Looking for the perfect chicken and dumplings recipe that’s bursting with flavor and ease? Look no further! This is the ultimate Winner Chicken and Dumplings Dinner that combines creamy, rich flavors with tender, fluffy dumplings. It’s Southern soul food at its best, easy enough for a weekday dinner yet so satisfying you’ll want it year-round.
Why This is the Best Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
This recipe is the real deal—packed with bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and a rich, creamy broth. It has everything you crave in comfort food, from succulent chicken pieces to tender, buttermilk-infused dumplings that soak up all the savory goodness. Here’s what makes it unbeatable:
- Flavorful Homemade Broth: A thick, velvety broth infused with vegetables and rich chicken stock, creating the ultimate base for our dish.
- Easy Prep with Rotisserie Chicken: For quick preparation, this recipe uses rotisserie chicken, making it an ideal weeknight option.
- Perfect Buttermilk Dumplings: Fluffy, tangy, and rich, these dumplings rise to perfection and absorb all that delicious broth.
Winner Chicken and Dumplings Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken stock (or broth)
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme and parsley for garnish
For the Buttermilk Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Broth Base
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook off any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and milk, creating a thick, creamy broth.
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Allow the broth to simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the Rotisserie Chicken
For a quicker prep, use shredded rotisserie chicken. Simply add the chicken to the pot, letting it soak up the flavorful broth. This step saves you time while still delivering rich, slow-cooked taste. Let the mixture simmer on low heat while you prepare the dumplings.
3. Prepare the Buttermilk Dumplings
The dumplings are a game-changer in this dish. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir in the buttermilk and melted butter until you have a sticky, doughy consistency. Buttermilk adds a slight tanginess, making the dumplings exceptionally tender and flavorful.
4. Add the Dumplings to the Broth
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture directly into the simmering broth. The dumplings will puff up as they cook, absorbing the savory broth for an even richer taste. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes until they are fluffy and fully cooked.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once the dumplings are cooked through, your dish is ready to serve! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of thyme for an aromatic finish. Serve hot and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.
Pro Tips for Perfect Winner Chicken and Dumplings Dinner
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley enhance the broth’s flavor and give it that “homemade” touch.
- Avoid Overmixing the Dumpling Dough: Overmixing can make the dumplings dense. Stir just until combined for the best texture.
- Customize Your Veggies: While classic recipes call for onion, carrot, and celery, feel free to add other favorites like peas or corn.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker broth, let it simmer a bit longer, or add a little more flour when making the base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken and dumplings recipe is everything you need on a cozy night or whenever you crave Southern-style comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The fluffy dumplings, creamy broth, and juicy chicken make every bite deliciously satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade chicken instead of rotisserie? Yes, absolutely! If you prefer, you can cook your own chicken by boiling or roasting and then shredding it for the recipe.
What if I don’t have buttermilk for the dumplings? No problem—make your own buttermilk by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, chicken and dumplings can be frozen. However, the texture of the dumplings may change slightly after reheating. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to make the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour for both the broth and the dumplings, and check that your chicken stock is gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings? This dish is filling on its own, but you could serve it with a light side salad or steamed green vegetables to add a fresh contrast.
Try This Winner Chicken and Dumplings Dinner Tonight
This Winner Chicken and Dumplings Dinner is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Once you try this recipe, it’s hard to go back to any other version. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy the best chicken and dumplings dinner you’ll ever make!
