Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings. It’s the perfect dish for cozy nights or when I’m feeling under the weather.
The rich, savory gravy envelops tender chicken and vegetables, making every bite a delight. And those dumplings? They’re fluffy pillows of goodness that soak up all the flavors.
I love how easy it’s to make, too—just toss everything together and let it simmer. This recipe fills my home with warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings and hearty meals shared with loved ones.
You’ll adore it!
Ingredients of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to whipping up a comforting dish, chicken and dumplings are a classic that never disappoints. The blend of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings all swimming in a savory gravy is the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug.
Plus, the best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already, making it an easy go-to for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast. So, let’s get to the good stuff—the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful dish.
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cubed
- 16 baby carrots, cut into circles
- 3 stalks celery, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1/4 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups water (approx)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley
Now, while these ingredients are the stars of the show, feel free to get creative. Maybe you have some leftover veggies in the fridge that need to be used up—throw them in!
I once added some corn I’d lying around, and it turned out surprisingly delicious. And don’t stress too much about exact measurements; cooking is all about having fun and adjusting to your taste.
If you want your dumplings fluffier, add a touch more milk. Want a heartier meal? Toss in more chicken. This recipe is forgiving and just waiting for you to make it your own.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s plunge into making this comforting bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings. Start by grabbing a large, deep sauté pan—think of it as the stage for our culinary performance.
Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it up over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add in 1 1/2 pounds of cubed, boneless, skinless chicken breast halves. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and just a pinch of salt (1/8 teaspoon), then sauté the chicken until it’s just slightly browned. You don’t want to cook it all the way through at this point; we’re just getting a nice sear on it. The smell will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s a good one.
Next up, it’s time for some veggies to join the party. Toss in 16 baby carrots, sliced into circles, and 3 stalks of celery, cut into 1/2 inch pieces. Let them mingle and cook together for about five minutes.
Then, add approximately 2 1/2 cups of water, stirring everything together. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You want those carrots to get tender, but not mushy. After the timer goes off, lift the lid and take a peek. If everything looks good, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken up the gravy. If it gets too thick, no worries—just add a splash more water.
Finally, toss in 1/4 cup of frozen peas and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
Now, let’s whip up the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of Bisquick baking mix, 2/3 cup of milk, and 1/2 tablespoon of dried parsley. Your dough is going to be thick—like, “good luck trying to spread this with a spoon” thick.
Using a regular tablespoon, dollop scoops of that mixture right on top of your bubbling stew. Let those beauties simmer uncovered for ten minutes, and then cover the pan and let them go for another ten. The dumplings should puff up beautifully, creating a fluffy topping for your savory chicken stew.
Once they’re done, scoop them out, and don’t forget to pour some of that delicious gravy over the top for serving. It’s like giving your dumplings a cozy blanket. Enjoy the warm hug of this dish, and remember, it’s all about making it your own.
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the classic homemade chicken and dumplings, you might find yourself wanting to put your own twist on this comforting dish.
I love swapping chicken for turkey or even using rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. You can also add different vegetables like green beans or corn for a pop of color.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. For a healthier version, use whole wheat flour in the dumplings.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with gluten-free baking mixes, too. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so much fun!
What to Serve with Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
While homemade chicken and dumplings make for a hearty meal on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience.
I love serving a crisp green salad alongside, as it adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or green beans, complement the flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying crunch.
If you’re feeling indulgent, some warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious gravy.
Finally, a light dessert, such as fruit cobbler or a simple sorbet, rounds out the meal without overwhelming your palate. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
If you want to enhance your chicken and dumplings experience, consider a few helpful tips. First, use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
I love adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the dish. If you prefer a heartier version, toss in some diced potatoes along with the carrots and celery.
For a lighter dumpling, try using yogurt instead of milk in the Bisquick mixture. Finally, don’t rush the simmering process. Letting the flavors meld together really makes a difference.
Trust me, these little tweaks can elevate your dish to the next level! Enjoy!