Easy Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Family Favorite!

Name: Easy Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Family Favorite!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Posted on July 1, 2025

Dinner

Introduction to Easy Chicken and Dumplings

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I love making Easy Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. It’s a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this comforting family favorite will have everyone asking for seconds, and it’s so simple to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken and Dumplings

What’s not to love about Easy Chicken and Dumplings? This dish is a lifesaver for busy nights, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting bowl of goodness that warms the soul. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you! With its hearty ingredients, it’s a meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters in your family.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breast: Diced chicken breast is the star of the show, providing lean protein and a tender texture.
Chicken broth: A flavorful base that brings everything together. You can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
Carrots: Sliced carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.

Celery: Chopped celery contributes a nice crunch and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Onion: Diced onion adds depth and richness to the broth, making it even more comforting.
All-purpose flour: This is the main ingredient for the dumplings, giving them that fluffy texture we all love.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the dumplings rise and become light and airy.
Salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
Milk: Adds moisture to the dumpling batter, making them soft and tender.

Butter: Melted butter gives the dumplings a rich flavor and a lovely golden color.

For those looking to customize, consider adding peas or corn for extra veggies. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor even more. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!

Exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the grocery store.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by grabbing a large pot. Combine the diced chicken breast, chicken broth, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion. The broth should cover the chicken and veggies nicely. This is where the magic begins! As the ingredients mingle, they create a flavorful base. I love watching the colors come together, making it feel like a warm embrace. Make sure everything is well mixed, so each bite is packed with flavor. It’s the perfect start to your Easy Chicken and Dumplings adventure!

Step 2: Simmer the Mixture

Now, let’s bring this pot of goodness to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This is when the chicken becomes tender and the vegetables soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste! Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. This step is crucial for developing that rich, comforting flavor we all crave in a bowl of chicken and dumplings.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Batter

While the chicken and veggies are simmering, it’s time to whip up the dumpling batter. In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture is the foundation for fluffy dumplings. Next, stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! The batter should be thick but spoonable. I always get excited at this stage, knowing that these dumplings will soon float atop the savory broth, soaking up all that delicious flavor!

Step 4: Add Dumplings to the Broth

With the dumpling batter ready, it’s time for the fun part! Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of the batter into the simmering broth. Space them out a bit; they’ll expand as they cook. Cover the pot again, allowing the dumplings to steam and rise. This is where they transform into fluffy pillows of goodness. I love watching them puff up, knowing they’ll be the perfect complement to the tender chicken and veggies below. It’s like a little surprise waiting to be discovered in each bowl!

Step 5: Cook Until Fluffy

Let the dumplings cook for an additional 15 minutes, covered. This is the moment of truth! You’ll know they’re done when they’ve doubled in size and are fluffy to the touch. A quick poke with a toothpick should come out clean. If you’re feeling adventurous, lift the lid and take a peek. The sight of those golden dumplings floating in the broth is simply irresistible! Once they’re ready, it’s time to serve up this comforting dish that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Don’t skip the simmering step; it’s key for developing rich flavors.
For fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter.

Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices for a personal touch.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a quick meal later!

Equipment Needed

Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for simmering the chicken and broth. A Dutch oven works great too!
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple for mixing the dumpling batter and combining ingredients.
Spoon: A regular spoon or a cookie scoop will help drop the dumplings into the broth.

Measuring cups: Handy for accurate ingredient measurements, especially for the flour and milk.

Variations of Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the broth for an aromatic twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.

Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicy flavor profile.
Whole Wheat Dumplings: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a healthier dumpling option.
Slow Cooker Version: Prepare everything in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach; just add the dumplings in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the broth.
Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Herbal Tea: Pair with a soothing herbal tea for a cozy meal experience.

Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQs about Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breast, but make sure to increase the simmering time to ensure it cooks through. Just be cautious, as it may release extra moisture into the broth.

How can I make Easy Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free to keep the entire dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the dumplings when you’re ready to cook. This makes for a quick and easy dinner on busy nights!

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it from drying out.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or even green beans for extra nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of simmering for a delightful crunch!

Final Thoughts

Making Easy Chicken and Dumplings is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family dig into a warm bowl of this comforting dish fills my heart with happiness. Each spoonful is a reminder of love, warmth, and togetherness. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe brings a sense of comfort that’s hard to beat. I hope you find as much joy in preparing and sharing this meal as I do. Here’s to cozy nights and happy bellies!