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Best Chicken and Dumplings

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This hearty and comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe is made with tender chicken, fluffy homemade dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried rosemary
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)

For the Dumplings:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables:
    Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken:
    Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes to develop the flavors.
  3. Prepare the Dumpling Dough:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined (do not overmix).
  4. Drop the Dumplings:
    Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the surface of the simmering soup. The dumplings will expand as they cook, so leave a bit of space between them.
  5. Cook the Dumplings:
    Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through. Do not lift the lid while the dumplings cook, as the steam is essential.
  6. Finish the Soup:
    Stir in the heavy cream, if using, for a richer broth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve:
    Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.


Notes

  • Chicken Options: Leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and easy.
  • Dumpling Tip: For fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough.
  • Vegetable Variations: Add peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
  • Make Ahead: The soup base (without the dumplings) can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add the dumplings just before serving.