24 Homemade Chicken and Dumpling Ideas That’ll Warm Your Soul!
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming embrace of chicken and dumplings.
This collection of 24 homemade recipes is designed to warm your soul and fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of simmering goodness.
From classic takes to creative twists, each idea promises to bring smiles around the dinner table. Get ready to explore a variety of flavors, textures, and techniques that make chicken and dumplings a beloved staple in homes everywhere.
1. Classic Chicken and Dumplings
There’s nothing quite like the classic chicken and dumplings recipe to evoke nostalgia and comfort.
Tender chicken is simmered with fragrant herbs and vegetables, then lovingly enveloped by fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory flavors. This dish is a staple in many households, often passed down through generations, making it a true heartwarming meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner when you need a little TLC.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350, Protein: 23g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots, chopped
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 cup onion, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add the chicken and broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until a dough forms.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Tips: Ensure the broth is simmering before adding dumplings to achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken? Yes! This is a great way to use leftovers.
– Can I freeze chicken and dumplings? Yes, but the dumplings may become soggy upon reheating.
2. Creamy Chicken and Dumplings Casserole
Take the comforting flavors of chicken and dumplings and transform them into a delightful casserole.
This creamy version combines shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, and a rich sauce, all baked under a layer of golden-brown dumplings. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeknights and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 8
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
– Calories: 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400, Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups biscuit dough (store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
4. Tear biscuit dough into pieces and place on top of the chicken mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the dumplings are golden and the filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use homemade biscuit dough? Absolutely! Homemade biscuits will add a delightful touch.
3. Spicy Southwest Chicken and Dumplings
Why not add a spicy twist to your traditional chicken and dumplings?
This Southwest version features tender chicken simmered in a zesty broth infused with spices like cumin, chili powder, and jalapeños. Topped with hearty dumplings, this dish is sure to awaken your taste buds and bring a new level of excitement to dinner. It’s perfect for those who crave a little heat in their comfort food!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: 450 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 4g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup corn, frozen
– 1 cup flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 jalapeño, diced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil.
2. Stir in shredded chicken, tomatoes, corn, cumin, chili powder, jalapeño, and salt.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the boiling broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the kick!
Tips: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, leftover turkey works great in this recipe.
4. Herbed Chicken and Dumplings with Garlic
Elevate your chicken and dumplings with a medley of fresh herbs and roasted garlic for an aromatic twist.
This recipe combines tender chicken with a flavorful broth infused with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, complemented by the rich taste of roasted garlic. The result is a dish that not only warms the soul but also enchants the senses with its aromatic profile. Perfect for a comforting dinner on a chilly evening!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: 380 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 380, Protein: 26g, Carbohydrates: 32g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 head of garlic, roasted
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, sauté carrots and celery until softened.
2. Add chicken, broth, roasted garlic, and herbs, bringing to a simmer.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk to create a dough.
4. Drop dumpling dough into the broth and cover.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips: Roasting the garlic enhances its sweetness, so don’t skip this step!
Frequently Asked Questions:
– How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Substitute chicken with mushrooms and vegetable broth.
5. Thai Coconut Chicken and Dumplings
Take your taste buds on an adventure with a Thai-inspired chicken and dumplings dish!
This unique recipe uses coconut milk and Thai spices to create a creamy, fragrant broth filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. Infused with flavors of lemongrass, ginger, and lime, this dish is a refreshing twist on the traditional comfort food, making it a delightful surprise for your family and friends.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: 420 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 420, Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 2g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cans coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine coconut milk, chicken broth, lemongrass paste, ginger, and lime juice. Bring to a simmer.
2. Stir in shredded chicken and let it cook for 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve with lime wedges and cilantro.
Tips: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an aromatic finish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Is coconut milk necessary for this recipe? Yes, it gives the dish its unique flavor.
6. One-Pot Lemon Chicken and Dumplings
Brighten up your dinner routine with this one-pot lemon chicken and dumplings recipe!
The zesty flavor of lemon adds a refreshing twist to the traditional dish, while the simplicity of using just one pot means less cleanup. This dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick, easy, and flavorful. The combination of lemon and herbs creates a lively aroma that fills your kitchen and lifts your spirits.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: 390 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 390, Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, lemon zest, and juice.
2. Add diced chicken, carrots, and celery, and bring to a simmer.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to create a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve garnished with additional lemon zest and parsley.
Tips: Add a splash of white wine for enhanced flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just increase the cooking time slightly.
7. Italian Chicken and Dumplings
Transport your taste buds to Italy with this delightful Italian chicken and dumplings dish!
Packed with flavors of basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe incorporates traditional Italian ingredients that elevate the humble chicken and dumplings to new heights. The dumplings are infused with Italian herbs, making every bite a burst of flavor. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated meal, perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: 410 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 410, Protein: 29g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 12g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine chicken broth, diced chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk to form a dough.
3. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
4. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
5. Serve garnished with fresh basil.
Tips: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, just be sure to remove excess moisture.
8. Southern-Style Chicken and Dumplings
Indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of Southern-style chicken and dumplings, where comfort food reaches its peak!
