The Best Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

The Ultimate Chicken and Dumplings Recipe to Warm Your Soul 

Craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl? Chicken and dumplings is the go-to comfort food that combines tender, shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a savoury broth to create a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is perfect for entertaining guests or simply relaxing on the couch with a steaming bowl. 

Get ready to learn everything there is to know about chicken and dumplings—from the fascinating history of this comforting classic to step-by-step guidance for making it yourself. Let’s get cooking! 

A Brief History of Chicken and Dumplings 

Unbelievably, the history of chicken and dumplings is extensive! During tough economic times in the Southern United States, when resourceful cooks had to stretch simple ingredients like chicken, flour, and broth into filling, satisfying meals, this dish likely originated.

Over time, regional variations emerged, with some recipes favouring flat, noodle-like dumplings (think Pennsylvania Dutch) and others opting for the pillowy, biscuit-style dumplings we know today. 

Around the world, similar dishes tap into this same comforting vibe. Germany has its knödel, while China boasts steamed dumplings paired with chicken soup. No matter where you’re from, there’s something universally satisfying about the combination of chicken and dough. 

Why Chicken and Dumplings is the Ultimate Comfort Food 

Put simply, chicken and dumplings fulfill all the comfort food requirements. It’s warm, creamy, and packed full of nostalgic flavours that remind many of their childhood kitchens. Eating it feels like being wrapped in your favourite blanket on a chilly evening. 

Plus, it’s versatile. Whether you’re sniffling through a cold or feeding a full dinner table, chicken and dumplings feel right for just about any occasion. 

Fun fact—did you know studies suggest that comfort foods like this can actually lift your mood? Perhaps those pillowy dumplings are secretly enhancing our mood! 

The Ingredients for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings 

The key to nailing chicken and dumplings lies in your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the best-ever version of this dish: 

For the Chicken Soup Base:

• Chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless): Juicy and tender when cooked in the broth. 
• Chicken stock (preferably homemade): The foundation of great flavour. 
• Vegetables (carrots, celery, onion): For that aromatic, hearty goodness. 
• Herbs (thyme, bay leaf, parsley): Fresh herbs work wonders here. 
• Butter & flour (for the roux): The base of a creamy soup can’t start without it! 

For the Dumplings:

• Flour (all-purpose): Your dumplings’ base. 
• Baking powder: To make them fluffy and light. 
• Butter or shortening: Adds richness to the dough. 
• Milk or buttermilk (cold): Helps pull the dough together. 

With quality ingredients like these, you’re well on your way to a restaurant-quality dish. 

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken and Dumplings 

Follow this easy guide to make chicken and dumplings at home. Trust me, it’s easier than you think! 

1. Sear the Chicken 

Heat some olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it until browned on each side (about 5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside. 

2. Sauté the Vegetables 

Add your chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the same pot, cooking them until softened—about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, thyme, and a bay leaf for extra fragrance. 

3. Make the Broth 

Add the chicken back to the pot and pour in the chicken stock. Simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. 

4. Prepare the Dumpling Dough 

While your soup simmers, mix flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until you get a crumbly texture, then add cold milk until just combined. Don’t overwork the dough! 

5. Make it Creamy 

Remove the cooked chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Whisk flour into melted butter to create a roux, then stir this into the soup for a smooth, creamy base. 

6. Drop in the Dumplings 

Spoon small amounts of dough into the simmering soup. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid (the steam helps these dumplings puff up beautifully). 

7. Serve and Enjoy 

Add the shredded chicken back to the soup, garnish with fresh parsley, and you’re done! 

Read more: Chicken and Chickpea Curry Recipe – A Hearty, Healthy Dish

Customising Your Chicken and Dumplings Recipe 

The beauty of chicken and dumplings is how adaptable it is. Here are a few creative twists to make this dish your own! 

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick. 
• Make It Hearty: Toss in peas, sweetcorn, or chopped potatoes for a veggie boost. 
• Go Herby: Experiment with fresh rosemary or tarragon for a new flavour profile. 
• Swap the Protein: Try turkey, tofu, or even seafood for a fun variation. 

Perfect Pairings for Chicken and Dumplings 

Looking to elevate your meal? Pair chicken and dumplings with these complementing dishes for a complete spread. 

• A Crisp Side Salad: Something with apples, candied nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dumplings. 
• A Basket of Warm Bread: Because extra carbs never hurt anyone! 
• White Wine: A Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works beautifully with this dish. 

Healthier Alternatives for Chicken and Dumplings 

While traditional chicken and dumplings are undeniably satisfying, you can lighten them up for a healthier take! 

• Use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs for lower fat content. 
• Swap out regular all-purpose flour for whole-wheat flour in your dumplings. 
• Use low-sodium broth and reduce the added salt for a heart-healthy swap. 
• Incorporate extra veggies, like spinach or kale, for a dose of nutrients. 

These small tweaks won’t compromise on flavour but will add a nutritional boost to your meal. 

Comfort Food for Every Occasion 

You can unleash your culinary creativity with chicken and dumplings—it’s not just a recipe. Whether you stick to tradition or experiment with bold flavours, this dish is guaranteed to deliver on taste and comfort. 

Why not give it a try tonight? Invite the family over, or keep it all to yourself—we won’t judge. 

Love this recipe? Share it with fellow foodies and subscribe to our blog for more heartwarming recipes. Happy cooking!