There is nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of tender chicken nestled in rich broth with fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. This Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe hits every note perfectly, blending simple pantry staples into a heartwarming classic that feels like a hug in a bowl. From the aromatic sautéed vegetables to the creamy, savory soup base and pillowy dumplings, every bite invites a moment of cozy satisfaction you’ll want to share again and again.

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a laundry list of fancy ingredients to make this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s building a deep flavor, adding texture, or providing a lovely color contrast that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Butter (6 tablespoons): The golden richness that starts off the soup and adds luscious depth.
Diced yellow onion (1 cup): Sweet and aromatic, it forms the flavorful base.
Matchstick carrots (1 cup): Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
Diced celery (1 cup): Offers a fresh crunch and balances the sweetness.
Minced garlic (4 cloves): Provides a fragrant punch that brightens the entire dish.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons + 2 cups): Essential for thickening the soup and making dumplings.
Evaporated milk (12 oz can): Or half and half for creamy, silky texture in the broth.
Chicken stock (32 oz quart): The savory heartbeat that pulls everything together.
Shredded cooked chicken (4 cups): Tender and hearty protein that soaks up all the comforting flavors.
Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon) or dried thyme (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds an earthy herbal note.
Freshly cracked black pepper (2 teaspoons + 1 teaspoon): For a little warmth and complexity.
Salt (to taste): The key to balancing and enhancing every ingredient.
Baking powder (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon): Gives your dumplings their perfect fluffy lift.
Whole milk (3/4 cup): Moistens the dough for tender dumplings.
Melted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps bind the dumplings together.

How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavorful Soup Base

Start by melting 6 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. The butter not only prevents sticking but also starts the flavor development with a rich, nutty aroma. Toss in your diced yellow onion, matchstick carrots, and diced celery, cooking them gently until softened and fragrant – about 5 to 7 minutes. This trio, known as the holy trinity of many soups, lays down a natural sweetness and complexity that elevates every spoonful.

Step 2: Layer in the Aromatics and Thickener

Next, stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and let it cook for a quick minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because burnt garlic can turn bitter, so keep an eye on it! Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour, constantly stirring to coat the softened veggies evenly. This creates a roux that thickens the soup, giving it that silky body we all adore.

Step 3: Bring It All Together with Liquids and Chicken

Slowly pour in the evaporated milk and chicken stock while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then add 4 cups of shredded cooked chicken, fresh thyme, black pepper, and salt to your taste. Let everything simmer so flavors meld, keeping your kitchen filled with the most inviting fragrance imaginable.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the soup simmers, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, black pepper, salt, and fresh or dried thyme in a bowl. Create a well in the center and pour in the whole milk and melted butter. Stir gently until a soft dough forms — do not overmix, as that will toughen your dumplings!

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings in the Simmering Soup

Scoop spoonfuls of dough and drop them carefully into the simmering chicken soup. Press each dumpling lightly to ensure it’s submerged, then cover the pot. Let the dumplings steam and cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid, so they puff up and become irresistibly tender. Once done, test a dumpling for doneness — it should be fluffy and fully cooked inside.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of fresh thyme leaves over each bowl to bring a fresh, herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. A dash of cracked black pepper finishes it off with a touch of warmth that makes every bite pop.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, pair it with light sides like a simple green salad with vinaigrette to add a crisp, refreshing element, or some crusty bread to sop up every last drop of the luscious broth. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts also make lovely, colorful complements.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe in individual soup crocks with a dollop of fresh herbs on top. Alternatively, ladle it over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a different texture twist. You could even turn it into a comforting pot pie by placing the dumplings and chicken mixture under a flaky pastry crust for an impressive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, allow the Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Portion the soup and dumplings into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. For best texture, it’s ideal to freeze the soup and dumplings separately if possible, but freezing altogether works as well if needed.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Add a splash of chicken stock or milk if the soup appears too thick.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is one of the easiest ways to prepare this dish without extra cooking time. Just shred the chicken and add it directly during the simmering step.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk in the recipe?

If you don’t have evaporated milk, half and half or whole milk works just fine. Evaporated milk adds a creaminess and slight caramelized flavor, but regular milk keeps the dish deliciously rich.

How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?

Dumplings should puff up and feel soft and tender when lightly pressed. You can cut one open to check; the inside should be cooked through without any raw dough.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

While traditionally made with chicken, you can use vegetable stock and omit the chicken to create a vegetarian version. Add mushrooms or chickpeas for extra texture and protein.

Why do my dumplings sometimes turn out tough?

Overmixing the dough develops the gluten too much, leading to tough dumplings. Mix gently until just combined and avoid pressing the dumplings too hard when dropping them into the soup.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about a bowl of Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe that feels like a gateway back to simpler, cozier days. The melding of creamy broth, tender chicken, and those dreamy dumplings makes it a timeless comfort food you’ll want on busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and create your own warm memories around the table.