If you’re searching for a soul-warming meal that comforts you from the inside out, you can’t go wrong with Easy Chicken and Dumplings. This dish delivers fluffy biscuit dumplings swimming in a rich, creamy chicken stew full of tender veggies and savory herbs. It’s the kind of recipe you turn to on chilly nights, busy weeknights, or any time you crave classic comfort food that’s big on flavor but light on fuss. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few quick steps, you’ll have a bubbling pot of homemade goodness that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Chicken and Dumplings is that each ingredient works together to create a comforting, flavorful meal. Nothing fancy or hard to find—just honest, wholesome staples that make every bite irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps sauté the vegetables for a savory base.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the stew an extra layer of flavor and a silky texture.
- Onion: Chopped onion brings depth and gentle sweetness to the broth.
- Carrots: Sliced carrots add color and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- Celery: Sliced celery offers a classic aromatic crunch and rounds out the mirepoix.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the stew with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Chicken broth: The backbone of the soup, giving it a savory and comforting character.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for tender, flavorful bites and easy prep.
- Dried thyme: This herb brings earthy, herby notes that make the dish feel homemade.
- Black pepper: Just the right amount of warmth and gentle spice.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—taste and adjust as you go!
- Frozen peas: A pop of green and a touch of sweetness, added at the end for freshness.
- Heavy cream (optional): For those who love a creamy broth, this ingredient makes it extra luscious.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret shortcut for fluffy, tender dumplings—just cut and drop them in!
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle at the end gives a fresh, bright finish.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery, letting them cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until beautifully softened. This step creates a fragrant, flavorful base that sets the tone for the whole pot—don’t rush it, and enjoy the aroma as everything sizzles together!
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it—this quick sauté unlocks its sweetness and depth, making the entire stew more inviting.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Gently pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. The broth will soak up all the flavors from your sautéed vegetables, giving your Easy Chicken and Dumplings its signature savory taste.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Next, add the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and frozen peas. Give everything a good stir and let it return to a gentle simmer. If you’re craving a richer texture, now’s the time to stir in the heavy cream.
Step 5: Drop in the Dumplings
Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into small, bite-sized pieces, then gently add them to the simmering soup. Press them lightly into the liquid so they soak up all that delicious flavor. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes—no peeking! The steam is what puffs the dumplings up into tender, fluffy pillows.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked through, gently stir the pot and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve your Easy Chicken and Dumplings warm and get ready for second helpings!
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Garnishes
A handful of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a delicate, herby freshness. For extra flair, you can sprinkle on a little cracked black pepper or a swirl of cream just before serving.
Side Dishes
While Easy Chicken and Dumplings is hearty enough to shine on its own, a simple green salad or a side of roasted veggies makes a lovely, balanced meal. Warm, crusty bread is also perfect for sopping up every last drop of that creamy broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or wide mugs for a cozy touch. For a family-style dinner, bring the whole pot to the table and let everyone help themselves. A sprinkle of lemon zest or a dash of hot sauce on top can add a unique twist for adventurous eaters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Chicken and Dumplings keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just cool it down, transfer to an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick, comforting meal ready to go.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze leftovers, let the stew cool completely first. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. The biscuit dumplings may soften a little after thawing, but the flavors remain just as delicious.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Easy Chicken and Dumplings gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just cover the bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dumplings instead of biscuit dough?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite dumpling recipe, feel free to use it in place of the biscuit dough. Homemade dumplings will make the dish even more special.
What type Main Course
Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor, but any cooked, shredded chicken (even leftovers) works perfectly. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best results.
Is the heavy cream necessary?
No worries if you want to skip the cream! It’s totally optional. The stew is still comforting and delicious without it—just a little less rich. Add it if you’re after a creamier texture.
Can I make Easy Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?
You sure can. Use a gluten-free biscuit dough or your favorite gluten-free dumpling recipe, and double-check that your broth is certified gluten-free.
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are done when they’ve puffed up and are firm to the touch. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center of one—it should come out clean, just like testing a cake.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about gathering around the table with a bowl of Easy Chicken and Dumplings. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special Sunday supper, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy everyone. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
Print
Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe offers a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy biscuit dumplings simmered in a creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy family meal, it combines simple ingredients into a flavorful classic American stew.
Ingredients
Base and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Seasoning
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
Protein
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
Dumplings and Garnish
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into small pieces
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and frozen peas. Stir to combine everything evenly and maintain a gentle simmer.
- Add Cream (Optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream at this stage to create a richer, creamier broth that enhances the stew’s smooth texture.
- Add Dumplings: Gently add the biscuit dough pieces directly into the simmering soup. Press them lightly into the liquid so they are partially submerged.
- Simmer Dumplings: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the dumplings to cook through and puff up to a light, fluffy texture.
- Finish and Serve: Once dumplings are cooked, gently stir the stew to combine. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the chicken and dumplings warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can make your own dumplings from scratch if preferred instead of using refrigerated biscuit dough.
- Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
