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There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of Chicken and Dumplings. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or simply craving comfort food, this Southern classic wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. With tender chunks of chicken swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth and topped with fluffy dumplings, it’s no wonder this dish has earned its place at the heart of American comfort cuisine.

In today’s version, we’re making it even easier with a shortcut you’ll love—Bisquick! Yes, Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings is the kind of kitchen hack that feels like a secret passed down through generations. The dumplings come out soft, cloud-like, and full of flavor, and they save you time without compromising taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking for a delicious win, this Easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe has your back. Get ready to stir up something hearty, homey, and absolutely unforgettable.

What Are Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and Dumplings is a classic American comfort food dish made with tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth and topped with soft, fluffy dumplings. The dish is often considered soul food in many parts of the U.S., especially the South, where it’s a staple at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and potlucks.

There are two main parts to this dish:

• The Chicken Stew: A thick, creamy soup filled with shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and onions. It’s seasoned with herbs like thyme and bay leaf to create a deep, homey flavor.
• The Dumplings: These are soft, biscuit-like dough balls that are dropped into the simmering soup and cooked by steam. In our version, we use Bisquick to save time without sacrificing that pillowy texture.

Think of Chicken and Dumplings as a warm hug in a bowl—comforting, filling, and incredibly satisfying.

How to Cook Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting Chicken and Dumplings recipe using Bisquick:

For the Chicken Stew

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Keeps the butter from burning and adds depth.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory base.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
• 2 celery stalks, sliced – Brings a subtle earthiness and crunch.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – Gives the stew a bold, aromatic flavor.
• 6 cups chicken broth – The heart of your stew; use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a gentle kick.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Gives the broth a warm, herby note.
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional) – For added classic flavor.
• 1 bay leaf – Infuses the broth with a deep, aromatic essence.
• ¾ cup frozen peas – Tossed in at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
• ½ cup heavy cream – Makes the broth creamy and indulgent.

For the Bisquick Dumplings

• 2 cups Bisquick baking mix – The star of the shortcut! Makes light and fluffy dumplings.
• ⅔ cup milk – Combines with the Bisquick to form the dough.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For color and freshness in the dumplings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the coziest Chicken and Dumplings you’ll ever make.

1. Saute the Vegetables

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.

2. Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add thyme, salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. for homemade Let the spices bloom for 30 seconds to bring out their aroma. Want to use a homemade blend? Try our Garlic and Herb Seasoning recipe for a flavorful twist!

3. Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and toss in the bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.

4. Add the Chicken

Add your cooked shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes so the flavors can develop.

5. Prepare the Bisquick Dumplings

While the stew simmers, make your dumpling dough. In a medium bowl, combine Bisquick mix, milk, and parsley. Stir just until combined—don’t overmix, or the dumplings may turn dense.

6. Drop the Dumplings

Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Using a spoon, gently drop rounded spoonfuls of dumpling dough on top of the simmering stew. You should get about 8–10 dumplings.

7. Cover and Steam

Cover the pot tightly with a lid and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid! The trapped steam is what makes the dumplings rise and cook through perfectly.

8. Finish with Peas and Cream

After 15 minutes, remove the lid. The dumplings should be puffed up and cooked through. Gently stir in frozen peas and heavy cream. Let the stew simmer for 5 more minutes until everything is heated through.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the creamy chicken stew into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a couple of fluffy dumplings on top. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Recipe

• Don’t Peek While Steaming Dumplings: Lifting the lid releases the steam needed to cook the dumplings, so keep it tightly covered during those 15 minutes.
• Rotisserie Chicken Saves Time: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving trick without sacrificing flavor.
• Heavy Cream Adds Luxury: While optional, that splash of cream at the end takes the stew from everyday to extraordinary.
• Avoid Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined—overworked dough leads to chewy dumplings instead of light and airy ones.
• Let the Stew Thicken: If the broth feels too thin, remove the dumplings and let the stew simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and Dumplings is a meal in itself, but when you’re setting the table for a cozy family dinner or hosting guests, thoughtful pairings can elevate the entire experience. Here’s how to round out your meal beautifully:

1. Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp green salad with romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette offers the perfect contrast to the creamy richness of the stew. For an extra crunch, add candied pecans or croutons.

Why it works: The acidity from the vinaigrette balances the creamy broth and resets the palate between bites.

2. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus with a sprinkle of sea salt and garlic pair well with this hearty dish.

