Comfort in a Bowl: Cozy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe You’ll Love

When it comes to soul-soothing meals that warm both your kitchen and your heart, Chicken and Dumplings Recipe sits high on the comfort food list. This cozy classic blends tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft, fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth that’s nothing short of love in a bowl. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic family favorite or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes.

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What Are Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and dumplings is a traditional Southern dish where seasoned chicken is simmered in a savory broth and topped with pillowy dumplings made from biscuit dough or flour-based batter. The dumplings cook directly in the broth, absorbing all the flavor while helping to thicken the soup. The result is rich, filling, and oh-so-satisfying.

How Can You Tell When Dumplings Are Done?

A foolproof way to know dumplings are ready is to insert a toothpick or fork into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re done. Also, finished dumplings should be firm but still light and fluffy. Avoid overcooking, as this can make them dense or gummy.

Why You’ll Love It

This recipe is a perfect blend of hearty and homemade:

• One-pot comfort: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love it.
• Budget-conscious: Simple pantry ingredients go a long way.
• Versatile: Add peas, corn, or your favorite veggies to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and dumplings are filling on their own, but you can pair them with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
• Buttery biscuits or cornbread
• A light, citrusy dessert like lemon bars

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

• 2 lbs. bone-in skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt/Pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ¾ cup frozen peas
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk

For the Dumplings:

• 1-1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 2 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the chicken

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and sear until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

• In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 3: Simmer

• Add the butter and whisk until melted. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, whisking continuously, until fully incorporated, about 2 minutes.
• Return chicken to the pot and Slowly stir in the chicken stock. Add frozen peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes.

Step 4: Shred chicken

• Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot. Add cream or milk if using.

Step 5: Make dumpling dough

• In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Cook the dumplings

• Drop tablespoon-size dough balls into the soup. Cover and cook until dumplings have quadrupled in size and have a biscuit-like texture, about another 15 minutes. 

Step 6: Test and serve

• Check dumplings with a toothpick for doneness. Once fluffy and cooked through, serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: While the chicken stew freezes well, dumplings may become mushy when thawed. For best results, freeze the stew base only and make fresh dumplings before serving.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if too thick.

Nutrition Per Serving

(Estimates based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 657kcal
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Cholesterol: 136mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 1410mg
• Potassium: 793mg

Note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Final Thoughts

• Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving something homey, chicken and dumplings never disappoint. It’s a dish filled with love, flavor, and tradition—perfect for family dinners, comfort cravings, or sharing with a friend. Now that you have the ultimate guide, go ahead and whip up a batch of this beloved comfort food classic.
• Don’t forget to check out our recommended kitchen tools and recipes on our website, myhomewish.com, to streamline prep and elevate your cooking game.