Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Nothing soothes on a hectic weeknight like a pot of easy chicken and dumplings bubbling on the stove and filling the kitchen with that unmistakable comfort-food aroma. This recipe delivers soul-warming flavor using a handful of basic staples and simple dumplings that are ready in no time. Every spoonful brings back memories of gathering around the table after long days and sharing seconds with family.

I remember the first time I made this for my friends after a late autumn hike and we all agreed it tasted like something our grandmothers would have cooked. Now it is my go to when I need something both nostalgic and practical.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken or turkey chopped: Use freshly cooked or rotisserie for best flavor
• Chopped celery: Adds a subtle aromatic base and crunch select firm stalks with crisp leaves
• Cream of chicken soup: Creates a creamy texture opt for low sodium if preferred
• Canned chicken broth: Delivers savory depth choose a quality brand for richer taste
• Water: Balances the soup and makes the broth light
• Self rising flour: Ensures the dumplings are tender check the date for freshness
• Shortening: Gives dumplings their signature softness use a clean white variety
• Boiling water: Brings the dough together and creates steam for fluffy dumplings
• Salt and pepper: Season the soup to your liking use freshly cracked pepper for a bit of spark

Instructions

Make the Broth:

In a large soup pot combine the chopped chicken celery cream of chicken soup chicken broth and water. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium high heat then cover and let it simmer so the flavors settle while you prepare the dumplings.

Prepare the Dumpling Dough:

In a separate large mixing bowl add the self rising flour. Work the shortening into the flour using a fork or a pastry blender until you have a crumbly texture this helps the dumplings stay soft. Gradually pour in the boiling water starting with half a cup and stirring until the dough just comes together and forms a smooth ball. Add only as much water as needed to avoid sticky dough.

Roll and Cut Dumplings:

Lightly flour your counter and turn out the dough. Roll to an even thickness around one eighth of an inch. Cut into thick strips then crosswise into squares about the size of a big postage stamp. Dust lightly to prevent sticking.

Add Dumplings to Broth:

Remove the pot lid and bring your broth up to a rolling boil. Add the dumpling squares a few at a time sliding them gently into the broth so the heat stays up. Cover the pot briefly after each batch to keep it piping hot. Pause about thirty seconds between additions to avoid lowering the temperature and ensure even cooking.

Simmer and Finish:

Once all the dumplings are added lower the heat and let everything simmer uncovered for twenty minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but do so gently so you do not break the dumplings. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. The broth will become silky as the dumplings cook.

Optional Drop Dumplings:

If you prefer a rustic feel skip the rolling. Pinch off marble sized pieces of dough and drop them directly into the bubbling broth. Let them simmer as directed until plump and cooked through.

Serve:

Ladle the stew into warm bowls and enjoy its cozy goodness right away.

My favorite ingredient is the homemade dumplings. Nothing sparks joy like forming and dropping them one by one into the bubbling pot. I still think of my grandmother’s hands guiding mine when I was just learning how to gently shape dough so it would puff up soft and promising.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and enjoy them within three days. The broth will thicken as it chills so add a splash of water or broth before reheating. Dumplings may absorb some broth even more for next day comfort.

Ingredient Substitutions

No cooked chicken on hand You can use leftover turkey or even rotisserie chicken for richer depth. If you prefer a different flavor try using cream of mushroom or celery soup in place of chicken soup. For dairy free try a plant based cream soup and a vegan shortening.

Serving Suggestions

Serve piping hot garnished with cracked black pepper and fresh parsley. A crisp green salad or buttery green beans round out the meal nicely. I love balancing the creamy richness with something bright like pickled okra or tomatoes.

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken and dumplings is a beloved dish from Southern American kitchens born from resourceful cooks seeking comfort in simple ingredients. While each family has their own way mine always made the brothy version with rolled dumplings for stretch and satisfaction. This dish is often a centerpiece during cold weather and Sunday dinners alike.

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring use a handful of fresh herbs such as dill or parsley. During fall add diced carrots or a pinch of dried sage to the broth. For winter comfort stir in a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.

Success Stories

My neighbor tried this recipe using turkey after Thanksgiving and said it was the highlight of her leftovers. She now looks forward to extra turkey every holiday.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze let the soup cool completely then portion into airtight freezer containers. When ready to serve thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove with extra broth or water to revive the dumplings.

Nothing beats the quiet moment of ladling this stew into bowls and watching the steam rise. It is the sort of meal that asks everyone to slow down savor and just be together.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can turkey be used instead of chicken?

Yes, cooked turkey can be substituted for chicken, making use of leftovers and adding a rich flavor.

→ How do I make dumplings fluffier?

Ensure you use self-rising flour and avoid overworking the dough for lighter, fluffier dumplings.

→ What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can use a homemade white sauce or substitute with cream of mushroom or celery soup for similar texture.

→ Is rolling out dumplings necessary?

No, you can pinch and drop pieces of dough directly into the simmering broth for a rustic touch.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Try adding fresh herbs, ground pepper, or diced carrots along with the celery to boost the broth's taste.