Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) offers a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family gatherings, chilly evenings, or any occasion that calls for warmth and flavor. This classic dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that evokes nostalgia while being simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of spices and the creamy sauce create a comforting flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Option: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it’s sure to impress family and friends.
• Kid-Friendly: The soft dumplings and savory chicken are loved by children, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes to clean means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes this cooking process smoother. With minimal equipment needed, you’ll be on your way to enjoying Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) in no time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the chicken and broth together, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you prep time.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for preparing your dumpling dough without creating a mess in your main cooking pot.

Ingredients

A old fashioned chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food featuring chicken, veggies, and tender dumplings all simmered in a creamy sauce.

For the Chicken Base

• 3 to 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded or 2 large chicken breasts cooked and shredded)
• 8 cups water
• 4 tablespoons Better than Bouillon Chicken
• 4 tablespoons salted butter

For the Vegetables

• 4 carrots (cut in half lengthwise and then diced)
• 4 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 small yellow onions (diced finely)

For the Creamy Sauce

• ½ cup flour
• 1 cup milk

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups Bisquick
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ⅔ cup milk

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. In a large pot, melt the salted butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in 8 cups of water along with Better than Bouillon Chicken. Stir well.

Step 2: Add Chicken

1. Once the broth is simmering, add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts.
2. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to enhance flavors.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together flour with milk until smooth.
2. Gradually stir this mixture into your simmering broth until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Make the Dumpling Mixture

1. In another bowl, combine Bisquick with salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning.
2. Add ⅔ cup milk to create a soft dough.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

1. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering broth.
2. Cover tightly and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, ladle into bowls and enjoy your warm Chicken and Dumplings (Easy).

This recipe provides not only comfort but also brings joy to every dining experience!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

Serving chicken and dumplings is a delightful experience that brings warmth to any table. This classic dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Traditional Bowl

• Serve the chicken and dumplings hot in deep bowls, allowing everyone to enjoy the creamy sauce with tender dumplings.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or thyme. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

Accompanied by Bread

• Offer crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side. Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth!

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple vinaigrette works wonders!

Family Style Serving

• Place a large pot on the table. Let everyone help themselves for a communal dining experience.

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How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

Perfecting chicken and dumplings requires attention to detail for that ultimate comfort dish. Here are some tips to achieve great results:

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken for ease or slow-cook your own for extra flavor.
• Don’t Overmix Dumpling Batter: Mixing just until combined ensures light and fluffy dumplings.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low while cooking; this prevents the broth from boiling over and helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Add Vegetables Early: Incorporating veggies early allows them to soften and infuse their flavors into the broth.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit a few minutes before serving lets flavors develop further.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

Pairing side dishes with chicken and dumplings can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and color to your plate.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a nice texture contrast against the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil, these sprouts offer a nutty flavor that complements the dish well.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for an indulgent addition that’s hard to resist!
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly, offering a delightful sweetness alongside savory flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: Lightly dressed cucumber salad adds refreshing crunch, balancing out the richness of chicken and dumplings.
7. Baked Apples: For dessert, consider baked apples with cinnamon as a sweet finish after your hearty meal.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate, providing a sweet contrast after savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.

• Ignoring the chicken quality: Using low-quality chicken can affect the dish’s flavor. Always opt for rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked breasts for better taste.
• Overcooking dumplings: Dumplings that are cooked too long can become dense. Follow the cooking time closely to ensure they stay fluffy and tender.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting for seasoning can lead to blandness. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference before serving.
• Using cold milk: Adding cold milk directly can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Warm the milk slightly before incorporating it into the mixture.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Skipping the simmering time may result in an underdeveloped flavor. Allow sufficient time for all ingredients to meld together.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth, stirring regularly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used instead of fresh ones. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I make homemade dumplings?

You can create homemade dumplings using flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and melted butter. Mix until just combined and drop into simmering broth.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is ideal for its flavor and ease. You can also use poached or boiled chicken breasts if preferred.

Can I customize my Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like peas or green beans, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough to accommodate various personal touches. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish for family gatherings, this recipe has you covered. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!