Chicken And Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings always remind me of the meals that feel steady, filling, and honest.

It’s the type of dish that carries warmth straight from the pot to the table, no matter how busy the day has been.

The broth is rich and full of flavor, the chicken is tender and satisfying, and the dumplings float on top like soft little clouds soaking up every bit of goodness.

This is the recipe I turn to when I want food that feels nourishing in every sense. It’s not rushed or showy—it’s made to be enjoyed slowly, spoonful by spoonful.

The vegetables give the base a deep flavor, the herbs add just enough freshness, and the dumplings tie it all together with their pillowy texture.

By the time it’s served, the whole bowl feels like it was cooked with care.

If you’re looking for a meal that leaves people quiet at the table because they’re too busy enjoying it, this is it.

A big bowl of chicken and dumplings doesn’t just fill you up—it makes the entire room feel settled and satisfied.

Table of Contents

Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 bay leaf
6 cups chicken broth
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (reserve some for garnish)

For The Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons butter, softened
3/4 cup milk

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
Stir in the garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 15 minutes.
While the broth simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Cut in the butter using your fingertips until the mixture looks crumbly. Stir in the milk until just combined. The dough should be thick but sticky.
Once the broth has simmered, drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the pot. Space them slightly apart as they will expand while cooking.
Cover the pot with a lid and cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. This allows the dumplings to steam and become fluffy. Do not lift the lid during this time.
After 15 minutes, gently stir in the shredded chicken. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the dumplings are fully cooked.
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

What Can I Serve With Chicken And Dumplings?

A warm bowl of chicken and dumplings is already hearty, but adding the right sides can turn it into a well-rounded meal.

Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add color and flavor.
Cornbread Or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing option to cleanse the palate after a rich main course.

These pairings add freshness, texture, and a little brightness to your meal.

How Do I Keep Dumplings From Falling Apart?

Many people worry about dumplings breaking in the broth, but with a few simple tips, you can keep them soft and whole.

Do Not Overmix Dough: Overworking makes dumplings tough and crumbly. Mix just until combined.
Drop Into Simmering Broth: If the broth is boiling too hard, dumplings can break apart. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
Cover The Pot While Cooking: Steam helps dumplings cook evenly and stay fluffy.
Do Not Stir After Dropping Dumplings: Leave them untouched until they are set and cooked through.

These steps ensure dumplings turn out light, tender, and perfectly intact.

Can I Make Chicken And Dumplings Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Cook The Broth First: Prepare the chicken, vegetables, and broth up to a day ahead and store in the fridge.
Make Dumplings Fresh: Dumplings are best cooked just before serving, as they lose their texture if reheated too many times.
Reheat Gently: Warm the broth and chicken over medium heat, then add dumplings freshly made to cook in the reheated broth.

This way, you get the convenience of a make-ahead dish without losing the freshness of fluffy dumplings.

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken And Dumplings?

Storage is important to keep the dish safe and tasty.

Refrigerator: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container. They will last for up to 3 days.
Freezer: While broth and chicken freeze well, dumplings do not hold up in the freezer. For freezing, store the broth and chicken separately and make fresh dumplings when reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if it looks too thick.

Following these storage tips keeps the dish safe to eat and tasting fresh.

Can I Use Different Herbs Or Vegetables In Chicken And Dumplings?

Yes, this recipe is flexible, and adding extra vegetables or herbs can make it even more flavorful.

Additional Vegetables: Peas, corn, or green beans work beautifully.
Fresh Herbs: Dill, rosemary, or fresh thyme can enhance the flavor.
Seasoning: A pinch of paprika or celery seed can add a little depth.

Small changes let you customize the dish while still keeping its traditional heartiness.

Why Are My Dumplings Dense Instead Of Fluffy?

If your dumplings turn out heavy, it usually comes down to how the dough is handled.

Use Fresh Baking Powder: Old baking powder loses its ability to make dumplings rise.
Do Not Overmix: Stir the dough only until it comes together.
Keep The Lid Closed: Lifting the lid too often lets steam escape, preventing dumplings from puffing up.

Paying attention to these details will help you achieve soft, airy dumplings every time.

Can I Make Chicken And Dumplings Without Dairy?

Yes, it’s possible to prepare dairy-free dumplings while keeping the dish just as delicious.

Milk Substitute: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
Butter Substitute: Swap butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine.
Same Cooking Method: Follow the recipe exactly, and the results will be similar in taste and texture.

This adjustment allows everyone at the table to enjoy the dish, regardless of dietary needs.

Pro Tips For Making Chicken And Dumplings

Cooking chicken and dumplings is simple, but a few smart tricks make a big difference in flavor and texture.

Thicken The Broth Naturally: Mash a few cooked carrots or potatoes directly into the broth for a thicker texture without adding cream.
Shape Dumplings Easily: Use two spoons to scoop and drop the dough into the pot for uniform dumplings that cook evenly.
Add Flavor With Broth: If using store-bought broth, simmer it with extra onion, celery, or herbs for 10 minutes before adding dumplings to deepen the flavor.
Don’t Rush The Cooking: Dumplings need steady heat and steam. Keeping the lid closed during cooking ensures they become light and fluffy.
Finish With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle parsley or dill at the very end for a fresh lift that balances the rich broth.