The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings

Name: The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 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; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas

The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that will warm your soul. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, flavorful broth to create a meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-05T18:34:21.690Z

This recipe for Chicken & Dumplings has been passed down through generations. It's a dish that brings families together, especially during cold winter nights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for any meal
Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth

      

The Comfort of Homemade

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making chicken and dumplings from scratch. This dish is a staple in many households, often passed down through generations. The aroma of the simmering broth and the sound of the bubbling dumplings bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort. When you take that first bite, you’ll be reminded of family gatherings and cozy dinners at home.

Using a whole chicken not only enhances the flavor of your broth but also provides tender pieces of meat that are perfect for shredding. The combination of fresh vegetables adds a delightful texture and richness to the dish, making it not just comforting but also nutritious.

Dumplings: The Fluffy Stars of the Dish

The dumplings in this recipe are the real showstoppers. Made with simple ingredients, they are light, fluffy, and incredibly versatile. As they cook, they absorb the rich flavors of the broth, elevating the entire dish. Each bite of these dumplings provides a soft, pillowy experience that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.

One of the best parts about the dumplings is their ease of preparation. With just a few ingredients and a quick mixing process, you can whip them up in no time. This makes this recipe not only hearty but also a practical option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a chilly evening, or a gathering with friends, The Best Ever Chicken & Dumplings is a dish that fits the bill. Its heartiness makes it an ideal choice for colder months, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. Plus, it’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleaser.

You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Experimenting with ingredients lets you make this dish your own while still keeping the comforting essence intact. No matter how you make it, this chicken and dumplings recipe will surely become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Broth

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
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
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 cup milk

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Make the Dumplings

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

Combine and Cook

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto the surface of the broth.

Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken & Dumplings!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this chicken and dumplings recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to ensure the dumplings remain moist and fluffy while reheating.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the chicken and broth separately from the dumplings. This way, you can prepare the dumplings fresh right before serving, ensuring they maintain their perfect texture.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor in your broth, allow it to simmer gently, extracting all the goodness from the chicken and vegetables. Avoid boiling vigorously, as this can make the chicken tough. Instead, a gentle simmer will yield a rich and flavorful broth that enhances the entire dish.

When mixing the dumpling batter, remember that less is more. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings, so simply combine the ingredients until they are just incorporated. This will ensure a light and fluffy texture that complements the savory chicken and broth perfectly.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your chicken and dumplings. Fresh parsley, rosemary, or even a touch of cayenne pepper can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Additionally, consider adding seasonal vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and flavor.

For a lighter version, you can substitute the whole chicken for skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor. These modifications can make the dish suitable for any dietary preference while keeping the comforting essence intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked before shredding.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dumplings?

Certainly! You can mix in finely chopped spinach or peas for added nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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