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This Quick Chicken and Dumplings recipe brings classic comfort food to your weeknight table without the hours in the kitchen. With tender shredded chicken, soft dumplings made from refrigerated dough or ravioli, and a creamy broth, it delivers that warm, homestyle flavor you crave. It’s a perfect dish when you want hearty and satisfying without sacrificing time.
I first made this during a hectic week and was amazed at how quickly comfort food came together. Now it’s a regular request when everyone needs a little extra cozy on the table.
Ingredients
- Shredded Cooked Chicken: for protein and heartiness choose rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough or Cheese Ravioli: acts as quick dumplings soaking up the broth while remaining soft
- Chicken Broth: is the flavorful base use low-sodium to control saltiness
- Heavy Cream: provides the rich and velvety texture that makes the broth indulgent
- Butter: adds depth and silkiness to the soup base
- Garlic and Onion Powder: are pantry staples that infuse savory flavor without extra chopping
- Salt and Black Pepper: to season and elevate all the flavors
- Fresh Parsley: used optional for a bright, fresh finish that lifts the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
- Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in garlic and onion powder allowing them to bloom in the butter for about 30 seconds to deepen the flavors.
- Step 2: Add Broth and Simmer
- Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in shredded chicken and let it warm through for five to seven minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken heats evenly.
- Step 3: Add the Dumplings
- If using biscuit dough, cut it into quarters before adding. Whether biscuit dough pieces or cheese ravioli, add them directly to the pot. Let simmer uncovered for eight to ten minutes until they puff up and cook fully. Be gentle when stirring to keep dumplings intact.
- Step 4: Make It Creamy
- Turn the heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for two to three minutes until the broth thickens to a velvety consistency that envelops the dumplings and chicken.
- Step 5: Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve it warm for a warming meal everyone will enjoy.
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One of my favorite parts is the dumplings soaking up that creamy broth while staying light and fluffy. It reminds me of chilly evenings when my family would gather around the kitchen table for this meal, instantly making the house feel like home.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container once the soup has cooled fully. Keep refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating gently warm on the stovetop stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or cream helps loosen the sauce if it thickens in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results and reheat slowly on the stove to preserve texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a seasonal twist that works just as well
- Replace refrigerated biscuit dough with canned crescent rolls cut into pieces or homemade drop dumplings to customize texture
- Skip heavy cream and use whole milk for a lighter soup but expect a thinner broth
- Add fresh or frozen peas, diced carrots, or celery during the simmer for extra veggies and color
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a simple side salad or steamed greens to cut through the richness
- A slice of crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls work great for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth
- Top with cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for extra flavor dimension
Cultural Context
Chicken and dumplings have deep roots in Southern cooking, a dish born out of humble ingredients that provide warmth and nourishment. This quicker version honors that tradition while suiting modern, busy lifestyles. It’s a celebrated classic that brings families together around the table, passing on comfort across generations.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds tenderness and flavor while saving time during preparation.
- → What can replace biscuit dough for dumplings?
Try cheese ravioli, canned crescent roll pieces, or homemade drop dumplings for a quick alternative.
- → How do I prevent dumplings from breaking apart?
Stir gently with a silicone spatula and avoid excessive stirring after adding the dumplings to keep them intact.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead?
Yes. Prepare the broth and chicken base in advance, then add dumplings just before serving for best texture.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly with extra broth to restore creaminess.
- → Can vegetables be added to the dish?
Diced carrots, peas, or celery work well and can be added to the broth to simmer until tender.