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Creamy Chicken and Dumpling 1

Creamy Chicken and Dumpling: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe


  • Author: Elyse
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large pot 1x

Description

Few dishes bring the same level of warmth and nostalgia as creamy chicken and dumplings. This classic comfort food is a staple in many homes, combining tender chicken, a rich, creamy broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to enjoy with your family or a dish that reminds you of home-cooked goodness, this easy creamy chicken and dumplings recipe is a must-try.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Broth:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the Dumplings:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Broth

  1. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the vegetables and stir to coat.
  2. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  4. Add heavy cream, shredded chicken, salt, black pepper, and thyme.
  5. Stir well and let the broth thicken over low heat while preparing the dumplings.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Slowly stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. (Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.)

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

  1. Using a spoon, drop small scoops of dumpling dough into the simmering broth.
  2. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 15 minutes without stirring.
  3. The dumplings will expand and become light and fluffy as they absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Check for Doneness & Serve

  1. To check if the dumplings are cooked, insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re done!
  2. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy this rich, creamy comfort food!

Notes

Dairy-Free Version: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use olive oil instead of butter.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend for both dumplings and broth thickener.
Shortcut: Use store-bought biscuit dough for quicker dumplings.
Storage & Reheating: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: chef's choice
  • Method: Main Course, Dinner
  • Cuisine: Southern, American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: ~400
  • Fat: ~40g
  • Carbohydrates: ~35g
  • Protein: ~25g