Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make? This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole takes all the flavors of traditional chicken and dumplings and turns them into an oven-baked delight. This recipe layers tender chicken, savory broth, fluffy biscuit-like dumplings, and a creamy sauce, creating a one-pan meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a cozy dish perfect for any time of year, especially on those cool evenings when you need something hearty to fill you up. Let’s walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make the ultimate Chicken and Dumpling Casserole!

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What is Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a baked version of the beloved Southern comfort dish, chicken and dumplings. Instead of simmering the dumplings in broth on the stove, this casserole bakes a creamy chicken mixture topped with a biscuit-like dumpling crust in the oven. The result is a dish that combines the best of both worlds: tender chicken, a flavorful sauce, and golden dumplings, all in one delicious casserole. It’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of chicken and dumplings without the extra steps involved in traditional preparation.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty dish:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: You can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken or cook your own.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This provides a creamy base for the casserole. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery if you prefer.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the dish.
• 1 cup milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but any milk will work.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: This will form part of the dumpling crust.
• 1 cup self-rising flour: This is essential for the dumplings to rise properly. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding baking powder and salt to all-purpose flour (see tips below).
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds flavor and texture to the chicken mixture.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional): You can add peas, carrots, corn, or green beans for extra heartiness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For extra flavor.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season according to your preference.
• Chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional): For added freshness and color.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use canned chicken, leftover turkey, or even pre-cooked shredded pork.
• Cream of Soup Substitutes: Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free cream soup to make this recipe lactose-free.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian take.
• Spices and Herbs: Feel free to add more spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to customize the flavor to your liking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this easy Chicken and Dumpling Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the chicken layer: In the greased baking dish, spread the cooked shredded or diced chicken evenly across the bottom. If using frozen vegetables, sprinkle them over the chicken.
3. Make the creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the can of cream of chicken soup and 1 ½ cups of chicken broth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
4. Prepare the dumpling topping: In a separate bowl, mix the self-rising flour and milk until smooth. Slowly stir in the melted butter. This mixture will form the “dumpling” layer.
5. Layer the dumplings: Carefully pour the flour mixture over the chicken and soup mixture. Do not stir. This creates the dumpling-like top layer.
6. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish and serve: Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and serve warm. It’s perfect with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

How to Cook Chicken and Dumpling Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this casserole is simple, but here are a few extra tips to make sure everything comes out perfectly:

• Use Cooked Chicken: This recipe calls for cooked chicken, so if you’re starting with raw chicken breasts or thighs, boil, roast, or sauté them beforehand. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
• Even Layers: When layering the ingredients, make sure each layer is spread evenly. This ensures you get a good balance of chicken, sauce, and dumplings in every bite.
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. You want the top to be golden brown, but not overly browned or dry. If it’s browning too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with foil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Using Self-Rising Flour: Self-rising flour is crucial for the dumplings to puff up and form a fluffy top. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
• Overmixing the Batter: When mixing the dumpling topping, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense dumplings.
• Undercooking the Casserole: Make sure the casserole is fully baked with a bubbly, golden top. If the center is still runny, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is baked to golden perfection, it’s time to serve. Here are a few ways to present and pair the dish:

• Slice Neatly: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dumpling layer to set. Use a sharp knife to cut clean squares.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Pair with Side Dishes: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are a few suggestions:

• With a Side of Bread: Serve with crusty bread or warm biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Light Salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for extra nutrients and color on your plate.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, and let everyone help themselves at the table. It’s perfect for a cozy, family-style dinner.
• Individual Servings: Slice the casserole into portions and serve on plates with a garnish of fresh herbs for a more polished presentation.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s cooked through.
• Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave. For best results, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. To freeze after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then freeze individual portions for easy reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use canned chicken for a quick and easy option. Just drain it and use it in place of cooked chicken.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can add frozen or fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, green beans, or corn. Simply layer them over the chicken before adding the sauce.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for best results.

Q: What should I serve with Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?
A: This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and topped with fluffy dumplings. It’s a simplified take on classic chicken and dumplings that’s perfect for a family dinner or when you need a cozy, satisfying meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple baking method, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or even as a make-ahead meal. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a delicious, heartwarming dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite!

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