Freezer Meals

Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, boneless; 2 medium onions, chopped; 3 medium carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 4 cups (1L) chicken broth; 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 2 tsp (10g) baking powder; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter; 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme

By Jonah Penhallow · June 19, 2026 · Freezer Meals

Prep30 min

Cook40 min

Total70 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I had Chicken And Dumplings - it was a cold winter evening, and my grandmother had made a big pot of it for our family dinner. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth was love at first bite. Over the years, I've perfected my own recipe for Chicken And Dumplings, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing any of its flavor or texture. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables, making it a budget-friendly option for families.

One of the things that sets this recipe apart from others is the use of a homemade broth, made with chicken bones and vegetables. This gives the dish a rich and depth of flavor that's hard to replicate with store-bought broth. Additionally, the dumplings are made with a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and butter, which gives them a light and fluffy texture.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of chicken thighs and breasts, which provides a good balance of flavor and texture. We'll also be adding some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery, which add a depth of flavor to the broth. And of course, no Chicken And Dumplings would be complete without some fresh herbs like parsley and thyme.

Whether you're looking for a comforting meal to warm up on a cold winter evening, or a delicious and easy meal prep option, this Chicken And Dumplings recipe is sure to become a favorite. So let's get started and make a big pot of it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing any of its flavor or texture.
It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables, making it a budget-friendly option for families.
The homemade broth gives the dish a rich and depth of flavor that's hard to replicate with store-bought broth.
The dumplings are made with a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and butter, which gives them a light and fluffy texture.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for beginners.
It's a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for cold winter evenings or special occasions.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Chicken And Dumplings recipe is in the layering of flavors and textures. By using a combination of chicken bones and vegetables to make the broth, we're able to create a rich and depth of flavor that's hard to replicate with store-bought broth. The dumplings, made with a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and butter, add a light and fluffy texture to the dish.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a gentle heat to cook the chicken and dumplings. By cooking the chicken at a low temperature, we're able to prevent it from becoming tough and dry, while the dumplings cook slowly and absorb all the flavors of the broth.

The resting time after cooking is also crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the dumplings to absorb all the juices. This makes the dish even more delicious and comforting, and it's perfect for reheating and serving at a later time.

Overall, the combination of homemade broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings makes this Chicken And Dumplings recipe a true comfort food classic. It's a dish that's sure to become a favorite, and it's perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Chicken And Dumplings, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of chicken thighs and breasts, which provides a good balance of flavor and texture. We'll also be adding some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery, which add a depth of flavor to the broth. And of course, no Chicken And Dumplings would be complete without some fresh herbs like parsley and thyme.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose fresh and high-quality produce, as this will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Also, try to use organic chicken and vegetables whenever possible, as this will ensure that your dish is not only delicious but also healthy and sustainable.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessChicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe, as they're tender and flavorful. Be sure to choose boneless thighs to make the dish easier to cook and serve.
1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, bonelessChicken breasts add a leaner and more tender texture to the dish. Be sure to choose boneless breasts to make the dish easier to cook and serve.
2 medium onions, choppedOnions add a depth of flavor to the broth and are a key ingredient in this recipe. Be sure to choose fresh and high-quality onions for the best flavor.
3 medium carrots, choppedCarrots add a pop of color and flavor to the dish. Be sure to choose fresh and high-quality carrots for the best flavor.
2 stalks celery, choppedCelery adds a fresh and crunchy texture to the dish. Be sure to choose fresh and high-quality celery for the best flavor.
4 cups (1L) chicken brothHomemade chicken broth is a key ingredient in this recipe, as it adds a rich and depth of flavor to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality broth or make your own from scratch.
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is a key ingredient in the dumplings, as it provides structure and texture. Be sure to choose a high-quality flour for the best results.
2 tsp (10g) baking powderBaking powder helps the dumplings to rise and gives them a light and fluffy texture. Be sure to choose a high-quality baking powder for the best results.
1 tsp (5g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the dish and helps to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Be sure to choose a high-quality salt for the best results.
1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butterButter adds a rich and creamy texture to the dumplings. Be sure to choose a high-quality butter for the best results.
2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish. Be sure to choose fresh and high-quality parsley for the best flavor.
1 tsp (5g) dried thymeDried thyme adds a savory and slightly bitter flavor to the dish. Be sure to choose a high-quality thyme for the best results.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knife Cutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerColander or strainer

