Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

If you’re in the mood for classic comfort food that tastes like a warm hug, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is the answer! With tender chicken, pillow-soft dumplings, and a creamy, soul-soothing broth, this one-pot wonder is a favorite in my kitchen—especially when the weather calls for something cozy and satisfying.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is pure nostalgia—it’s hearty, warming, and the very definition of home-cooked goodness.
• One-Pot Magic: Everything comes together in a single pot, which means less mess and easy cleanup on even your busiest weeknights.
• Customizable Dumplings: You can keep it super simple with canned biscuits or whip up fluffy, homemade dumplings if you’re feeling extra inspired.
• Satisfies the Whole Family: Packed with vegetables, protein, and plenty of flavor, this meal never fails to impress both kids and grown-ups alike!

Ingredients & Substitutions

All the everyday staples in this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe come together to create that classic, mouthwatering flavor. Each ingredient brings something special—whether it’s the savory broth, the tender chicken, or those irresistible dumplings, every bite feels like a little celebration!

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are juicy and flavorful, but breasts work beautifully if you prefer leaner meat.
• Onion, celery, carrots: These aromatic veggies form the classic “soup base” and build layers of depth in the broth.
• Garlic: Adds a subtle punch and warmth; freshly minced is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
• Chicken broth: Use low-sodium for more control over saltiness—or swap in homemade stock for even richer flavor.
• Poultry and Italian seasoning: These blends infuse the soup with herby, savory notes—feel free to toss in extra thyme or rosemary if you love those flavors.
• Refrigerated canned biscuits: The shortcut star of the show for perfectly fluffy dumplings, or make your own for that scratch-made touch.
• Frozen peas: For a pop of color and sweetness; fresh work too, just be sure to add them at the end so they stay bright green.
• Heavy cream: This creates the luscious and creamy broth you’ll want to savor by the spoonful—milk or half-and-half can be swapped, but heavy cream is divine.
• Cornstarch & water: Optional but helpful if you like your soup extra thick and hearty.
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro: Toss on top for fresh, herby flavor and a burst of color just before serving.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by pressing the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot (or Dutch oven) and warming a bit of oil. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes—or until softened and aromatic. This base sets the whole stage for a flavorful soup!

Step 2: Build Flavor with Veggies and Chicken

Next, add in your celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Stir them gently for a couple of minutes before tossing in your diced chicken. Let everything cook together until the chicken turns opaque—about 5 minutes—to lock in savory depth from the get-go.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in black pepper, poultry seasoning, salt, and Italian seasoning. This is when your kitchen starts to smell incredible as the aromatic broth comes together!

Step 4: Add the Dumplings

Cut each biscuit (or your homemade dough) into 8 bite-sized pieces, then gently drop them into the pot. The dumplings will puff up and float to the top, soaking up all those irresistible flavors while they cook.

Step 5: Pressure Cook and Release

Cancel the sauté function, lock on the lid, and select pressure cook on high for 7 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before venting, unlocking, and removing the lid—get ready for major cozy vibes as the steam escapes!

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Peas

Stir in the frozen peas and pour in the heavy cream. If you like your Chicken and Dumplings Recipe on the thicker side, mix together the cornstarch and cold water, then drizzle it in while stirring. Finish with chopped parsley or cilantro for an inviting pop of freshness!

How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t skip the final sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro! These greens add a fresh lift to the creamy soup and are a feast for the eyes. If you’re feeling extra, a few cracks of black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil make it extra special.

Side Dishes

This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it truly shines alongside simple sides—a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a wedge of warm, buttery cornbread add a delightful balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming touch, ladle soup into wide, shallow bowls and top with extra-herby garnish. Hosting guests? Serve in individual mini cocottes or ramekins so everyone gets their own bubbling serving—guaranteed smiles all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe keep beautifully! Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. It will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezing

While you can freeze the soup, be aware that the texture of the dumplings may change slightly. For best results, freeze just the chicken soup base and add fresh dumplings when reheating!

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring now and then. If the broth has thickened too much, simply add a splash of extra broth or milk to bring it back to the perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving something hearty, affordable, and undeniably delicious, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is calling your name! It’s a true crowd-pleaser and the kind of meal that brings everyone back for seconds. Give it a try soon—you just might discover your new favorite cozy-night tradition.

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