Baked Chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any mealtime, combining succulent chicken with pillowy dumplings in a rich gravy. This beloved recipe is a crowd-pleaser and an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a cozy culinary experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a satisfying homemade meal, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Growing up, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house were pure magic. The air would be filled with the aroma of baked chicken and dumplings, calling everyone to the table. I remember eagerly watching her, as she gracefully moved around her kitchen, creating delicious art from simple, humble ingredients. This dish wasn’t just a meal; it was an expression of love, drawing our family together. Whenever I cook it now, it’s like a warm hug from those cherished Sundays, bringing a sense of nostalgia and sharing a piece of that history with my own family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked chicken and dumplings recipe is beloved for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. Here are several reasons why it stands out:
- Comfort Food Classic: Few things compare to the satisfaction of biting into tender chicken and luscious dumplings draped in savory gravy.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal for any occasion, whether it be a family dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or when you’re just in need of some comfort.
- Adapt for Preference: Easily tweakable with personal favorite herbs, spices, or additions, making it both customizable and forgiving.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a wholesome meal that satisfies and nourishes.
Ingredients Notes
While the ingredients for baked chicken and dumplings are quite standard, here are some important tips and substitutions:
- Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor, but boneless breasts work well too. Organic or free-range options are recommended for the best taste.
- Dumplings: While homemade dumplings are special, pre-packaged biscuit dough can be a convenient time-saver without compromising the dish too much.
- Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels better, and enhance it with bouillon for added depth if necessary.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary work wonders, but dried varieties suffice when fresh isn’t available.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Prepare Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and some olive oil, setting them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2
Brown the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet or dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter, then add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, then stir in flour, allowing it to cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4
Add Dumplings: Return chicken to the skillet, submerging it in gravy. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough over the top, leaving space between each.
Step 5
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until dumplings are puffed and golden, and chicken is cooked through. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Storage Options
Leftover baked chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven-proof dish covered with foil, and warm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For freezing, transfer cooled portions to freezer bags or containers, keeping them for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as directed above.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the gravy and gluten-free biscuit dough for the dumplings.
- Herb Twist: Add basil or tarragon for a different herbal note, or spice it up with some crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This comfort food masterpiece pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also delightful served with a glass of your favorite white wine. Present it in small cast iron skillets for a rustic touch during gatherings or keep it casual in your cherished family dinnerware for everyday meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dumpling dough a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to top your chicken and bake. Just make sure to keep it covered to prevent drying out.
What can I use if I don’t have a Dutch oven? If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can start the recipe in a regular skillet for the stovetop steps and then transfer the ingredients to a casserole dish or baking pan covered with foil for the baking portion.
Do I need to adjust the recipe for higher altitudes? At higher altitudes, you might need to increase the oven temperature slightly or increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, as moisture evaporates more slowly and dumplings may take longer to cook through.
Can this be made in a Slow Cooker? Yes, to adapt for a slow cooker, brown the chicken as described, then place all ingredients except the dumplings in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding dumplings about 30 minutes before serving.
How can I make it dairy-free? Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and ensure that the biscuit dough is also dairy-free. Some dairy-free margarines can replace butter in the roux if needed.
Baked Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for dumplings
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup milk for dumplings
- 0.25 cup butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot, sear chicken thighs over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot and return chicken, covering them in broth.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter to form dumplings.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture over the chicken in the pot.
- Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes until dumplings are golden brown.
