Name: Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 3/4 cup whole milk; 4 tbsp butter; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

Growing up, chicken and dumplings was the ultimate comfort food in my family. I remember the cozy aroma filling the kitchen as the broth simmered, thick with shredded chicken and studded with soft, fluffy dumplings. It wasn’t just food—it was warmth in a bowl. Now, I’ve taken that nostalgic favorite and given it a fresh twist with colorful, tender vegetables for a complete, heartwarming meal.

This version of chicken and dumplings is not only rich and flavorful, but it’s also a satisfying one-pot dish that comes together surprisingly quickly. It’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you need a soul-soothing dinner. The dumplings are light and pillowy, floating in a well-seasoned broth packed with juicy chicken, carrots, and celery. One spoonful, and you’ll see why this dish remains a classic.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

This dish is everything you want in a hearty, comforting meal. The broth is savory and smooth, the chicken tender, and the dumplings melt in your mouth. The addition of vegetables not only brings extra flavor and color, but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. It’s made in one pot, so cleanup is minimal. And best of all? It tastes like it took hours to cook, but it can be ready in under an hour.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness, or chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, too—just shred and stir it in during the final steps. The key is to simmer the meat gently so it stays juicy and flavorful.

Options for Substitutions

Chicken: Use turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Vegetables: Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for a twist.
Broth: Homemade stock adds depth, but store-bought low-sodium broth works perfectly.
Flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used for the dumplings.
Milk: Substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version (unsweetened almond or oat milk works best).

Ingredients for this Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

Chicken thighs or breasts: These provide the protein and main flavor for the broth. Thighs give a richer texture, while breasts are leaner.
All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the broth slightly and as the base for the dumplings.
Baking powder: Essential for creating fluffy dumplings that rise perfectly.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and softness to the dumplings.
Butter: Adds richness to the dumpling dough and sautéed vegetables.
Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and color to the dish.
Celery: Provides a classic aromatic base and subtle crunch.
Yellow onion: Infuses the broth with deep savory flavor.
Garlic: Boosts the aromatic and savory depth.
Chicken broth: The base of the soup, bringing all the ingredients together.
Fresh parsley: A fresh, herbal finishing touch for both flavor and garnish.
Salt and black pepper: To season every component from the broth to the dumplings.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they begin to soften, about 5–7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth

Stir in the chicken pieces and pour in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the soup simmers, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Add milk and melted butter, then mix until just combined. The dough should be thick and sticky, but not overly wet.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.

Step 5: Drop the Dumplings In

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering soup. Keep them evenly spaced, as they will puff up. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes—resist the urge to lift the lid during this time, as the steam is key to perfect dumplings.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the dumplings are cooked through (they’ll be firm and fluffy), gently stir the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve hot.

How Long to Prepare the Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

Preparing this cozy meal doesn’t take as long as you might expect. From start to finish, you can have it on the table in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: Chopping the vegetables, preparing the dumpling dough, and getting everything ready takes about 15–20 minutes. If you’re using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, this step goes even faster.

Cook Time: The soup needs around 20 minutes to simmer before the dumplings are added. Once the dumplings are in, they’ll need 15 more minutes to cook through, for a total of about 35 minutes of cook time.

Tips for Perfect Chicken And Dumplings

Don’t overmix the dumpling dough; stir just until combined to avoid dense dumplings.
Use a gentle simmer for cooking the soup—boiling hard can toughen the chicken and break up the dumplings.
Keep the pot covered while dumplings cook to trap steam and ensure they rise properly.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten the flavor of the final dish.
Taste and adjust seasoning after the dumplings cook to balance the flavors.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Lifting the lid while dumplings cook: This releases steam and prevents dumplings from rising.
Overcrowding the pot: Drop dumplings with enough space so they don’t stick together.
Overcooking the vegetables early: They’ll continue cooking as the soup simmers.
Using too much flour in the dumpling dough: Makes them dry and heavy.
Skipping seasoning: Season in layers—vegetables, broth, and after adding dumplings.

What to Serve With Chicken And Dumplings?

1. Buttermilk Biscuits

Soft and buttery, perfect for soaking up extra broth.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds brightness to the rich soup.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the savory dumplings.

4. Cranberry Sauce

The sweet-tart flavor is a nice contrast to the savory profile of the dish.

5. Applesauce or Sautéed Apples

A sweet, rustic side that complements the hearty soup.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dumplings may absorb more broth over time, so the soup may thicken.

Freezer: While you can freeze it, the dumplings may change texture slightly after thawing. Freeze in individual portions and reheat gently.

Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

Estimated Nutrition

Calories: ~380 per serving
Protein: 27g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 75mg

(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

They will be firm to the touch and no longer doughy in the center. Cutting one open should reveal a fluffy, cooked-through interior.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and chicken ahead. Add fresh dumplings just before serving.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely. Just add them directly to the pot—no need to thaw.

Are the dumplings supposed to be soft or chewy?

They should be soft and fluffy, not chewy or dense. Avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings with Vegetables is the kind of meal that wraps you in comfort from the very first bite. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or enjoying leftovers the next day. Whether you’re new to making dumplings or it’s a beloved favorite, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between old-fashioned goodness and modern ease. One pot, lots of flavor, and smiles around the table guaranteed.