Save A comforting, hearty casserole combining tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings baked in a creamy, savory sauce.
Chicken and dumplings casserole quickly became a favorite in my home—especially on chilly evenings when all we want is something warm and satisfying. The blend of flavors and textures reminds me of my grandmother's recipe, bringing back special memories each time I bake it.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced
- Carrots: 1 cup, diced
- Celery: 1 cup, diced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (for chicken mixture), 1 cup (for dumplings)
- Chicken broth: 2 cups
- Whole milk: 1 cup (for chicken mixture), 1/2 cup (for dumplings)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (plus 1/2 teaspoon for dumplings)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Unsalted butter (melted): 2 tablespoons
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Flour:
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables. Stir for 1 minute.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Cook, stirring, until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings:
- Add cooked chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish:
- Transfer chicken mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Make Dumpling Dough:
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt for dumplings. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined. Fold in parsley if using.
- Drop Dumplings:
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough evenly over chicken mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes, until dumplings are golden and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Save This dish is always a hit at family gatherings, especially when my kids can help drop the dumpling dough on top. It encourages everyone to take part, making dinnertime even more special.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or steamed green beans, balancing its rich flavors.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the chicken mixture and dumpling dough separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve for optimal texture.
Nutrition Information
Each serving has about 420 calories, with 17 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save Enjoy comforting homemade flavor with a golden topping and creamy filling every time you make this casserole. It's sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor while saving time.
- → What herbs work well in this casserole?
Thyme is traditional, but rosemary or sage can also enhance the savory flavors.
- → How do I ensure the dumplings turn out fluffy?
Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients without overmixing, then drop spoonfuls evenly over the filling before baking.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, prepare the chicken mixture and dumplings separately, then assemble and bake just before serving for best results.
- → What sides complement this casserole?
Light green salad or steamed green beans provide a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.