Soft, fluffy, and comforting, these Dumplings for Chicken and Dumplings are the heart of this beloved classic. Perfectly tender with a pillowy texture, they soak up the rich broth of the chicken stew without becoming soggy. Making dumplings from scratch is easier than you might think — a few simple ingredients come together to create the ultimate comfort food topping. I once made these dumplings with a touch of fresh parsley and a pinch of garlic powder, and they added just the right amount of flavor to the dish. Whether you’re serving them over a homemade chicken stew or using leftover chicken soup, these dumplings turn an ordinary meal into a cozy, satisfying experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These homemade dumplings are light, fluffy, and made with pantry staples. They cook right in the simmering broth, absorbing all the savory goodness of the chicken and vegetables. Unlike dense biscuit-style dumplings, this recipe gives you that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture every time. They’re quick to mix, easy to cook, and bring a touch of old-fashioned comfort to your kitchen.
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Dumplings for Chicken and Dumplings – Light, Fluffy, and Homemade
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 10–12 dumplings
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Dumplings for Chicken and Dumplings are soft, fluffy, and perfectly tender — the ideal topping for hearty chicken stew. Made from simple pantry ingredients, they cook right on top of the simmering broth, absorbing all the comforting flavors of the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup whole milk (plus more if needed)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for color)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the milk and stir gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough (about 1 to 2 tablespoons each) directly onto the simmering chicken broth or stew.
- Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to allow the dumplings to steam.
- After 15 minutes, remove the lid and check one dumpling to ensure it’s cooked through (it should be fluffy inside, not doughy).
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately with your favorite chicken stew or soup.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough — light handling keeps the dumplings tender.
- Keep the pot covered while cooking; steam is essential for perfectly fluffy dumplings.
- For richer flavor, substitute half the milk with chicken broth.
- Add herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic touch.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmered / Steamed
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-Purpose Flour – The base for the dumplings, giving them structure while keeping them soft.
Baking Powder – Essential for helping the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy.
Salt – Balances the flavor and enhances the broth when cooked together.
Butter – Adds richness and flavor while keeping the dough tender.
Milk – Brings the dough together and gives it a smooth, soft consistency. Whole milk works best.
Fresh Herbs (optional) – Finely chopped parsley, thyme, or chives add an aromatic touch.
Garlic Powder (optional) – Adds subtle savory depth that pairs beautifully with the chicken broth.
Directions
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. If using herbs or garlic powder, stir them in as well.
Cut in butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add milk, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. The dough should be thick but not sticky; add a little extra flour if necessary.
Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) onto the surface of your simmering chicken broth or stew. Do not stir.
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid during this time — the steam helps the dumplings cook evenly and stay fluffy.
After 15 minutes, remove the lid and test one dumpling to make sure it’s cooked through (it should be soft and fluffy inside, not doughy).
Serve immediately with your favorite chicken and vegetable broth, and enjoy warm, comforting perfection in every bite.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 dumplings, serving 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Dumplings are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the broth over low heat. Avoid microwaving for too long, as dumplings can become rubbery. If making ahead, prepare the dough just before cooking to maintain the best texture.
Variations and Customizations
Herbed Dumplings
Add chopped parsley, thyme, or dill to the dough for added flavor and color.
Buttermilk Dumplings
Replace milk with buttermilk for extra tenderness and a slight tang.
Cheddar Dumplings
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a richer, savory twist.
Garlic Parmesan Dumplings
Add garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese for bold flavor.
Drop Biscuits Version
Bake the dumplings separately on a baking sheet for biscuit-style texture.
Whole Wheat Dumplings
Replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bite.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper for gentle heat.
Dairy-Free Option
Use plant-based milk and vegan butter without sacrificing texture.
Egg Dumplings
Beat one egg into the dough for added structure and richness.
Fluffy Cornmeal Dumplings
Substitute a small portion of flour with cornmeal for a slightly nutty flavor.
FAQs
What’s the secret to fluffy dumplings?
Keep the dough soft and avoid overmixing — too much stirring makes them dense.
Can I cook dumplings in water instead of broth?
Yes, but broth adds much more flavor to the dumplings.
How do I prevent soggy dumplings?
Simmer gently with the lid on and avoid stirring once they’re dropped into the broth.
Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, simply omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
It’s best to make the dough fresh, as it can lose its rise if it sits too long.
Can I freeze the dough?
Not recommended — dumpling dough doesn’t freeze well due to its leavening ingredients.
How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for structure.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but make sure your pot is large enough so the dumplings have room to expand.
What can I serve with these dumplings?
They pair beautifully with chicken soup, creamy stews, or vegetable chowders.
How do I know the dumplings are done?
Cut one open — it should be fluffy and cooked through, not doughy inside.
Conclusion
These Dumplings for Chicken and Dumplings are the perfect finishing touch to any hearty bowl of chicken stew. Soft, flavorful, and easy to make, they elevate simple ingredients into the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you prefer them plain, herbed, or cheesy, these dumplings are a timeless classic that bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Once you master this simple recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions — homemade truly makes all the difference.
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