Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
A Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) dish is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this recipe brings warmth and happiness to your table. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy dumplings all enveloped in a creamy sauce, this meal is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s simple to make and versatile enough to fit into various dining situations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy comfort food without a lengthy cooking time.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will love this dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand for a personalized touch.
- One-Pot Meal: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup and more time spent enjoying your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make Chicken and Dumplings (Easy), having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need.
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
- Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
- Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
- Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle
Customer Reviews ★★★★★
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for simmering the chicken, veggies, and dumplings together for maximum flavor.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.
- Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly when preparing the creamy sauce.
Ingredients
A old fashioned chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food featuring chicken, veggies and tender dumplings all simmered in a creamy sauce.
For the Chicken Base
- 3 to 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded or 2 large chicken breasts cooked and shredded)
- 8 cups water
- 4 tablespoons Better than Bouillon Chicken
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
For the Vegetables
- 4 carrots (cut in half lengthwise and then diced)
- 4 celery stalks (diced)
- 2 small yellow onions (diced finely)
For the Sauce
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅔ cup milk
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Base
In a large pot, combine water with Better than Bouillon Chicken. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling:
1. Add shredded rotisserie chicken.
2. Stir in butter until melted.
3. Add diced carrots, celery, and onions.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes. In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
2. Slowly add this mixture into the pot while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
In another bowl:
1. Mix Bisquick with salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning.
2. Stir in milk until just combined; don’t over-mix.
Step 4: Cook Everything Together
Bring your mixture back to a gentle boil. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto the broth:
1. Cover tightly with a lid.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 15-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) dish!
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Serving Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful experience that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this classic dish.
Family Style
- Serve the Chicken and Dumplings in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal dining experience perfect for gatherings.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. This adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Accompanied by Hot Sauce
- Offer a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick. It complements the creamy texture beautifully and adds an exciting twist.
Over Rice
- For an extra hearty meal, serve the Chicken and Dumplings over a bed of fluffy rice. This soaks up the delicious gravy and makes every bite satisfying.
On a Bed of Greens
- Place a scoop of Chicken and Dumplings over mixed greens for a lighter option. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the dumplings.
How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
To achieve the ultimate Chicken and Dumplings, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook fresh chicken breasts for better flavor.
- Don’t Rush Simmering: Allow your chicken mixture to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. This helps meld all flavors together.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your broth before adding milk or dumplings. You can adjust salt, pepper, or seasonings according to your preference.
- Fluffy Dumplings: Ensure your dumpling batter is not over-mixed; this keeps them light and fluffy when cooked.
- Serve Immediately: For best results, serve right after cooking. The dumplings are at their peak texture when fresh.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge but note that dumplings will absorb broth over time.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Chicken and Dumplings pair wonderfully with various sides that complement its comforting nature. Here’s a list of delicious accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy gravy; it adds crunch alongside richness.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast with its crunchy texture; the tangy dressing brightens up your meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned broccoli or green beans offer a healthy balance to your plate.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to savory dumplings; great for sopping up broth.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make this meal heartier; they are delicious when mixed with chicken gravy.
- Side Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette adds freshness, making your meal feel complete.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness pairs well with creamy dishes like Chicken and Dumplings, enhancing overall flavor.
- Biscuit Bites: Mini biscuits served alongside can be fun finger foods that complement every bite of chicken goodness.
These side dishes will elevate your meal experience while enjoying Chicken and Dumplings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chicken and dumplings can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can ruin this comforting dish.
-
Overcooking the Dumplings: Dumplings should cook just until they are fluffy and tender. Overcooking them can lead to a gummy texture. Stick to the suggested cooking time for the best results.
-
Not Seasoning Properly: Chicken and dumplings need flavor. Be sure to season your broth and ingredients adequately. Tasting as you go will help you achieve the perfect balance.
-
Using Low-Quality Chicken: The flavor of your dish relies heavily on the chicken. Opt for rotisserie chicken or well-cooked chicken breasts for the best taste.
-
Skipping the Vegetables: Vegetables add essential nutrients and flavor. Omitting them can make your dish feel bland. Include carrots, celery, and onions for a wholesome meal.
-
Rushing the Cooking Process: Good things take time! Allow your ingredients to simmer properly for a rich, creamy sauce that enhances the overall flavor of your chicken and dumplings.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Chicken and dumplings can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making chicken and dumplings that are easy to answer!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it is fully cooked before shredding it into your dish.
How do I make gluten-free dumplings?
You can substitute Bisquick with gluten-free flour blends specifically designed for baking to create gluten-free dumplings easily.
What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)?
Pair this dish with a simple salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal that complements its flavors.
How long does it take to make Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)?
The total time for preparation and cooking is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick comfort food option!
Final Thoughts
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that’s not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding herbs or spices of your choice or incorporating different vegetables. Give it a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) is the quintessential comfort food that envelops you in warmth and nostalgia. This recipe combines tender rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich, creamy sauce – a dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. In just 45 minutes, you can create a hearty meal that appeals to everyone at the table, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The one-pot cooking method minimizes cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy this delightful dish with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 cups water
- 4 tablespoons Better than Bouillon Chicken
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 carrots (diced)
- 4 celery stalks (diced)
- 2 small yellow onions (diced)
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups Bisquick
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water and Better than Bouillon Chicken to a boil. Add shredded chicken, butter, carrots, celery, and onions.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes. In a bowl, whisk flour, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth; stir into the pot.
- In another bowl, mix Bisquick with salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; add milk until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the boiling mixture. Cover tightly and reduce heat; cook for about 15-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
