Spread the love

Easy Chicken and Dumplings. If that phrase already has you drooling, you’re not alone. I seriously used to think you needed your grandma’s patience and an entire afternoon to pull this off (spoiler: you do NOT). Honestly, we all get busy—work, family, maybe just being plain tired. Who has the time? If you’re like me and crave southern comfort food without a mountain of dishes, you’re in luck. Plus, it pairs pretty dang well with other quick dinners like these crockpot steak bites when you want to keep the week easy but still hearty.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Easier

Let’s cut to the chase. You want real-deal flavor, minus the fuss. My trick is to use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken (yes, bought from the store). None of that boiling a whole bird nonsense. Shred it up and toss it in—fast. Another trick: grab canned biscuit dough. I know, I know, Nana would clutch her pearls… but trust me, you’ll save twenty minutes and your family will never notice the difference.

As for the soup part, go simple. I use boxed chicken broth with a can of creamy chicken soup. Simmer it all together (add a little garlic or frozen mixed veggies if you’re feeling wild), drop in those biscuit bits, and in about twenty-five minutes you’ve got a bubbling, cozy pot of Easy Chicken and Dumplings.

“I made this after work and couldn’t believe how quick and comforting it was. Even my picky eater wanted seconds. Total lifesaver on a weeknight!”

How to Tell When Your Shortcut Dumplings Are Done

Okay, so this part tripped me up the first time. It’s kind of a guessing game… except it isn’t, really. You just have to check ’em. Grab a fork and poke open a dumpling. If it still looks doughy in the center, give it a few more minutes. Plop the lid back on and let them steam a bit more. Don’t be freaked if they look kind of funny—biscuit dough poofs up (sometimes a LOT). Texture should be fluffy but not raw.

What I’ve found? They kinda float to the top once they’re done, puffing up just like little clouds. If they’re too sticky, drop them as smaller pieces next time. I always have to remind myself: it isn’t a five-star restaurant. It’s about coziness, not perfection.

Easy Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Here’s the deal—the basics taste great, but sometimes you want a little something different. Throw in frozen peas and carrots or corn for a pop of color. My friend drops a whole jalapeño in hers (labeled lethal after that one bite). If you love that old-school flavor, sprinkle in thyme or a touch of poultry seasoning.

Now, some folks like theirs super thick. If that’s you, toss in a handful of instant mashed potato flakes or just let it cook uncovered to thicken. Sometimes, I add a glug of heavy cream when I’m feeling fancy. You can even swap out chicken for turkey after the holidays (way to clean out those leftovers).

Want dinner variety? Check my recipe for bruschetta chicken bake—also a weeknight rockstar.

Suggested Side Dishes to Pair

You honestly don’t need much with Easy Chicken and Dumplings—but here’s what I throw next to it for that full “grandma’s table” feel.

Crusty bread (for the sopping. Non-negotiable)
Steamed broccoli or green beans (because health, right?)
Simple garden salad with a punchy vinaigrette
Maybe, maybe homemade applesauce (but that’s just nostalgia)

Honestly though, you could eat it straight from the bowl and nobody would judge. At least, not in my house.

Nutritional Information and Tips

This dish lands pretty squarely in comfort food territory, but it isn’t a calorie bomb unless you drown it in cream. Most of the richness comes from the chicken and the easy canned soup. If you want to lighten things up, use low-sodium broth and swap for the reduced fat soup (nobody will notice, I promise).

Keep portions modest if you’re watching carbs. Those biscuit dumplings are delicious, but they sneak up on you. One bowl fills me up, so maybe don’t double up unless you’ve got a big crew at the table. Oh, and always taste before serving—a pinch of salt or fresh pepper at the end works wonders.

Common Questions

Can I use homemade dumplings instead of canned biscuits?
Absolutely, but honestly, canned biscuits are way easier for busy nights. Homemade is tasty but takes more time.

How long does it keep in the fridge?
Usually about three days. I just reheat in the microwave for lunch, and it’s still great.

What kind of chicken should I use?
Rotisserie is quickest, but leftover roast or even poached chicken breast works fine.

Is it ok to freeze Easy Chicken and Dumplings?
Sorta, but dumplings can get weird when thawed. If you have to freeze, do just the soup, then make fresh dumplings when you reheat.

How thick should the broth be?
That’s totally up to you. I like it kinda stew-y, not thin, but if you like more broth, just add an extra cup.

Bring Home the Comfort with Chicken and Dumplings

I’m telling you, Easy Chicken and Dumplings needs a permanent place in your dinner rotation. This isn’t just another recipe, but a legit weeknight rescue plan. If you crave more inspiration, there are always great ideas like Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe and Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe from folks who love shortcuts as much as taste. Try it out and let me know—you’ll get flavor, comfort, and about fifty fewer dirty dishes. Enjoy yourself and dig in!

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Author: hamidkom
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Comfort Food

Print Recipe

Description

Quick and comforting chicken and dumplings made with rotisserie chicken and canned biscuit dough for a hassle-free weeknight meal.

Ingredients

1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 can of creamy chicken soup
4 cups chicken broth
1 can of biscuit dough
1 clove garlic (optional)
Frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large pot, combine shredded rotisserie chicken, chicken broth, and creamy chicken soup. Bring to a simmer.
Add garlic and mixed vegetables if desired. Stir until combined.
Using a spoon, drop pieces of biscuit dough into the pot.
Cover and let simmer for about 25 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Check dumplings by poking the center; cook longer if still doughy.

Notes

For a thicker broth, add instant mashed potato flakes or cook uncovered for a few minutes. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American