Easy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe! Made with tender shredded chicken, a savory broth, hearty vegetables, and soft, fluffy dumplings, this classic dish is perfect for cozy family dinners. Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make this one-pot meal ideal for weeknights or special occasions. This delicious chicken and dumplings recipe brings rich flavors with just the right blend of seasoning, making it a satisfying choice for anyone looking for a traditional, flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Soup:

• 6 tbsp butter
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 32 oz chicken stock
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp + 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Make the Chicken Soup
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, stirring to combine. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well, and cook for another minute.
2. Add Liquids and Chicken
   Pour the evaporated milk and chicken stock into the pot, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and salt. Let the soup simmer for 5 minutes while preparing the dumplings.
3. Prepare the Dumplings
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pepper, salt, and thyme. Add the melted butter and whole milk, stirring with a rubber spatula until a dough forms.
4. Add Dumplings to the Soup
   Use an ice cream scoop to portion the dough and drop the dumplings into the simmering soup, leaving some space between them. Lightly press each dumpling into the soup.
5. Cook the Dumplings
   Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, until the dumplings are fully cooked. Gently stir the soup a few times. To check if the dumplings are done, cut one in half; it should be soft and cooked through.
6. Serve
   Serve the chicken and dumplings warm and enjoy!

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Tips

• For Tender Dumplings: Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
• Check Dumpling Doneness: The dumplings should be soft inside; if still doughy, cook a few more minutes.
• Flavor Boost: Add a bay leaf to the soup while simmering and remove before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the dumplings and to thicken the soup.
• Herb Variations: Substitute thyme with rosemary or parsley for a different flavor.
• Vegetable Options: Add peas or corn for extra color and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dumplings?
Yes, pre-made dumplings can be added directly to the soup for convenience.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended, as dumplings may become mushy upon thawing.

How long will leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy homemade chicken and dumplings recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy, flavorful dumplings. Perfect for cozy dinners, it’s a one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make. With customizable ingredients, this dish is a comforting classic the whole family will love!