How to Make Chicken And Dumplings

1
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
2
Add the chicken thighs and breasts to the pot, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3
Add the chicken broth to the pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broth has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4
While the broth is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the chopped parsley and dried thyme, and stir to combine.
5
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the bowl, and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
6
Gradually add the chicken broth to the bowl, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
7
Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces, and shape each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
8
Add the chicken back to the pot, and arrange the dumplings on top of the chicken. Cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the dumplings are tender and fluffy.
9
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the breast.
10
Remove the pot from the heat, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley and thyme if desired.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh vegetables and herbs, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Don't overmix the dumpling dough, as this can make the dumplings tough and dense.
Use a gentle heat when cooking the chicken and dumplings, as this will help to prevent the chicken from becoming tough and the dumplings from becoming mushy.
Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, as this will allow the flavors to meld together and the dumplings to absorb all the juices.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add unique flavors to the dish.
Consider making a double batch of the recipe and freezing it for later use.
Use a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, to add depth and complexity to the broth.
Don't be afraid to get creative with the recipe and add your own favorite ingredients or spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken, which can make it tough and dry.
Not using enough liquid in the pot, which can result in a dry and flavorless dish.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can make the dumplings fall apart and the chicken become tough.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can result in a dish that lacks flavor and texture.
Not cooking the dumplings long enough, which can make them raw and doughy in the center.
Not using a gentle heat when cooking the chicken and dumplings, which can make the chicken tough and the dumplings mushy.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced ham or bacon to the pot for a smoky and savory flavor.
Use different types of vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to add unique flavors and textures.
Add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, to the dumplings for an extra burst of flavor.
Use different types of herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to add unique flavors to the dish.
Add some diced potatoes or other root vegetables to the pot for a hearty and filling meal.
Use a variety of spices, such as paprika or cumin, to add unique flavors to the dish.
Consider making a vegetarian version of the recipe by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh.

What to Serve With Chicken And Dumplings

Chicken And Dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for serving with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a filling and satisfying meal. You could also serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a lighter and healthier option.

Some other ideas for serving Chicken And Dumplings include serving it with some roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, or serving it with a side of cornbread or biscuits. You could also consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.

Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoesServe with a side salad or steamed vegetablesServe with roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sproutsServe with cornbread or biscuitsServe with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Chicken And Dumplings is a great dish for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing any of its flavor or texture. To store the dish, let it cool completely and then refrigerate or freeze it.

To reheat the dish, simply microwave it or heat it up on the stovetop. You could also consider reheating it in the oven, which will help to crisp up the dumplings and add a golden brown color to the dish.

When reheating the dish, be sure to use a gentle heat and stir it occasionally to prevent the dumplings from becoming mushy or the chicken from becoming tough. You could also consider adding some extra broth or water to the dish if it becomes too thick or dry.

Chicken And Dumplings will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze the dish, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to label the container or bag with the date and the contents, and then store it in the freezer until you're ready to reheat it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for Chicken And Dumplings?

Chicken thighs and breasts are both great options for Chicken And Dumplings, as they're tender and flavorful. Be sure to choose boneless chicken to make the dish easier to cook and serve.

Can I use store-bought broth instead of homemade?

While store-bought broth can be convenient, homemade broth is always the best option for Chicken And Dumplings. It adds a rich and depth of flavor to the dish that's hard to replicate with store-bought broth.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dumplings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to cook them. Simply cook them according to the recipe instructions when you're ready to serve.

What's the best way to reheat Chicken And Dumplings?

The best way to reheat Chicken And Dumplings is to use a gentle heat and stir it occasionally to prevent the dumplings from becoming mushy or the chicken from becoming tough. You could also consider adding some extra broth or water to the dish if it becomes too thick or dry.

Can I freeze Chicken And Dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken And Dumplings for up to 2-3 months. Simply let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to label the container or bag with the date and the contents, and then store it in the freezer until you're ready to reheat it.

How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming mushy?

To prevent the dumplings from becoming mushy, be sure to use a gentle heat when cooking them and stir them occasionally. You could also consider adding some extra flour or cornstarch to the dumpling mixture to help them hold their shape.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Chicken And Dumplings?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Chicken And Dumplings by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Simply cook the tofu or tempeh according to the recipe instructions and serve it with the dumplings and broth.

The Full Recipe

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