Are you looking for a comforting and quick meal? Chicken and dumplings are a classic dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pot meal combines creamy soup, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, making it a favorite for families everywhere. Plus, with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can easily whip up this delightful recipe and satisfy everyone at the table.
What is Chicken and Dumplings?
Chicken and dumplings is a hearty dish that features a rich chicken-flavored broth, succulent pieces of chicken, and soft dumplings. Traditionally, the dumplings are made from scratch and dropped into the simmering broth. However, this recipe simplifies the process by using refrigerated biscuit dough, allowing you to enjoy the essence of homemade chicken and dumplings in a fraction of the time.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to successful cooking. For this recipe, you’ll need the following:
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 3 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken meat
- 2 (10 ounce) cans refrigerated biscuit dough
These ingredients are easy to find and provide the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken and Dumplings
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delicious dish.
Step 1: Gather all ingredients. This ensures you have everything ready and saves you time in the kitchen.
Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together the condensed soup, chicken broth, and shredded chicken. You want to keep an eye on this mixture and stir occasionally until it begins to simmer.
Step 3: Cut each biscuit into quarters. This is a fun and straightforward task. Gently stir the biscuit pieces into the simmering soup. Don’t rush this step; you want to make sure that the biscuits are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer. Keep an eye on it and check the dumplings after 10 minutes. Cook until the biscuits are no longer doughy in the center, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy! Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and dig in. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even easier prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time.
- Customize your Dumplings: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the dumpling dough for extra flavor. A little garlic powder or parsley can make a big difference.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the soup just before adding the dumplings.
- Fresh Vegetables: You can toss in some frozen mixed vegetables or fresh carrots and peas to add nutrition and color.
Variations of Chicken and Dumplings
Don’t be afraid to mix things up with your chicken and dumplings! Here are some ideas:
- Herbed Dumplings: Add your favorite fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to the biscuit dough for a twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for turkey or even use cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken and Dumplings
- Overcooking Dumplings: Keep an eye on the dumplings while they’re simmering. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- Leaving Out Seasoning: Remember to season the broth well. A little salt and pepper can enhance the overall flavor significantly.
- Using Cold Chicken: Make sure your chicken is cooked and at room temperature. This helps it warm through evenly during cooking.
- Not Stirring Gently: When adding dumplings, stir gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips for Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings can be served alongside some crusty bread or a simple garden salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the mixture, as it may thicken in the fridge.
This recipe for chicken and dumplings is not only comforting but also adaptable to suit your tastes. It’s enjoyable for family dinners and gatherings alike. The simplicity and speed are key components that make it so popular.
Nutritional Information of Chicken and Dumplings
It’s always good to be aware of what you’re putting into your body. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of chicken and dumplings:
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 18g (23% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 5g (24% DV)
- Cholesterol: 50mg (17% DV)
- Sodium: 1924mg (84% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 36g (13% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% DV)
- Total Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 22g (43% DV)
- Calcium: 53mg (4% DV)
- Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
- Potassium: 243mg (5% DV)
This dish is certainly a comfort food classic, but it’s also worth noting that it is relatively high in calories and sodium. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
So next time you’re in the mood for something warm and satisfying, remember this quick and easy chicken and dumplings recipe. It’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!