Name: Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breast, cooked and shredded 3 carrots, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 1 yellow onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 6 cups chicken broth 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 cup milk or buttermilk; 1.5 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

When you’re craving cozy, homemade comfort in a bowl, nothing satisfies quite like Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables. This dish brings together tender shredded chicken, pillowy dumplings, and a medley of vibrant vegetables swimming in a flavorful, savory broth. It’s one of those feel-good meals that warms you from the inside out.

Whether you’re gathering the family for Sunday dinner or simply looking to recreate a nostalgic Southern classic, this recipe is an easy win. Made with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect blend of heartiness and wholesomeness. And the best part? It’s just as satisfying the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy broth, soft dumplings, and tender chicken make this dish the definition of cozy.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this meal.
One-Pot Meal: Everything simmers together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Versatile: Add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the most flavorful and stress-free Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables, a few essential kitchen tools will help:

Large Dutch Oven or Stockpot: This is where the magic happens. Its even heat distribution ensures everything cooks perfectly.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables and prepping herbs efficiently.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to prep all your veggies.
Mixing Bowl: For stirring together the dumpling dough.
Cookie Scoop or Two Spoons: To portion the dumplings evenly.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For handling chicken and veggies without breaking the dumplings.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

Each ingredient plays an important role in building the rich flavor and comforting texture of this dish:

Chicken (preferably thighs or breast) – Provides hearty protein and infuses the broth with savory depth.
Carrots – Add natural sweetness and color to the stew.
Celery – Brings a mild bitterness and crunch that balances the soup.
Onion – The flavor foundation of any comforting soup.
Garlic – Adds warmth and depth.
Chicken Broth – The soul of the dish, soaking up all the savory notes from the other ingredients.
All-Purpose Flour – Used in the dumplings for a soft, fluffy texture.
Baking Powder – Gives the dumplings their rise and lightness.
Milk or Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the dumplings.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout.
Fresh Parsley – Brings a pop of freshness and color to finish.
Butter or Olive Oil – Used to sauté vegetables, adding richness.

How To Make the Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender – around 20-25 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Step 3: Mix the Dumpling Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in milk or buttermilk until a sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Drop the Dumplings

Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop small mounds of the dough directly onto the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook in the steam for about 15 minutes. Don’t lift the lid during this time—they need the steam to rise properly.

Step 5: Final Touches

Gently stir in chopped parsley and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, ladled into bowls with dumplings on top.

How to Serve and Store Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables

To serve, ladle the hot broth into deep bowls, making sure to include plenty of dumplings and tender chicken with each portion. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a crack of black pepper if desired. Pair it with crusty bread or a light green salad for a full, hearty meal.

When it comes to storing, this dish holds up beautifully. Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The dumplings may absorb some broth, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep dumplings from becoming dense or doughy?

The key is not to overmix the dough and to let them steam properly with the lid on. Keeping the pot covered while the dumplings cook ensures they rise and stay fluffy.

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?

Absolutely. If you’re in a pinch or want to save time, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just reduce the cooking time for Step 2 and let the flavors meld.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk or buttermilk in the dumpling dough with your favorite dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk.

What vegetables can I swap in?

Feel free to use what you have on hand. Peas, green beans, or even chopped spinach can be stirred in toward the end for extra color and nutrition.

Why are my dumplings tough?

Overworking the dough or boiling too vigorously are common culprits. Stick to gentle mixing and simmering for best texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes! It freezes well in airtight containers. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid overcooking the dumplings.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Perfect Chicken And Dumplings With Vegetables, you’re going to enjoy these other hearty and satisfying chicken meals from the Kitchen By Kate recipe collection:

Try these creamy and indulgent Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for a savory twist.
For a bold kick, the Bang Bang Chicken Recipe delivers spicy flavor in every bite.
Need something cheesy and comforting? Don’t miss the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti.
Looking for a fun spin on flatbread? Whip up this Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza.
Short on time? This one-skillet Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a must-try weeknight favorite.

These dishes are all crafted to deliver bold flavor with easy prep—perfect for any home cook looking to elevate their weeknight meals.