Comfort Food Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Comfort Food Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I absolutely love comfort food, and nothing warms my soul quite like a steaming bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also uses simple ingredients that remind me of home-cooked meals. With tender chicken simmered to perfection and fluffy dumplings, it's a recipe I cherish making on chilly evenings. Combining hearty flavors and a cozy texture, this is a go-to dish for family gatherings or when I need a little pick-me-up. Join me as I take you through creating this delightful meal.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:49:36.437Z

When I first made this recipe for my family, I knew I was onto something special! The key is to let the chicken simmer in broth, which ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. Each bite is filled with the comfort of home, just like my grandmother used to make. I remember her secret was adding a bit of thyme, which brings a delightful aroma to the dish.

As I perfected this recipe, I discovered that the dumplings can be made light and fluffy if you don't overmix the dough. The result is a dish that is not only satisfying but also a nostalgic reminder of family meals. This is definitely one I make repeatedly, especially when the weather turns cold!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying flavors that wrap you in warmth
Fluffy dumplings that soak up the rich, savory broth
Simple ingredients that deliver maximum comfort

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of Chicken and Dumplings lies in the freshness of its ingredients. Using boneless chicken breast ensures that the meat remains tender and easy to shred, while cooking it in chicken broth enhances the flavor profile tremendously. For added texture and taste, incorporating fresh vegetables like carrots and celery not only brings a subtle sweetness but also a crunch that balances the dish's comforting qualities. I recommend using homemade broth if you have it; nothing beats the depth of flavor acquired from a well-prepared stock.

Flour plays a critical role in your dumpling's final texture. All-purpose flour is essential here because it provides the structure dumplings need to hold their shape without becoming dense. Make sure to measure it accurately by fluffing it up first, then spooning it into your measuring cup, leveling it off without packing it down. Incorporating baking powder ensures that your dumplings will rise during cooking, creating those airy pockets that absorb the rich broth beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When cooking your chicken and vegetable mixture, the initial boiling phase is essential for releasing flavors. Once it reaches a boil, reducing the heat to a gentle simmer is crucial—this prevents the chicken from becoming tough and overcooked. Simmering for 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld while keeping the chicken tender. If you notice your pot starting to boil rapidly, don’t hesitate to adjust the heat to maintain that steady simmer.

Adding the dumplings requires precision; they need to be placed on top of the simmering broth without being stirred in. This method allows them to steam while cooking, resulting in fluffy and poofy dumplings. Covering the pot is equally important; it traps steam that cooks the dumplings evenly. Keep an eye on them as they cook; they’ll take about 15 minutes. They’re done when they have puffed up and are firm to the touch, ensuring they won’t sink into the broth.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Chicken and Dumplings experience:

Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings

1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Here's how to create the most comforting chicken and dumplings:

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, combine diced chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is tender.

Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter and milk, then mix into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Add Dumplings to the Pot

Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Let the dish cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add more herbs or spices to the chicken mixture. You can also substitute the chicken with vegetables for a vegetarian version!

Storing and Reheating

This Chicken and Dumplings dish can be made ahead for convenience. Once fully cooked, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the mixture, as the dumplings will absorb some of the liquid during storage, which can make the dish thick.

If you wish to freeze this comforting meal, it's best to do so without the dumplings. The dumpling texture may alter upon reheating from a frozen state. Prepare the chicken and vegetable mix and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, heat it on the stove until boiling, and then add freshly made dumplings according to the recipe. This way, your dumplings will maintain their delightful fluffiness.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Chicken and Dumplings with a simple side salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish. A light vinaigrette dressed salad complements the richness, helping to balance flavors. Consider adding a citrus-based dressing featuring lemon or lime for a bright note that lightens the meal overall.

For a touch of extra flavor, you might also want to garnish your finished dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. Not only do these herbs enhance the visual appeal, but they also provide a fresh, aromatic quality that cuts through the richness of the broth and dumplings. A sprinkle just before serving can elevate the presentation and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it is fully cooked before adding the dumplings.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I scale this recipe for more servings?

Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the cooking times similar.