Quick and Delicious Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Chicken and dumplings is one of those timeless comfort dishes that instantly brings warmth to the table. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings, this recipe is hearty enough for a family dinner yet simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. Every spoonful is rich, satisfying, and full of homemade goodness, making it a dish you will want to cook again and again.
What makes this version special is how quick and convenient it is without losing any of the classic flavour. The dumplings are light and tender, soaking up the savoury broth perfectly, while the chicken stays juicy and flavourful. It is the kind of meal that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for cold evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you crave something wholesome and delicious.
Why You Need This Recipe
This chicken and dumplings recipe is the perfect choice when you want a comforting meal that does not take hours in the kitchen. It delivers all the homestyle flavour you love in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last minute dinners. The broth is rich and savoury, the chicken is tender, and the dumplings are soft and fluffy, creating a complete meal in one pot.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can keep it simple with just chicken, dumplings, and broth, or add vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas for extra texture and nutrition. It is also budget friendly, using common ingredients you likely already have on hand. With its balance of convenience and flavour, this dish is one you will want to keep in your regular recipe rotation.
Ingredients
These simple ingredients come together to create a hearty, comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings that is both satisfying and nourishing.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast or thighs | 1 lb (450g) | 750 kcal |
| All purpose flour (for dumplings) | 2 cups | 910 kcal |
| Baking powder | 1 tbsp | 30 kcal |
| Milk | 1 cup | 150 kcal |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | 400 kcal |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | 90 kcal |
| Carrots, diced | 1 cup | 50 kcal |
| Celery, diced | 1 cup | 15 kcal |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium | 45 kcal |
| Peas (optional) | 1/2 cup | 60 kcal |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | 2 tbsp | 5 kcal |
| Total per serving (6 servings) | – | ~415 kcal |
How to Prepare
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and melting two tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and saute until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma. Stir in the chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken turns golden on the outside, then pour in the chicken broth. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer so the flavours can blend together.
While the broth simmers, prepare the dumpling dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and baking powder, then cut in the remaining butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Pour in the milk gradually and stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
Using a spoon, drop portions of the dough directly into the simmering broth. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid, as the steam helps them rise and stay tender. Once the dumplings are fully cooked and the chicken is tender, stir in the peas and let them heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings.
Pro Tips
For the best flavour, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, as they stay juicier and add more richness to the broth. If you want to save time, you can also use rotisserie chicken just shred it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
When making the dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough. A light hand will keep them fluffy and tender instead of dense. Also, resist the urge to lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking, as the steam is crucial for them to rise properly.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half and half right before serving. And for extra depth of flavor, add a bay leaf or a pinch of dried thyme to the broth while it simmers. These small touches make a big difference in elevating this comforting dish.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Chicken and dumplings is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more satisfying. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish beautifully. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or green beans, for extra nutrition and flavor.
For toppings, fresh parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness to every bowl. A sprinkle of black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a little kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice. If you want to make the dish feel even more indulgent, top each serving with a drizzle of cream or a small pat of butter that melts into the warm broth. These small additions can turn a simple comforting bowl into a truly memorable meal.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings is the kind of meal that brings comfort, warmth, and a sense of home with every bite. This recipe keeps things quick and simple while still delivering all the rich flavours and tender textures that make this dish a timeless favourite. The soft dumplings, savoury broth, and juicy chicken come together to create a bowl of pure satisfaction that everyone at the table will love.
Whether you are cooking for your family on a busy evening or preparing something cozy for yourself, this dish never disappoints. With its balance of convenience, flavour, and comfort, chicken and dumplings is a recipe worth keeping in your collection and revisiting often. One bowl is all it takes to remind you why classic comfort food will always have a special place in the kitchen.
