There’s a certain magic in the simplicity of classic comfort foods, and few dishes capture that magic as perfectly as Chicken and Dumplings. For me, this dish brings back fond memories of chilly winter evenings spent with family. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of simmering chicken and fresh herbs would gently greet us as we walked through the door. The warm, hearty aroma would wrap around us like a cozy blanket, inviting us to gather around the table and savor a meal that felt both nurturing and indulgent.
Chicken and Dumplings has always been a staple in our family meals, especially during the colder months. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, with its creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings that seem to absorb all the savory flavors of the stew. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
This version of Chicken and Dumplings is straightforward and delicious, making it perfect for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices alike. Using convenient ingredients like heavy cream of chicken soup and Bisquick, it simplifies the cooking process while still delivering that classic, comforting taste. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this family favorite in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew:
2 packs (10.5 oz each) heavy cream of chicken soup
3 cans (14 ounces each) chicken broth
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
For the Dumplings:
2 cups Bisquick
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2/3 cup milk
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken Stew
Combine Ingredients: Start by combining the heavy cream of chicken soup and chicken broth in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Stir well until the mixture is homogeneous and the cream of chicken soup is fully blended with the broth.
Heat the Mixture: Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step helps to meld the flavors together and create a creamy base for the stew.
Add the Chicken: Once the mixture is boiling, add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the stew.
Simmer: Allow the chicken and broth mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, just enough to warm the chicken through. This step ensures that the chicken absorbs some of the flavors from the broth.
2. Prepare the Dumplings
Mix the Dumpling Ingredients: While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick, garlic powder, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Add the Milk: Pour in the milk and stir until a thick, sticky dough forms. The dough should be thick enough to hold its shape but still soft and pliable.
3. Cook the Dumplings
Scoop the Dumplings: Using a teaspoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the surface of the simmering chicken stew. Place the dumplings evenly over the surface of the pot, spacing them out to ensure they have room to expand.
Cover and Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the dumplings to cook for about 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid too frequently as this can release steam and affect the cooking process. The dumplings should be tender and fully cooked through.
Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, check the dumplings by gently poking them with a fork or toothpick. They should be fluffy and cooked all the way through. If needed, you can let them cook for an additional few minutes.
4. Final Touches
Stir and Adjust Seasoning: Once the dumplings are done, give the stew a gentle swirl to mix the dumplings into the broth. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a pinch of salt, pepper, or additional herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Serve: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, making sure to include both the chicken and dumplings in each serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chicken Alternatives: If you don’t have shredded cooked chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken or poach and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs. For a lighter option, consider using turkey or even a plant-based chicken substitute.
- Vegetable Additions: For added nutrition and flavor, you can incorporate vegetables such as peas, carrots, or celery into the stew. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them along with the chicken.
- Dumpling Variations: If you prefer homemade dumplings, you can make them from scratch using flour, baking powder, and buttermilk. Just replace the Bisquick with a homemade dumpling recipe.
- Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free Bisquick and ensure the heavy cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free cream of chicken substitute or make a simple roux with dairy-free milk and vegetable broth.
Conclusion
Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day, a reminder of family gatherings, and a dish that brings joy with every spoonful. This recipe is designed to be both simple and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The creamy, savory stew paired with fluffy dumplings creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will warm your heart and soul. Whether you’re serving it to your family or sharing it with friends, Chicken and Dumplings is sure to become a cherished favorite, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and cherished traditions. Enjoy this timeless classic and savor the comfort it brings to your table!
