• To freeze dumplings, place them separately on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating:

• Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring gently. Add extra broth if needed.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to cook them fresh. If made ahead, they can become dense when reheated. Store them separately from the broth to maintain their texture.

Q: Can I use biscuit dough instead?

Yes! Store-bought biscuit dough is a great shortcut. Just cut it into small pieces and drop it into the simmering broth.

Q: What’s the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. If cooking from scratch, boneless chicken thighs provide the most flavor. Learn more about rotisserie chicken here.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the soup on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then add dumplings and cook for an additional hour.

Q: How do I prevent dumplings from being gummy?

• Don’t overmix the dough.
• Keep the lid on while cooking.
• Ensure the soup is gently simmering, not boiling.

For more dumpling techniques, check out Wikipedia’s Dumpling Guide.

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