Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
A Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) recipe brings heartwarming comfort to any table. This classic dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings enveloped in a creamy sauce, this recipe stands out as a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting dish on the table in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and satisfying textures.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the veggies or use leftover chicken, making it adaptable to your pantry.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying this delicious meal with loved ones.
- Creamy Goodness: The rich sauce elevates the flavors and makes for a delightful experience in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
To make Chicken and Dumplings (Easy), you’ll need some essential tools that streamline the cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your kitchen.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Perfect for simmering all ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, which is crucial for even cooking.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you make this recipe.
Ingredients
A Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) recipe requires simple yet flavorful ingredients:
For the Soup 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
- 4 carrots (cut in half lengthwise and then diced)
- 4 celery stalks (diced)
- 2 small yellow onions (diced finely)
For the Dumplings
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 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 Soup Base
- In a large pot, melt the salted butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in 8 cups of water along with 4 tablespoons of Better than Bouillon Chicken. Stir well.
Step 2: Add Chicken
- Incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken into the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Batter
- In a separate bowl, combine Bisquick, flour, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and milk.
- Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
- Once the soup is simmering, drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the soup.
- Cover and cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Step 5: Serve
- Check that dumplings are cooked through before serving.
- Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy your Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)!
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Serving Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) is all about creating a cozy, inviting meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this classic comfort food.
Family Style
- Share the pot: Serve the chicken and dumplings directly from the pot at the table for a communal dining experience.
- Use large bowls: Provide deep bowls so everyone can indulge in generous portions of this hearty dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for added color and flavor.
- Add thyme or rosemary: A few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance the aromatic profile of your dish.
Accompanying Bread
- Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Try cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with chicken and dumplings, adding a touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
With a Side Salad
- Green salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, making it a great side option.
As Leftovers
- Reheat gently: Enjoy leftovers by reheating on low heat to maintain creaminess without drying out.
- Transform into a casserole: Combine leftovers in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a new take on the recipe.
How to Perfect Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
To achieve perfection in your Chicken and Dumplings (Easy), consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.
- Use quality chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Don’t rush the simmer: Allow your soup to simmer gently. This enhances flavors and ensures tender dumplings.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go. Adding spices gradually helps create a well-balanced flavor profile.
- Dumpling texture matters: Ensure your dumpling dough is not overmixed; it should be light and fluffy when dropped into the broth.
- Add vegetables wisely: Include vegetables like peas or green beans right before serving for freshness and color.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The dumplings may absorb broth, so add more liquid when reheating.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
Pairing side dishes with Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is ideal for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide both nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as another comforting option that complements your main dish well.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a cool crunch that balances the richness of chicken and dumplings.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that’s easy to prepare alongside your main course.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will elevate your dish.
- Using raw chicken: Always use cooked or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture. Raw chicken can lead to undercooked dumplings and unsafe eating.
- Ignoring seasoning: A bland dish is unappealing. Ensure to season your broth well with salt and spices to enhance the overall flavor.
- Overmixing dumpling batter: When making dumplings, mix just until combined. Overmixing can create dense dumplings instead of fluffy ones.
- Skipping the simmer step: Letting the mixture simmer is crucial for developing flavors. Rushing this step may result in a less flavorful dish.
- Not adjusting thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add more milk or broth slowly until you reach your desired consistency. A creamy sauce complements the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chicken and Dumplings (Easy).
What kind of chicken should I use?
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. You can also cook large chicken breasts if preferred.
Can I make Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead but it’s best to add dumplings right before serving to keep them fluffy.
How do I make gluten-free dumplings?
Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour when making the dumpling batter.
What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include peas, green beans, or potatoes for added texture and flavor in your Chicken and Dumplings (Easy).
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) is a delightful recipe that brings comfort food to a new level. With its creamy texture and tender dumplings, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours! Try this recipe today; it’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those cozy family dinners or gatherings. This simple recipe features tender rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings all simmered in a creamy, savory broth. With just 15 minutes of preparation, you can create a heartwarming meal that not only satisfies but also warms the soul. The one-pot approach means less cleanup and more time to enjoy this classic dish with loved ones. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, Chicken and Dumplings (Easy) will soon become your go-to comfort food.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 cups water
- 4 tablespoons Better than Bouillon Chicken
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 carrots, diced
- 4 celery stalks, diced
- 2 small yellow onions, diced
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery until soft (5–7 minutes).
- Add water and Better than Bouillon Chicken; stir well.
- Incorporate shredded chicken into the pot and bring to a gentle simmer.
- In a bowl, mix Bisquick with flour, milk, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Ensure dumplings are cooked through before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
