Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is my go-to comfort food on chilly evenings. I discovered this game-changing recipe when my family needed something warm and satisfying after long days. The combination of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich broth never fails to bring everyone to the table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
For this comforting Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe, I always gather my ingredients first to ensure a smooth cooking process. The combination of fresh vegetables and quality chicken makes all the difference in the final flavor.
- 3 pounds boneless chicken thighs and breasts (I recommend using a mix for the best texture and flavor)
- 1/4 cup butter (My preference is unsalted to control the seasoning)
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups chopped celery
- 1 1/2 cups chopped carrots
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 whole bay leaf
- 8 cups chicken stock (I usually use low-sodium to control salt levels)
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (Pro tip: for gluten-free, use 1-to-1 baking flour mix)
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening (butter flavored)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend preparing all your ingredients before starting to make the process flow smoothly. This Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe comes together beautifully when you follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Set a large pot over medium heat. Add butter and onions, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in celery and carrots, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 2: Add chicken pieces, thyme, bay leaf, and broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 3: While chicken cooks, prepare dumplings by mixing flour, shortening, salt, and baking powder until it resembles oatmeal. Stir in buttermilk until mostly smooth with some small lumps remaining.
Step 4: Roll dough to 1/8-1/4 inch thickness and cut into 1×1.5 inch pieces. Remove chicken from broth and shred with two forks.
Step 5: Add dumplings to simmering broth, a handful at a time, stirring gently. Cook for 8-10 minutes until dumplings are firm. Return shredded chicken to pot with parsley, stir, and serve once broth has thickened.
What to Serve with Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with sides that complement its rich, comforting flavors. Here are my favorite accompaniments that balance the meal perfectly.
Buttery Biscuits: These add an extra layer of comfort and are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. Try my cheesy garlic chicken wraps for a similar flavor profile.
Southern Green Beans: The crisp-tender texture and slight acidity provide a nice contrast to the creamy dumplings. These pair well with other Southern classics like my creamy smothered chicken and rice.
Caesar Salad: The fresh, crisp greens with tangy dressing cut through the richness of the main dish. For another comforting soup option, try my white chicken chili.
Mashed Potatoes: For those who love extra comfort, these add another creamy element to the meal. Similar to my chicken pot pie soup, this combination creates ultimate comfort.
Roasted Root Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes complements the savory chicken perfectly. These vegetables also work well in my rotisserie chicken mushroom soup.
Storage & Serving Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
For freezing, transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. I recommend thawing completely in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop over medium heat.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock if the broth has thickened too much. Pro tip: if you’re planning to make this ahead, undercook the dumplings slightly as they’ll continue to absorb liquid when stored.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour mix for the dumplings.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely, shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Just add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Why are my dumplings falling apart?
You might be overcooking them or stirring too vigorously. Cook for just 8-10 minutes and stir gently only once or twice.
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set a large pot over medium heat. Add butter and onions, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in celery and carrots, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add chicken pieces, thyme, bay leaf, and broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- While chicken cooks, prepare dumplings by mixing flour, shortening, salt, and baking powder until it resembles oatmeal. Stir in buttermilk until mostly smooth with some small lumps remaining.
- Roll dough to 1/8-1/4 inch thickness and cut into 1×1.5 inch pieces. Remove chicken from broth and shred with two forks.
- Add dumplings to simmering broth, a handful at a time, stirring gently. Cook for 8-10 minutes until dumplings are firm. Return shredded chicken to pot with parsley, stir, and serve once broth has thickened.
