Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love how comforting and hearty Chicken and Dumplings can be on a cool evening. This dish brings me back to family gatherings where the aroma of savory chicken filled the house. With tender chicken, rich broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. I appreciate how simple it is to bring this recipe to life, especially when I can make it all in one pot. It’s perfect for sharing or curling up on the couch with a big bowl all to myself!

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:01:34.709Z

One time while experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to combine my love for chicken with a cozy dumpling recipe. The result was nothing short of magical! I meticulously timed the process of cooking the chicken to ensure it stayed juicy, and I was thrilled with the fluffy dumplings that floated effortlessly in the broth.

Each bite was a revelation; the flavors melded perfectly, and I learned that the key is to not overwork the dumpling dough. They need to be light and airy, otherwise, they turn dense. This unforgettable recipe has become a staple in my home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty chicken broth that warms the soul
Fluffy dumplings that soak up all the flavor
Easy one-pot meal that saves on cleanup

The Importance of Broth

The chicken broth is the heart of this Chicken and Dumplings recipe, so choosing a quality one can make all the difference. Homemade broth is ideal for rich flavor, but store-bought varieties can work just as well. Look for low-sodium options to control the salt level, which allows you to adjust flavors better as the dish simmers. Aim for a broth that has a good aroma and appearance, indicating a depth of flavor that will infuse your dumplings and chicken beautifully.

When simmering, the broth should become fragrant within the first few minutes, a sure sign that the ingredients are melding together. As the chicken cooks, it releases its juices into the broth, enhancing the overall taste. If you notice a watery consistency, allow the broth to reduce slightly by simmering uncovered for a few more minutes, concentrating the flavors and increasing the richness.

Dumpling Dynamics

The dumplings in this recipe are intended to be fluffy and tender rather than overly dense. Therefore, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the milk and melted butter. Lumps in the mixture are acceptable and preferred, as they result in lighter dumplings. Using a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dumpling batter ensures they are uniformly sized, allowing them to cook evenly and maintain a similar texture.

For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs or spices into the dumpling mixture. A pinch of garlic powder or a handful of chopped parsley would provide additional depth. Remember that the dumplings will expand as they cook, so make sure to space them apart in the broth for optimal steaming. If you prefer a heartier option, you can also fold in shredded cheese or cooked bacon before dropping them into the simmering pot.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Chicken and Dumplings dish:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chicken and Dumplings:

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, combine chicken thighs, broth, carrots, celery, onion, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and melted butter until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dumplings light. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the simmering broth.

Finish Cooking

Cover the pot and cook for an additional 15 minutes to allow the dumplings to steam. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This can brighten up the dish wonderfully!

Make-Ahead and Storage

Chicken and dumplings can indeed be made ahead of time. To do this, follow the first step of the recipe to cook the chicken and broth but wait until you’re ready to serve to add the dumplings. This prevents them from becoming soggy after sitting in the broth for too long. Store the chicken and broth in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, reheat the broth and add the dumplings for fresh results.

Freezing this dish is also a possibility, although I recommend storing the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. Freeze the chicken and broth together for up to three months, and prepare a fresh batch of dumplings when you’re ready to reheat. To reheat, gently simmer the broth, then add the frozen dumplings, allowing for an additional 10 minutes of cooking time since they’re frozen.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a hearty stand-alone meal, but there are wonderful sides that can enhance your dining experience. A light mixed green salad with a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the dish. You might also consider serving with crusty bread to help soak up the delicious broth. For those looking to scale up, consider roasted vegetables on the side, which can add nutrition and flavor to the meal.

Another variation to consider is toppings. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds color but also a pop of fresh flavor. For a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes can provide an exciting twist, catering to those who enjoy a bolder flavor profile. I often customize mine with a touch of cayenne or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the dish and elevate the comforting flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but thighs provide more flavor and moisture.

→ What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

It's delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broth in advance; just make the dumplings fresh before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.