Chicken and dumplings instantly remind me of a rainy Sunday when I was craving something warm and comforting and I decided to try making it from scratch and as the savory aroma started filling the house, I felt like I was wrapped in a cozy blanket and I couldn’t wait to taste that rich broth with the fluffy dumplings.

Ever since that first pot, this dish has become a go-to whenever my family wants something hearty and soothing and I love the way the tender chicken pairs with those pillowy dumplings and each spoonful feels like a little bit of homemade love and now, every time I make it, it feels like a special moment even if it’s just an ordinary weeknight.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Chicken breasts or thighs – The main protein, juicy and tender when shredded.
Chicken broth – Forms the flavorful, savory base of the dish.
Carrots – Add sweetness and texture to the broth.
Celery – Gives a fresh, aromatic depth.
Onion – Builds the savory foundation of the broth.
Garlic – Adds a gentle, savory richness.
All-purpose flour – Thickens the broth and also forms the dumpling dough.
Baking powder – Helps the dumplings rise and stay fluffy.
Milk – Keeps the dumplings soft and tender.
Butter – Adds richness to both the broth and dumplings.
Salt and pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Fresh parsley – For a bright, herby finish.

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot or Dutch oven – Perfect for cooking everything in one pot and keeping the heat even.
Mixing bowls – For preparing the dumpling dough.
Whisk – Helps incorporate the flour into the broth smoothly.
Ladle – For serving generous portions of broth and dumplings.
Forks – To shred the chicken easily.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the vegetables

I start by heating butter in a large pot over medium heat. I add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add the chicken and broth

I add the chicken pieces to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. I bring everything to a simmer and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 3: Shred the chicken

I remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. I return it to the pot and let it continue simmering while I prepare the dumplings.

Step 4: Make the dumplings

In a mixing bowl, I whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. I add melted butter and milk, stirring until just combined — the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 5: Add the dumplings

Using a spoon, I drop dollops of dough directly onto the simmering broth. I cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes, until they’re fluffy and cooked through.

Step 6: Finish and serve

I season the broth with extra salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.

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Tips

If you want even richer flavor, I sometimes add a splash of heavy cream to the broth at the end. I also like to make the dumplings a little extra herby by mixing in chopped parsley or chives right into the dough. And don’t overmix the dumpling batter — keeping it a bit rough makes them softer and fluffier!

Ways to Serve

I love serving chicken and dumplings as a complete meal on its own. You can pair it with a light green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the broth. It’s also great reheated the next day for an easy, comforting lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the broth and chicken in advance. Add the dumplings fresh when you reheat so they stay fluffy.

What kind of chicken is best for chicken and dumplings?

I love using thighs because they’re extra juicy, but breasts work just as well if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

You can freeze the chicken and broth, but I recommend making fresh dumplings when serving to keep them light.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this chicken and dumplings recipe a try! It’s one of my favorite comfort meals, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Please share your photos or leave a comment below — I always enjoy seeing your creations!

Happy Cooking!