The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings

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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-05T17:30:22.962Z

This recipe for Chicken & Dumplings has been passed down through generations, loved for its warming flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for Sunday dinners or any time you crave comfort food!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A filling and satisfying meal that's perfect for all ages
Deliciously seasoned chicken that infuses flavor into the broth
Fluffy dumplings that soak up the rich flavors of the soup

      

A Comforting Classic

Chicken and dumplings is a timeless dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Originating from the Southern United States, this meal is often associated with family gatherings and cozy evenings. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a flavorful broth with soft, fluffy dumplings creates a satisfying experience that can brighten even the coldest days.

The rich flavors of the broth, infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables, make each bite a delightful experience. Whether you're serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or at a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. It’s not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt offering that brings people together around the table.

Ingredients That Matter

The heart of any great chicken and dumplings recipe lies in its ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality chicken and homemade broth elevates the dish to new heights. The chicken breast adds a tender texture, while the broth serves as the foundation of flavor, enhanced by the natural sweetness of carrots and the aromatic profile of onions and garlic.

Don't overlook the importance of seasoning! Herbs like thyme not only contribute depth to the broth but also complement the chicken wonderfully. The dumplings, made from simple pantry staples, are what truly set this dish apart. Their light and fluffy texture is perfect for soaking up the rich, savory broth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This chicken and dumplings recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you're looking to create a comforting family meal or impress guests at a dinner party, this dish fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.

Additionally, leftovers are just as satisfying. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect meal to enjoy the next day. Just reheat and savor the deliciousness all over again. This dish is not only filling but also brings a sense of home and comfort that everyone craves.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Broth

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

For the Dumplings

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

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting the cooking process for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.

Sauté for about 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined. Do not overmix.

Cook the Dumplings

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

Serve hot and enjoy your warm bowl of Chicken & Dumplings!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your chicken and dumplings, it's important to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding the broth. This allows for the meat to become infused with the flavors of the soup. Additionally, be careful not to overmix your dumplings; a light hand will yield the fluffiest results.

Consider experimenting with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. While thyme is traditional, adding a pinch of rosemary or sage can introduce an exciting twist to the flavor profile. Adjusting the seasoning to your preference helps create a personalized version of this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken and dumplings in deep bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad makes for a complete meal. For added richness, consider drizzling a bit of cream over the top before serving.

Pair this dish with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, for an elegant touch. The acidity in the wine complements the savory flavors of the chicken and broth, enhancing the overall dining experience. Alternatively, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade can provide a nice contrast to the hearty meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this chicken and dumplings dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the dumplings.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. This allows you to keep the dumplings fresh and fluffy when you reheat them. Simply thaw and reheat the broth, then add freshly made dumplings to ensure a delicious meal any time you crave comfort food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the broth.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth in advance. Just add the dumplings when ready to serve.

→ What if my dumplings are too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and ensure you are using fresh baking powder.

→ Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?

Certainly! You can use turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.