This recipe features succulent chicken simmered in a creamy broth, accompanied by homemade dumplings that are soft and fluffy. The secret lies in the use of buttermilk in the dumplings, which adds an extra layer of flavor and tenderness. Perfect for family dinners, this dish embodies the essence of Southern hospitality.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: 460 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 460, Protein: 32g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 4g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.
2. Stir in shredded chicken and let cook.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add buttermilk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Tips: Use leftover roast chicken for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, substitute with gluten-free flour.
9. Rustic Chicken and Dumplings with Vegetables
Celebrate the bounty of fresh vegetables with this rustic chicken and dumplings recipe!
This dish is a delightful medley of seasonal vegetables mixed with tender chicken and homemade dumplings, all simmered in a flavorful broth. Each bite is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, making it not only comforting but also nourishing. It’s a perfect dish for using up leftovers from your garden or farmer’s market.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: 390 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 390, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 12g, Fiber: 5g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup green beans, chopped
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup potatoes, diced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer.
2. Add diced chicken, green beans, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot, enjoying the hearty flavors.
Tips: Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, just add them in with the broth.
10. Skillet Chicken and Dumplings
For a quick and easy dinner, try this skillet chicken and dumplings recipe that’s ready in under an hour!
Cooking everything in one skillet saves time and cleanup, while still delivering that comforting taste. Juicy chicken is seared to perfection, then simmered with a creamy sauce and topped with easy drop dumplings. This speedy take on a classic will become a favorite in your household!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned.
2. Stir in chicken broth and cream, bringing to a simmer.
3. Add frozen peas and cook until heated through.
4. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to form a dough.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering mixture.
6. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
7. Serve hot.
Tips: Use a cast iron skillet for better heat distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers or carrots would be great additions.
11. Garlic Butter Chicken and Dumplings
Indulge in the rich, buttery flavors of garlic butter chicken and dumplings!
This recipe takes the traditional chicken and dumplings to new heights with the addition of garlic butter, creating a luxurious and comforting dish. The dumplings soak up the delicious garlic flavor, making each bite utterly delectable. Perfect for special occasions or when you just want to treat yourself!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: 450 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450, Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup butter
– 1 head of garlic, minced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Stir in chicken and broth, bringing to a simmer.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to create a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the garlic butter mixture.
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Tips: For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use less butter? You can reduce the amount, but the flavor may not be as rich.
12. Beer-Braised Chicken and Dumplings
For a unique twist, try beer-braised chicken and dumplings, combining hearty flavors with a touch of fun!
The addition of beer to the broth creates a rich and complex flavor, while the chicken becomes tender and juicy. Paired with soft dumplings, this dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Your guests will be impressed with the unexpected twist on this classic favorite!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: 420 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 420, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups beer (lager or ale)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup onions, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, sauté onions until softened, then add beer and chicken broth.
2. Stir in shredded chicken and bring to a simmer.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering mixture.
5. Cover and cook for 20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the rich flavors.
Tips: Pair this dish with a light beer for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use non-alcoholic beer? Yes, it will still work but with a different flavor profile.
13. Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Dumplings
Embark on a culinary journey with Moroccan spiced chicken and dumplings, a dish that blends exotic flavors with comfort food!
This recipe features tender chicken seasoned with warming spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, all simmered in a fragrant broth. The dumplings are infused with a hint of saffron, adding a unique twist to the traditional dish. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: 450 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 tablespoon coriander
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine chicken broth and spices, bringing to a simmer.
2. Stir in shredded chicken and cook for 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Tips: Serve with warm pita bread for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I add vegetables? Yes, bell peppers and zucchini would be great additions.
14. Vegan Chicken and Dumplings
Enjoy a comforting bowl of vegan chicken and dumplings that’s both hearty and satisfying!
This recipe uses plant-based chicken substitutes and a rich vegetable broth, creating a deliciously creamy dish. Infused with fresh herbs and spices, the dumplings are light and fluffy, making this a perfect comfort food without the meat. It’s a wonderful option for vegans and non-vegans alike!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: 320 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 320, Protein: 20g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 5g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups plant-based chicken, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup almond milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a simmer.
2. Stir in plant-based chicken, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add almond milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips: Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, just adjust the liquid accordingly.
15. Indian Butter Chicken and Dumplings
Spice up your dinner with Indian butter chicken and dumplings, a fusion dish that brings together two beloved cuisines!
The rich, buttery sauce flavored with Indian spices envelops tender chicken and dumplings, creating a comforting and aromatic meal. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a culinary adventure, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: 480 per serving
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 480, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 3g
Ingredients List:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 cups butter chicken sauce
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, heat butter chicken sauce and bring to a simmer.
2. Stir in shredded chicken and cook for 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk to form a dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the sauce.
5. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Tips: Serve with naan for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I make this dish spicier? Absolutely! Add more cayenne pepper to taste.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken and dumplings are undeniably a comfort food classic that can be adapted in countless delicious ways.
From traditional recipes to modern twists, these 24 ideas are sure to warm your heart and bring joy to your kitchen. Whether you prefer a creamy base, a spicy kick, or a veggie-packed version, there’s a chicken and dumpling recipe here for everyone to enjoy. So gather your loved ones and savor these soul-soothing dishes together!
