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 thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings is a comforting classic that's perfect for any occasion. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory broth that will warm your soul.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-05T05:43:51.467Z

This traditional dish is a family favorite, loved for its rich flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for chilly evenings, it's a recipe that brings everyone to the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A warm and comforting meal perfect for any season
Fluffy dumplings that soak up the delicious broth
Simple ingredients come together for maximum flavor
Great for leftovers and meal prep

      

A Classic Comfort Food

Chicken and dumplings is a dish that has been loved for generations, often associated with family gatherings and chilly evenings. This comforting meal embodies the essence of home cooking, combining tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich broth. It's not just a dish; it's an experience that evokes nostalgia and warmth, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast.

The beauty of chicken and dumplings lies in its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent and satisfying. The hearty broth, flavored with fresh vegetables and herbs, provides the perfect backdrop for the tender chicken and soft dumplings, making every bite a delightful experience.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of chicken and dumplings is its versatility. This recipe is not only perfect for serving fresh but also makes excellent leftovers. The flavors deepen and meld together when stored in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

To store, simply let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore the soup's consistency, ensuring that the dumplings remain tender and fluffy.

Customizing Your Dish

While this recipe is delicious as is, it also invites a variety of modifications to suit your taste. Consider adding different vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to give the broth a unique twist.

For those looking to lighten the dish, substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs, or use low-sodium broth. You can even make the dumplings with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a personalized version that your family will love.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Broth

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
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 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken & Broth

In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the chicken thighs, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in milk and melted butter until just combined. Fold in fresh parsley.

Cook the Dumplings

After the chicken has cooked for 20 minutes, drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the pot. Cover and let them steam for another 15 minutes or until they are fluffy and cooked through.

Serve

Once the dumplings are done, serve hot in bowls, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes before serving for the best taste.

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

To achieve the perfect dumplings, it’s essential not to overmix the batter. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for light, fluffy dumplings. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings, which can ruin the texture of your dish.

Additionally, make sure to drop the dumpling batter directly into the simmering broth. Covering the pot while they cook is crucial, as it traps steam and helps the dumplings rise and cook evenly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook, as this can make them tough.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and dumplings dish can be served as a standalone meal, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette can serve as a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty flavors of the dish.

For a cozy touch, consider serving the meal with freshly baked bread or rolls. They are perfect for dipping into the savory broth, enhancing the overall dining experience. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, can also complement the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and keep the flavors intact. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or water as needed to restore the original consistency.

If you choose to freeze the chicken and dumplings, consider freezing the broth and dumplings separately. This will help retain the dumplings' texture when reheated. Simply thaw and heat them separately before combining them for a quick meal that tastes freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs add more flavor and moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and dumplings, but the dumplings may lose some texture when reheated.

→ What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a side salad for a balanced meal.