Classic Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Tender pieces of chicken simmer in a rich, creamy broth alongside soft, pillowy dumplings and simple vegetables like carrots and peas. Every spoonful delivers cozy, homemade flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl, making this dish perfect for family dinners, cold evenings, or whenever you crave something nourishing and familiar.
This recipe focuses on balance and texture. The chicken stays juicy, the broth is smooth and savory, and the dumplings cook up light and fluffy while soaking in all the comforting flavors around them. It’s a timeless dish that has been passed down through generations for good reason.
Why Chicken and Dumplings Is a Comfort Classic
Chicken and dumplings has earned its place as a beloved comfort food because it’s simple, filling, and incredibly soothing. It uses everyday ingredients, requires no fancy equipment, and delivers a meal that feels both hearty and gentle.
This dish is especially loved because:
- The broth is rich and creamy without being heavy
- The chicken is tender and flavorful
- The dumplings are soft and satisfying
- It’s a complete one-pot meal
Whether served for a cozy family dinner or made in a big batch for leftovers, chicken and dumplings always feels like home.
Ingredients
For the chicken stew
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts, boneless or bone-in
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning
For the dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How to Make Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Cook the chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on both sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
This step adds flavor to the base of the dish.
Step 2: Build the stew base
In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add carrots, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir well.
Step 3: Simmer the chicken
Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Remove the chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.
Step 4: Make it creamy
Stir in the milk or cream and add the peas. Let the stew simmer gently while you prepare the dumplings.
How to Make the Dumplings
Step 5: Prepare dumpling dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk and melted butter, stirring just until combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Do not overmix, as this can make the dumplings dense.
Step 6: Add dumplings to the stew
Using a spoon, drop small portions of dumpling dough directly into the simmering stew. Space them slightly apart, as they will expand while cooking.
Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 12–15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time—steam is essential for fluffy dumplings.
Step 7: Check for doneness
The dumplings should be firm, fluffy, and cooked through. Gently stir to combine everything evenly.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings
- Keep the stew at a gentle simmer, not a hard boil
- Do not overmix the dumpling dough
- Keep the pot covered while dumplings cook
- Use thighs for extra tenderness
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and dumplings is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with:
- Crusty bread
- A simple green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Fresh herbs sprinkled on top
Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as dumplings may change texture
The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers especially delicious.
Easy Variations
- Herb-forward: Add parsley or rosemary
- Extra creamy: Use all heavy cream
- Vegetable-rich: Add celery or corn
- Shortcut version: Use rotisserie chicken
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my dumplings dense?
The dough may have been overmixed or the stew boiled too hard.
Can I use canned biscuits?
Yes, cut them into pieces and add as dumplings for a shortcut version.
Is this dish supposed to be thick?
Yes. Chicken and dumplings should be creamy and stew-like, not soupy.
Classic Chicken and Dumplings is the definition of homemade comfort. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth, this timeless recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. It’s a dish you’ll return to again and again—simple, nourishing, and endlessly comforting.