Why it works: They add color, texture, and nutrients without overpowering the delicate flavor of the chicken.

3. Cornbread or Buttermilk Biscuits

Even though dumplings are already in the dish, a flaky biscuit or warm cornbread on the side is Southern tradition. Drizzle a little honey over cornbread for a sweet-savory touch.

Pro Tip: Use leftovers to mop up the last bits of creamy broth.

4. Apple Slaw or Pickled Veggies

Serve a tangy apple slaw or a small dish of pickled okra, cucumbers, or onions on the side.

Why it works: Their acidity brightens the meal and cuts through the heaviness.

5. Refreshing Drinks

Pair with:

• Sweet tea for a Southern feel
• Light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
• Apple cider (hot or cold) in the fall months

6. Simple Desserts

After a rich meal, keep dessert light. Consider:

• A slice of apple pie
• Berries with whipped cream
• Lemon sorbet

Finish with a smile: These desserts keep the comforting theme going without leaving you feeling overly full.

Recipe Variations & Customizations

This Chicken and Dumplings recipe is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to tweak it to fit your dietary needs, taste preferences, or pantry limitations:

Protein Swaps

• Turkey: Great for post-holiday leftovers.
• Tofu or Jackfruit: For a vegetarian version, add firm tofu or shredded jackfruit in place of chicken.
• Ground Chicken: If that’s all you have, brown it first for a rustic twist.

Veggie Add-ins

• Mushrooms: Add depth and umami.
• Corn kernels: Adds sweetness and a fun texture.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in at the end for extra greens.
• Leeks instead of onions: For a milder, slightly sweet flavor.

Dumpling Customizations

• Herbed Dumplings: Mix in rosemary, dill, thyme, or parsley directly into the Bisquick mix.
• Cheesy Dumplings: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan for indulgent, melty goodness.
• Cornmeal Bisquick Dumplings: Mix in a tablespoon of cornmeal for a heartier Southern vibe.

Flavor Boosts

• Spicy Version: Stir in ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the broth.
• Garlic-Lovers’ Style: Double the garlic and finish with a garlic-infused butter drizzle.
• Lemon-Herb Finish: Add lemon zest and juice right before serving for a bright, citrusy twist.

Creamy or Brothy?

• Extra Creamy: Use a full cup of heavy cream and simmer longer for thickness.
• Lighter Broth: Omit the cream entirely or substitute with low-fat milk or even a splash of almond milk.

 Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free Bisquick and double-check your broth is gluten-free. The result is just as comforting and fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, just simmer raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the broth for about 20 minutes, then shred and return to the pot.

Is This a Soup or a Stew?
While some may refer to Chicken and Dumplings as a soup, this version is much closer to a stew. Thanks to its creamy, thickened broth and fluffy Bisquick dumplings, it’s hearty enough to be served as a full meal—not just a starter. The dumplings soak up the rich flavors, making each bite satisfyingly cozy and filling. If you’re looking for a comforting one-bowl dinner, this hits the mark.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the stew can be made ahead and reheated. Add the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
It’s best to freeze just the chicken stew. Dumplings don’t always reheat well after freezing, as they can turn mushy.

What’s the best pot to use for this recipe?
A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large stockpot works best for even heat distribution and enough room for the dumplings to expand.

How do I know the dumplings are fully cooked?
Cut one open—if the center is fluffy and not doughy, they’re done.

Substitutes & Ingredient Alternatives

• Bisquick Alternative: You can make your own mix with 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons butter.
• Milk Substitute: Use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or even chicken broth if you’re out of milk.
• Heavy Cream Swap: Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or whole milk with a bit of butter.
• Chicken Broth Substitute: Vegetable broth or bone broth works great, too.
• No Fresh Veggies? Use a frozen mirepoix blend or mixed vegetables.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

Calories: ~420
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a cozy meal that warms your soul and fills your belly, this Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings recipe is just the ticket. It’s everything comfort food should be—rich, creamy, satisfying, and surprisingly simple. With everyday ingredients and a quick-fix dumpling dough, you’ll want to come back to this recipe again and again.

Have you tried making this Chicken and Dumplings recipe? Let us know in the comments how it turned out for you—and if you made any delicious tweaks!

If you love this recipe, check out our Creamy Chicken flautas or pineapple cheese Casserole next!

Don’t forget to rate and share this recipe—happy cooking!