Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is one of those recipes that instantly feels like a warm hug, and I’m so grateful you’re here to share it with me. Truly, thank you for trusting me with a dish that carries so much comfort and nostalgia. Right after the very first bite, Homemade Chicken and Dumplings reminds you why simple, from-scratch cooking never goes out of style. This is cozy food at its finest—humble ingredients, rich flavor, and that unmistakable “home” feeling. If you love recipes like this, don’t forget to subscribe so you can receive comforting classics like this one straight to your inbox.
Overview of This Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
This recipe is all about slowing down and savoring the process. We simmer tender chicken in a savory broth, build layers of flavor with simple vegetables and herbs, and finish it all with soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up every bit of that goodness. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy—just honest, soul-warming food.
Reasons You’ll Love Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
There are so many reasons this dish has stood the test of time. It’s affordable, filling, and deeply satisfying. It’s also incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax.
What Does Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Taste Like?
Imagine a rich, savory broth with tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth. The dumplings are soft and fluffy, slightly chewy in the center, and perfectly seasoned. Every spoonful is creamy, comforting, and anything but boring!!
Benefits of Making Chicken and Dumplings at Home
Making this recipe from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, the salt, and the richness. It’s nourishing, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers the next day (if there are any!). The smell alone when this is simmering on the stove is incredible!!
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt (for dumplings)
- 3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
You can easily customize this recipe. Add peas or corn for extra color, or swap thyme for poultry seasoning. If you prefer, rotisserie chicken can be used to save time—just add it toward the end. Dairy-free milk works too, though the broth will be slightly less creamy.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the milk and reduce heat to low.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Gradually add milk until a thick dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering broth.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Gently stir and serve hot.
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or warm crusty bread. Sometimes, I’ll add a side of applesauce for a touch of sweetness—don’t knock it till you try it!
Tips for the Best Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
- Keep the broth at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.
- Don’t overmix the dumpling dough; tender dumplings love a light hand.
- Resist the urge to peek while the dumplings cook—steam is key!
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed. Dumplings will absorb liquid over time, but the flavor only gets better.
General Information
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort dish with roots in Southern and Midwestern cooking. Every family seems to have their own version, and that’s part of the magic—it’s endlessly adaptable and deeply personal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze the soup without the dumplings and add fresh ones when reheating.
Why are my dumplings dense?
Dense dumplings usually come from overmixing or cooking at too high a temperature.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Conclusion
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings is the kind of recipe that brings people together. It’s simple, comforting, and made with love—exactly the kind of meal we all need a little more of. Once you try it, I promise it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.