best chicken and dumplings: 5 Reasons You’ll Adore This Comfort Food

Name: best chicken and dumplings: 5 Reasons You'll Adore This Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs); 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s just something so comforting about homemade meals, isn’t there? When I think of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, the best chicken and dumplings always comes to mind. This recipe is a true labor of love, featuring tender chicken swimming in a rich broth and fluffy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. I remember my grandma making this dish on chilly Sundays, filling our home with the most delightful aroma. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, creating warm memories and satisfied smiles. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a family favorite too!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best chicken and dumplings! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs): The star of the show! A whole chicken gives the broth a rich, deep flavor that you just can’t replicate with chicken pieces.
4 cups chicken broth: I love using a good-quality broth, as it adds all the savory goodness to the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade broth is even better!
2 cups water: This helps to balance the flavors in the broth. You can adjust this based on how rich you want your soup.
1 onion, chopped: Onions add sweetness and depth. You can use yellow or white onions—whatever you have on hand!
2 carrots, sliced: Carrots give a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. Slice them thin for quicker cooking.
2 celery stalks, sliced: Celery adds crunch and a wonderful aroma—don’t skip it!
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning! You can always add more, but start with this amount.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: This adds a little kick. Feel free to adjust it based on your taste.
1 cup flour: For the dumplings. All-purpose flour works perfectly here.
1 tablespoon baking powder: This is what makes the dumplings rise and become fluffy. Don’t forget it!
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to ensure the dumplings are flavorful.
1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dumpling dough.
1/4 cup butter, melted: This gives the dumplings a delicious buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible!

Make sure to measure everything out ahead of time so you can enjoy the cooking process without any interruptions. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare the Best Chicken and Dumplings

Now, let’s dive into the process of making the best chicken and dumplings! It’s a simple and rewarding journey that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with joy. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

First things first, grab a large pot and combine your whole chicken, 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of water, the chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Wow, doesn’t that already smell amazing? Bring everything to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. This is where all the flavors meld together beautifully, and the chicken gets tender. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t boil over!

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once your 45 minutes are up, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool for a bit—trust me, you don’t want to burn your fingers! When it’s cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bones using two forks, or your hands if you’re feeling brave. Then, return that shredded chicken back into the pot. It’s like a reunion party for all the ingredients, and it’s about to get even better!

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

Now, let’s whip up those delightful dumplings! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give it a little stir to mix everything together. Then, pour in 1/4 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms. You want it to be thick but still droppable. If it feels too dry, add a splash more milk. This dough is the secret to those fluffy dumplings you’re dreaming of!

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

Alright, it’s dumpling time! With the broth simmering away, drop spoonfuls of that lovely dumpling dough right into the pot. Don’t worry if they look a little rustic; that’s part of their charm! Now, here’s the key: cover the pot and let them cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. I know it’s tempting, but trust me—keeping the lid on helps them steam perfectly and get all fluffy. After 15 minutes, they’ll be ready to serve! Just like that, you’ve created a heartwarming meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this recipe for the best chicken and dumplings is a game-changer! Here’s why it holds a special place in my heart (and in my kitchen):

Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already! It’s all about using what you have to create something truly delicious.
Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings. It’s the ultimate hug in a bowl that makes you feel all cozy inside.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike go crazy for this dish! It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.
Rich Flavor: The combination of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth creates an explosion of taste that’s hard to beat.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! More time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly evening, a family gathering, or just a regular weeknight, this dish fits right in.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe is a staple in my home! It’s comfort food that brings people together, and I can’t wait for you to experience it.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re on your way to making the best chicken and dumplings, I want to share a few expert tips that can take your dish from great to absolutely unforgettable!

Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning! Taste the broth before adding the dumplings and tweak the salt and pepper as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own.
Herbs for Extra Flavor: If you want to elevate your dish, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Toss them into the broth just before serving for a burst of freshness. Wow, it really makes a difference!
Use Quality Broth: The broth is the heart of this dish, so using a high-quality chicken broth can really enhance the flavor. If you have the time, homemade broth is a game-changer!
Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: When you’re mixing the dumpling ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings instead of the light, fluffy ones we’re aiming for.
Resting Time for Chicken: After you cook the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding. This will help keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
Leftover Love: If you have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), they can be stored in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone with your chicken and dumplings. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, I always like to keep an eye on the nutritional side without sacrificing flavor! Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values for the best chicken and dumplings per serving (about 1 bowl):

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

These values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect. Remember, it’s all about balance, and this dish is perfect for a hearty meal that warms the soul. Enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. It not only saves time but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your dish. Just shred the meat and toss it into the broth—easy peasy! You’ll have a comforting meal in no time, and it’s a great way to use up any extra chicken you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers?

If you end up with any leftovers (which is a rarity, trust me!), simply transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back that delicious, cozy feel.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

You sure can! To make the best chicken and dumplings gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. You can also check that your baking powder is gluten-free. Just keep an eye on the dumpling dough consistency; it might need a little extra moisture, so feel free to add a splash more milk if needed. You’ll still get that comforting goodness without the gluten!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your best chicken and dumplings fresh and delicious, proper storage is key! If you have any leftovers (which I know can be hard to believe), let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation from making your dumplings soggy. You can store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is on the stovetop. Just transfer the chicken and dumplings to a pot, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up, and heat over medium-low until warmed through. Stir gently to avoid breaking apart the dumplings. This method keeps everything nice and creamy, just like when you first made it!

Oh, and if you find yourself with more leftovers than you can manage, you can also freeze them! Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop as mentioned above. Easy peasy!

best chicken and dumplings - detail 1

"As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases."

You might also like it

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry: 25-Minute Delight

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables Magic

Chicken Chili: Discover the Secret to Perfect Flavor!

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.