Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
A classic Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any table. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked in a rich and creamy sauce that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish to impress your guests, this easy recipe caters to every occasion with its delightful flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Family Favorite: With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the veggies or switch up the seasonings based on what you have on hand.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy less cleanup with this one-pot wonder that keeps all the delicious flavors together.
- Hearty Comfort Food: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish satisfies hunger while providing warmth on chilly days.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Chicken and Dumplings (Easy), you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A must-have for simmering the chicken and vegetables together, ensuring even cooking.
- Stirring spoon: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly without damaging delicate dumplings.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for balanced flavor.
- Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
Ingredients
For this Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Soup 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
- 4 carrots (cut in half lengthwise and then diced)
- 4 celery stalks (diced)
- 2 small yellow onions (diced finely)
For the Creamy 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 Soup Base
- In a large pot, melt the salted butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken followed by water, Better than Bouillon Chicken, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Bring to a boil.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
- Gradually add this mixture into the boiling soup while stirring continuously until thickened.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings
- In a bowl, combine Bisquick, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and milk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto simmering soup. Reduce heat to low; cover tightly.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes without lifting the lid until dumplings are cooked through.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) as it warms your heart!
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Chicken and dumplings is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it classic or add a twist, here are some serving suggestions.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Thyme Leaves: Add a few thyme leaves to enhance the aromatic qualities of the dish.
With Salad
- Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of chicken and dumplings.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the dish’s texture.
With Bread
- Crusty Bread Rolls: Serve warm bread rolls on the side to soak up the delicious broth.
- Cornbread: A slice of cornbread adds a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and dumplings.
With Pickles
- Dill Pickles: Serve dill pickles as a tangy side that cuts through the creaminess.
- Sweet Pickles: Sweet pickles can offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.
How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
To achieve the best chicken and dumplings, consider these tips for an unforgettable meal.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken adds convenience and rich flavor without extra cooking time.
- Don’t Overmix Dumpling Batter: Gently combine ingredients to keep dumplings light and fluffy.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Allow your dish to simmer for even cooking; boiling can toughen the dumplings.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your preference for salt or herbs.
- Add Veggies Early: For softer vegetables, add them early in the cooking process, allowing them to absorb all flavors.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your dish to sit for a few minutes enhances flavor melding and improves texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Pairing side dishes with chicken and dumplings can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy choice that adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a nice crunch alongside the creamy dumplings.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their natural sweetness complements the savory elements of chicken and dumplings perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent experience when served with this dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast, balancing out richness with crunch.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob makes for a nostalgic addition that pairs well with comfort foods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken and Dumplings (Easy), it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Using too much salt: Over-salting can ruin your dish. Use the recommended salt amount and taste as you go to adjust.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Spend a few extra minutes to enhance their taste.
- Making dumplings too thick: Thick dumplings can be dense and chewy. Follow the recipe closely for the best texture.
- Overcooking chicken: If you overcook chicken, it may become dry. Monitor the cooking time carefully, especially if using raw chicken breasts.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the simmering process can lead to an underdeveloped flavor. Allow the dish to simmer fully for a rich taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen up the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) that many home cooks have.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked before shredding it into your dish.
How do I make my dumplings lighter?
For lighter dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure not to make them too thick when dropping them into the soup.
What sides go well with Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)?
Serve with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I customize the vegetables in Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)?
Absolutely! Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like peas or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.
Is Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it a great option for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) is truly a comforting dish that warms both heart and soul. Its creamy sauce combined with soft dumplings makes it delightful for any occasion. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it versatile enough for everyone’s taste. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people. 1x
Description
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) is the quintessential comfort food that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite. This simple yet flavorful dish features tender rotisserie chicken, a medley of fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings nestled in a creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home, this recipe can be made in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without the fuss. Customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings to make it your own—this dish is versatile enough to cater to everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 cups water
- 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 over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in shredded chicken, water, Better than Bouillon Chicken, and seasonings; bring to a boil.
- In a bowl, whisk flour with milk until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the boiling soup until thickened.
- In another bowl, combine Bisquick, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and milk; mix lightly.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover tightly and cook for 15-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- 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: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
