Creamy Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in! This hearty dish features tender chunks of chicken in a rich, velvety broth, paired with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the flavorful goodness. With a blend of savory herbs and creamy texture, every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a meal to feed the family, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Ready to discover the best way to enjoy this classic? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
This Creamy Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: A healthy fat for sautéing, adding flavor and richness.
Onion: Diced onion brings a sweet and savory base to the dish.
Carrots: These add a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Celery: A classic aromatic that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic essence.
Dried thyme: This herb adds a subtle earthiness that complements the chicken.
Dried rosemary: A fragrant herb that brings a hint of pine flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Chicken broth: The heart of the dish, providing depth and moisture.
Cooked, shredded chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach your own for convenience.
Frozen peas: These add a burst of color and sweetness, plus they’re easy to use.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the dish creamy and indulgent.
All-purpose flour: The base for the dumplings, giving them structure.
Baking powder: This helps the dumplings rise and become fluffy.
Milk: Adds moisture to the dumpling batter, making it tender.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter enriches the dumplings with flavor.
Fresh parsley: A lovely garnish that adds freshness and color.
For those looking to lighten things up, consider substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream and using skinless chicken breast. You can also toss in your favorite vegetables like corn or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition. Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This process is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it feel like home. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to let those flavors mingle.
Step 2: Simmer the Chicken Mixture
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Add the shredded chicken and frozen peas, stirring them in. Then, pour in the heavy cream, which will give the dish its signature creamy texture. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the dumplings. This step allows the flavors to deepen and develop.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix! You want the dumplings to be light and fluffy, not dense.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Now it’s time to drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken mixture. Make sure to cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid. This is crucial! The steam will help them rise and become fluffy. You’ll know they’re done when they look puffy and cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Creamy Chicken and Dumplings hot, and watch as your family gathers around the table, ready to dig in. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking; it’s essential for fluffiness.
Feel free to adjust seasonings to suit your family’s taste preferences.
For a thicker sauce, let the chicken mixture simmer a bit longer before adding dumplings.
Equipment Needed
Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot is essential for even cooking.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
Mixing bowls: Use two for combining wet and dry ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
Serving spoon: For ladling out those delicious portions!
Variations
For a healthier twist, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light sour cream.
Add a splash of white wine to the chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Try using different herbs, such as dill or basil, to change up the flavor profile.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Chicken and Dumplings with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
A side of garlic bread or crusty rolls is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water for a delightful meal.
For presentation, sprinkle extra parsley on top for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding it for the recipe. This will add a bit more time, but it’s a great option if you don’t have leftovers on hand.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Creamy Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also check that your baking powder is gluten-free. The dumplings will still turn out fluffy and delicious!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just make the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken and Dumplings?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. The fresh crunch of a salad complements the creamy texture perfectly. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens. Enjoy your comforting meal again!
Final Thoughts
Making Creamy Chicken and Dumplings is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. The warmth of the dish wraps around you like a cozy blanket, inviting everyone to gather and share their day. I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that feels special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a chilly weekend, this dish brings joy to the table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. Trust me, your family will thank you for this delicious hug in a bowl!
A comforting and creamy dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken and frozen peas, then stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the dumplings.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Once the dumplings are cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use skinless chicken breast.
Add your favorite vegetables like corn or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
