Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for Cozy Nights

Name: Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ¾ cup milk; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

August 16, 2025

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A hot bowl of chicken and dumplings is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine tender pieces of chicken simmered in a flavorful broth with fluffy dumplings bobbing around like little boats in a sea of comfort. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to dive right in and forget about the world outside.

This classic dish has been a staple in many homes, bringing families together over shared laughter and hearty bites. Whether it’s a rainy day or just a Tuesday that feels like a Monday, nothing says “I care” quite like serving up some homemade chicken and dumplings. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy chicken and dumplings recipe makes meal prep simple while delivering big flavors.
The visual appeal of fluffy dumplings floating in savory broth is irresistible.
It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to add your favorite vegetables!

One memorable night, I whipped up this delightful dish for my family after an exhausting week. The kids’ faces lit up with joy as they inhaled the rich aroma wafting from the kitchen—it was pure magic!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy during cooking; plus, they’re packed with flavor.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade is even better.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; cut them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Celery Stalks: Celery gives great crunch; be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening the broth; using high-quality flour makes a difference.
Baking Powder: This is crucial for fluffy dumplings; don’t skip it!
Milk: Add milk to the dumpling dough for extra richness; whole milk works best.
Butter: A touch of butter adds richness to the broth; use unsalted butter to control seasoning.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish; it’s also a great garnish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Chicken Base: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and sauté until vibrant colors emerge and aromas fill your kitchen.

Add Chicken and Broth: Stir in boneless skinless chicken thighs along with your chosen broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil while enjoying that tantalizing scent.

Create the Dumpling Batter: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and melted butter until you achieve a smooth batter consistency reminiscent of cloud fluff.

Dumpling Time: Once your broth simmers happily away, drop spoonfuls of batter directly into the bubbling goodness. Cover the pot tightly—no peeking! Let them steam for about 15 minutes until puffy.

Add Final Touches: After steaming time is up, check if your dumplings are light and fluffy. Stir in fresh parsley for color before serving hot alongside hearty chunks of tender chicken.

Now you’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings that’s ready to impress! Enjoy every bite as you savor all those delicious flavors together with family or friends.

You Must Know

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add vibrant flavor and aroma to your dish.
Mixing too much makes tough dumplings. A gentle simmer helps maintain tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then prepare your broth while the chicken cooks. This efficient sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time, creating a beautiful harmony in your pot.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in vegetables like carrots and peas or try different seasonings such as garlic powder or smoked paprika. Customizing this dish can turn a classic into something uniquely yours in no time.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to keep those dumplings soft and tender.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Fluffy dumplings start with cold ingredients; this keeps them light and airy.
Always taste your broth before serving—seasoning is key!
Slow cooking really enhances flavors, so be patient for delicious results.

I remember the first time I made chicken and dumplings for my family. Everyone raved about it, even my picky eater cousin who usually avoids anything resembling a vegetable!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for chicken and dumplings?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even flavor distribution.

What type of flour is best for dumplings?

All-purpose flour works perfectly for creating light and fluffy dumplings.

How can I make my broth richer?

Adding more herbs and simmering longer enhances depth of flavor in your broth.

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