Best Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Tender chicken simmered in a creamy broth with fluffy dumplings is Southern comfort at its finest. This family-favorite chicken dish is protein-rich and perfect for cozy, chilly evenings.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 395 kcal
#high protein #comfort food #southern #family dinner
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • boneless, skinless chicken thighs 2 lbs
  • yellow onion 1 cup
  • celery 1 cup
  • carrots 1 cup
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
  • all-purpose flour 1.5 cups
  • whole milk 0.75 cup
  • baking powder 2 tsp
  • chicken broth 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 1 tsp
  • dried thyme 0.5 tsp
  • fresh parsley 0.25 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 30 g 30%
Protein 30 g 30%
Fat 16 g 40%
Serving size 390g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions, celery, and carrots, sautéing for 5 minutes until vegetables soften.

  2. 2

    Add chicken thighs to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is fork-tender.

  3. 3

    Remove the chicken and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the simmering broth with vegetables. Stir in salt, pepper, and thyme. Let simmer on low while you prepare dumplings.

  4. 4

    For the dumplings, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly stir in milk until just combined—do not overmix.

  5. 5

    Drop tablespoon-size portions of dumpling batter into simmering soup. Cover tightly and cook on low for 18–20 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing steam to cook the dumplings and keep them fluffy.

  6. 6

    Check that dumplings are cooked through and fluffy in the center, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Chicken and Dumplings recipe?
The star ingredient is boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Their rich flavor and tender texture hold up beautifully during simmering, infusing the creamy broth and pairing perfectly with the soft dumplings. The classic combination of chicken, vegetables, and fresh herbs truly defines this comforting dish.
Q. How do I keep the dumplings perfectly fluffy and avoid dense results?
Gently mix the dumpling dough—overmixing will make them tough. Drop spoonfuls of dough into simmering (not boiling) broth, then cover the pot tightly and do not lift the lid while the dumplings steam for 18–20 minutes. This precise heat management ensures light, fluffy dumplings every time.
Q. What nutritional highlights does this recipe offer?
Each serving provides about 395 kcal, with 30g of protein, 30g of carbs, and 16g of fat. The balanced macronutrient split (30% protein, 30% carbs, 40% fat) makes it a protein-rich family meal ideal for those seeking hearty comfort and balanced nutrition.
Q. Which step is most critical for preventing dry chicken?
It's essential to simmer chicken thighs gently in broth and not overboil them. Covering and cooking on low for the recommended 30 minutes keeps the chicken moist and easy to shred, preventing dryness or stringiness.
Q. Can I make this dish ahead of time for a family dinner?
Absolutely! Prepare the base and shredded chicken up to a day ahead, then make and cook the dumplings just before serving. This ensures the dumplings stay light and broth remains creamy for a perfect comfort meal when needed.
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