Cozy Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe to Savor

Name: Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 cup whole milk; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 2 tsp fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

September 24, 2025

Updated:

September 24, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings. Imagine tender chicken nestled in a rich, savory broth, surrounded by pillowy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds with hints of herbs and spices, making it impossible to resist.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather. I remember the first time my grandma made this for me—my family was gathered around the table, laughter filling the room as we savored every last bite. Homemade Chicken and Dumplings have become a staple at family gatherings, always promising warmth and joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means you can whip it up any night of the week.
Its rich flavor profile will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Visually appealing with its creamy broth and fluffy dumplings, it’s a feast for both the eyes and stomach.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have in your pantry.

I still remember my cousin’s surprised face when he discovered how delicious homemade chicken and dumplings could be; he went back for seconds… and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal; adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; cut them into small chunks.
Celery Stalks: They provide crunch and depth; chop them finely for even cooking.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while ensuring rich flavor.
Dumpling Mix (Flour, Baking Powder): This is key for fluffy dumplings; sift them together to avoid lumps.
Milk: Whole milk gives your dumplings that creamy texture they crave.
Butter: A touch of butter enhances richness—who can say no to that?
Herbs (Thyme, Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate flavors; use them generously!
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together harmoniously.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Prepare Your Chicken Base: Start by dicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add in carrots and celery—let those colors brighten up your kitchen while they soften nicely.

Add Broth and Simmer Away!: Pour in the chicken broth along with your chopped chicken. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer; let it bubble away like it’s gossiping about who knows what! Allow about 20 minutes for flavors to meld beautifully.

Create Those Fluffy Dumplings!: In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, milk, melted butter, and a pinch of salt—mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing as you want those little pillows of heaven to stay fluffy!

Dropping Dumplings into Broth: Gently scoop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture right into the bubbling broth. They will float on top like cute little boats! Cover with a lid and let them steam for about 15 minutes.

Finish It Off With Fresh Herbs!: Once your dumplings are cooked through (they’ll puff up beautifully), sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve hot and enjoy that glorious aroma filling your home!

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is more than just food; it’s nostalgia served warm in a bowl!

You Must Know

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is comfort food that warms the heart.
The creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings create a symphony of flavors and textures.
This dish is perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little culinary hug.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to develop a rich flavor, then simmer it with vegetables before adding the dumplings. This sequence ensures everything cooks beautifully together, creating a harmonious dish.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out chicken for turkey or adding your favorite veggies like carrots or peas. Experiment with spices like thyme or rosemary for added depth and personal flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always choose bone-in chicken for richer flavor; it enhances the broth wonderfully.
Avoid overmixing dumpling dough to keep them light and fluffy.
For maximum flavor, let your broth simmer longer to develop its richness.

It was a cold winter evening when I first made this dish for my family. Their smiles said it all as they dug into the comforting bowl of goodness, making me feel like a kitchen hero.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

How do I make dumplings fluffier?

Add baking powder to your dumpling mixture and avoid overmixing.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Just store it properly and reheat gently before serving.

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