This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you.
Chicken and dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish made with tender chicken simmered alongside vegetables in a savory broth, topped with fluffy, steamed dumplings. This recipe takes about 55 minutes in total and yields 6 servings. The balance of soft, pillowy dumplings with a rich, aromatic base makes it perfect for cold evenings or when a warm, satisfying meal is needed.
The first time I made this dish, the smell of thyme and rosemary reminded me of Portland’s rain-soaked markets where fresh herbs always seem within reach. It’s a recipe that embraces simplicity while delivering so much flavor in every bite.
Table of Contents
- Why is Chicken and Dumplings so special?
- What ingredients do you need for Chicken and Dumplings?
- How do you make Chicken and Dumplings step by step?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Dumplings
- What common mistakes should you avoid when making dumplings?
- What are the best serving ideas and pairings for this dish?
- What easy ingredient swaps can you make for Chicken and Dumplings?
Why is Chicken and Dumplings so special?
Chicken and dumplings stands out for its comforting texture and rich flavor. The tender chicken and vegetables, combined with soft, fluffy dumplings, make it a dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.
- Perfectly balanced textures: The dumplings are soft and pillowy, soaking up the flavorful broth, while the chicken and vegetables add hearty substance.
- One-pot simplicity: This dish doesn’t require juggling multiple pans, making it perfect for weeknights or when you want minimal cleanup.
- Customizable flavor: From herbs to seasoning, the broth can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences or the season.
- Feeds a crowd: With six generous servings, it’s ideal for families or sharing with friends.
What ingredients do you need for Chicken and Dumplings?
The ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings are simple yet flavorful, including chicken, vegetables, herbs, and pantry staples for the dumplings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
The combination of thyme and rosemary adds depth to the broth, while chicken thighs ensure the dish remains tender and flavorful.
How do you make Chicken and Dumplings step by step?
Making Chicken and Dumplings involves cooking the chicken and vegetables in a seasoned broth before topping it with steamed dumplings.
Step 1 — Sauté the onions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
You might also enjoy our vegan butter chicken chickpeas.
Step 2 — Cook the vegetables
Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Step 3 — Add herbs and seasonings
Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, allowing the aromatic flavors to bloom.
Step 4 — Cook the chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the chicken pieces and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 5 — Add peas
Stir in the frozen peas and simmer for an additional 5 minutes while you prepare the dumpling batter.
For more ideas, check out our easy apple cider chicken (gluten.
Step 6 — Make the dumpling batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until just combined.
Step 7 — Steam the dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the dumplings to steam.
Step 8 — Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked through, serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Dumplings
Can I make Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broth mixture ahead of time, but make the dumplings fresh when ready to serve to preserve their texture.
Looking for something similar? Try our grilled chicken green goddess salad:.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the dumplings.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs provide a more tender and flavorful result.
Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
While the chicken and broth base freezes well, the dumplings may lose their texture when reheated. It’s best to freeze the base and add fresh dumplings when serving.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if needed to prevent the dish from drying out.
What common mistakes should you avoid when making dumplings?
To ensure your dumplings turn out perfectly, avoid these pitfalls:
- Lifting the lid too soon: This causes the dumplings to deflate, so keep the lid on during cooking.
- Overmixing the batter: Overworking the batter can make the dumplings dense, so mix until just combined.
What are the best serving ideas and pairings for this dish?
- Side salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Crusty bread: Use it to soak up any leftover broth for a satisfying side.
- Roasted vegetables: Root vegetables like parsnips or squash complement the flavors beautifully.
What easy ingredient swaps can you make for Chicken and Dumplings?
If you’re out of an ingredient or need a substitute, consider these simple swaps:
- Chicken thighs: Swap with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- All-purpose flour: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the dumplings.
- Milk: Dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk works well as a substitute.
Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- large pot
- wooden spoon
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 clove garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalk celery, sliced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 cup chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
- While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the dumplings to steam.
- Once the dumplings are cooked through, serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Loved this recipe? Save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it later! ✨
