When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the classic delight of Easy Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is a celebration of warmth, flavor, and delightful textures, making it perfect for any meal. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner for yourself or a dish to share with family and friends, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
What makes Easy Chicken and Dumplings so universally loved? It’s simple: the harmony of tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. With minimal effort, you can whip up a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. The balance of flavors and textures offers something for everyone, making it not only a family favorite but also great for gatherings. Plus, the recipe’s simplicity means you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen; instead, you’ll be enjoying a hearty and homely meal.
Ingredients about Easy Chicken and Dumplings
To make Easy Chicken and Dumplings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup refrigerated biscuit dough (or your favorite type)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients combine to create a symphony of flavors. The creamy broth, paired with the savory chicken and tender dumplings, results in a dish that’s sure to satisfy.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Dumplings Directions
Preparing Easy Chicken and Dumplings is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps to make your own delicious pot of comfort:
- Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all the ingredients listed above. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process smoother.
- Cook the Base: In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Turn the heat to medium and stir in the garlic powder and onion powder.
- Add the Vegetables: Once the mixture begins to simmer, toss in the mixed vegetables. If you’re using frozen vegetables, there’s no need to thaw; they will cook perfectly in the broth.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Stir in your shredded cooked chicken. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, so the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Prepare the Dumplings: While the broth is simmering, take your biscuit dough and cut it into quarters. You can use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors for this task.
- Drop in the Dumplings: Gently drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering broth. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot—this allows the dumplings to rise and become fluffy.
- Cover and Cook: Once all the dumplings are added, cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the dumplings will expand and cook through. Keep an eye on them; they should be light and fluffy when done.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the pot from heat and serve the Easy Chicken and Dumplings hot. You can ladle the dish into bowls and enjoy the comforting flavors that fill the air.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Serving Easy Chicken and Dumplings is as simple as making it. You can present this dish in a large serving bowl for family-style dining or portion it into individual bowls for a more personal touch.
You might want to accompany your meal with a green salad or crusty bread, which contrasts the rich broth beautifully. Since this dish is wonderful on its own, you can keep it simple. Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, like parsley, gives a pop of color and freshness on top. It’s also perfect for a cozy night in during colder months, bringing warmth and comfort right to your table.
Expert Tips: Easy Chicken and Dumplings
To elevate your Easy Chicken and Dumplings, consider the following expert tips:
- Homemade Chicken Stock: If you want to enhance the flavor even more, try making your own chicken stock. Use leftover bones and veggies for the richest taste.
- Dumpling Variations: Consider using different types of biscuits or make your own dumplings from scratch for a unique twist. They can also be flavored with herbs and spices to elevate the dish.
- Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken you have on hand.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the broth for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetables Galore: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to your preference or seasonal availability. Fresh vegetables can enhance the overall dish!
How to Store Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Storing Easy Chicken and Dumplings is straightforward.
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, consider freezing it. When freezing, it’s best to separate the dumplings from the broth. You can store the broth in one container and the dumplings in another. This prevents the dumplings from becoming overly soggy. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to revive the consistency.
Variation of Easy Chicken and Dumplings
There are plenty of variations you can explore to make Easy Chicken and Dumplings your own:
- Curry Chicken and Dumplings: Add curry powder to your broth for a unique twist that indulges your taste buds.
- Cheesy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in some shredded cheese into the broth before adding the dumplings. This will create a creamy, cheesy flavor everyone will enjoy.
- Herbed Chicken and Dumplings: Mix in various herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to the broth for an aromatic experience.
- Vegetable-Only Dumplings: For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute the chicken with more veggies or plant-based chicken alternatives and use vegetable broth instead.
Feel free to play around with flavors and textures to find the perfect rendition for your taste!
FAQ
What makes this Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe so easy?
This recipe simplifies the traditional chicken and dumplings process by using shredded cooked chicken and refrigerated biscuit dough, which reduces preparation time.
Can I use frozen chicken in this Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook it thoroughly before shredding it and adding it to the broth.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use low-fat cream, whole grain biscuits, and add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value of this dish.
Can I make Easy Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and chicken a day in advance; just add the dumplings when you’re ready to serve.
What should I serve with Easy Chicken and Dumplings?
A simple green salad or crusty bread complements the creaminess of the dish beautifully.
Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 can chicken broth (15 oz) Use homemade for more flavor if desired.
- 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with low-fat cream for a healthier option.
- 1 cup refrigerated biscuit dough Can use homemade dumplings for a unique twist.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn) Fresh or frozen vegetables work well.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all the ingredients.
- Cook the Base: In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Turn the heat to medium and stir in the garlic powder and onion powder.
- Add the Vegetables: Once the mixture begins to simmer, toss in the mixed vegetables.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Stir in your shredded cooked chicken, season with salt and pepper, and allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the Dumplings: Cut the biscuit dough into quarters.
- Drop in the Dumplings: Gently drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering broth.
- Cover and Cook: Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the dumplings are cooked, serve hot.
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