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Easy Chicken and Dumplings: A Taste of Home

There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of simmering chicken and dumplings. For me, it conjures up memories of blustery autumn evenings at my grandmother’s farmhouse. The windows would be fogged with condensation, the air thick with the scent of sage and simmering broth, and a feeling of utter contentment would settle over everyone gathered around the table. It was more than just a meal; it was a warm hug on a cold day.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

1 lb cooked chicken, large chop
1 tablespoon oil
1 medium onion, chopped
6 tablespoons butter
6 tablespoons flour
6 cups chicken stock (or 6 cups water with 8 teaspoons bouillon)
1 (14 ounce) can mixed vegetables (or your favorite fresh, frozen, or canned)
2 cups Jiffy pancake mix (any dry pancake mix)
⅔ cup water

Equipment Needed

Large pot
Mixing bowl
Spoon

Instructions

Begin by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the entire dish.
Add the butter to the pot and let it melt completely. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour. This is the start of your roux, which will thicken the chicken and dumplings. Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture should be smooth and lightly golden.
Gradually pour in the chicken stock, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. If using water and bouillon, add the bouillon to the water first and ensure it’s fully dissolved before adding to the pot.
Once the broth is boiling, add the chopped cooked chicken and the mixed vegetables. Stir well to combine. The vegetables can be fresh, frozen, or canned, depending on your preference and what you have on hand. If using fresh vegetables, you may want to add them a bit earlier in the cooking process to ensure they are tender.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy pancake mix and the water. Mix until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter, as this will result in tough dumplings. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
Using a large spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mix into the simmering chicken stew. Be sure to leave a little space between each dumpling so they have room to expand while cooking.
Simmer the chicken and dumplings uncovered for 10 minutes, then cover the pot and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes. This two-step cooking process helps the dumplings cook evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into a dumpling; it should come out clean.
Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Roux: A good roux is the key to a creamy and flavorful gravy. Make sure to cook the flour and butter mixture long enough to cook out the raw flour taste, but be careful not to burn it.
Dumpling Density: The consistency of your dumpling batter is crucial. If the batter is too thin, the dumplings will be flat and dense. If it’s too thick, they will be heavy and doughy. Aim for a thick, slightly lumpy batter that holds its shape when dropped from a spoon.
Pre-Cooked Chicken Power: This recipe works perfectly with leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken you have on hand, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried thyme, rosemary, or sage to the broth. You could also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf while simmering. Be sure to remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Easy Chicken and Dumplings hot, straight from the pot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and dumplings in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent them from drying out. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as the dumplings can become tough. Freezing is not recommended, as the dumplings can become mushy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	849.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	324 g	38%
Total Fat	36.1 g	55%
Saturated Fat	15.4 g	76%
Cholesterol	155.4 mg	51%
Sodium	1662.1 mg	69%
Total Carbohydrate	80 g	26%
Dietary Fiber	5.4 g	21%
Sugars	9.3 g	37%
Protein	48.2 g	96%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free Dumplings: Substitute the Jiffy pancake mix with a gluten-free pancake mix or a blend of gluten-free flours. You may need to adjust the amount of water to achieve the desired consistency.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a combination of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a little heat.
Creamy Version: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use Bisquick instead of Jiffy pancake mix?
A: Yes, you can substitute Bisquick for Jiffy pancake mix. However, Bisquick may require a slightly different amount of liquid, so adjust the water accordingly until you reach a thick, spoonable batter.

Q: Can I add fresh herbs to the dumplings?
A: Absolutely! Adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to the dumpling batter can add a wonderful flavor boost. Just finely chop the herbs and gently fold them into the batter before dropping the dumplings into the stew.

Q: What if my dumplings are still doughy in the center?
A: If your dumplings are still doughy after the recommended cooking time, continue to simmer them covered for a few more minutes, checking for doneness every couple of minutes.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the onions in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the chicken stock, cooked chicken, and vegetables. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During the last hour, drop the dumpling batter into the slow cooker and cook uncovered until the dumplings are cooked through.

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks. Cook the chicken in the broth until it is cooked through and tender, then remove it from the pot and shred the meat before adding it back to the stew.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting family meal. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own by adding your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun in the kitchen! And if you do, please share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how it turns out. Why not serve this up with a crisp side salad and a loaf of warm bread for dipping? Enjoy!

Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe