There’s something soul-soothing about a bowl of easy chicken and dumplings, especially when life feels like it’s moving a little too fast. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a rainy Sunday, this humble dish always delivers warmth in a way takeout never could. And the best part? You don’t need a culinary degree or three hours to make it happen. We’re talking pantry staples, shortcut dumplings, and a recipe that tastes like you borrowed Grandma’s secret—but with half the effort.

This dish came to my rescue one hectic Thursday when I forgot I’d volunteered to bring dinner to my neighbor recovering from surgery. What started as a last-minute throw-together ended in a table full of “oohs” and second helpings. Trust me—this one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Ready in 45 minutes (prep to table!)
Cozy, creamy, and downright nostalgic
Pantry and freezer-friendly
Kid-approved and picky-eater proof
Perfect for using up leftover chicken or turkey

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a hug in a bowl, this recipe checks every box.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth:

4 cups cooked chicken or turkey, chopped
1 cup chopped celery
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
2 (10.5 oz) cans chicken broth
3 cans of water (use the empty soup can to measure)

For the Dumplings:

2 cups self-rising flour
1/4 cup shortening
3/4 cup boiling water (add gradually as needed)

Optional:

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make the Broth: In a large soup pot, combine chicken, celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover and let simmer while making dumplings.
Mix Dumplings: In a bowl, cut shortening into self-rising flour until crumbly. Slowly stir in boiling water, starting with 1/2 cup, until a dough forms.
Roll & Cut: Roll dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thick. Cut into strips, then small squares.
Cook Dumplings: Lift the lid and quickly add dumpling pieces a few at a time, covering after each addition. Let cook 30 seconds between each batch.
Simmer & Serve: Once all dumplings are added, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Alternate Method:
Prefer the rustic route? Pinch off small dough bits and drop straight into the broth. Same taste, less rolling.

Melania’s Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Use rotisserie chicken for speed and flavor depth.
Don’t overwork the dough—your dumplings want to be tender, not chewy.
Stir gently to avoid breaking dumplings as they cook.
Short on time? Use canned biscuits cut into quarters and dropped into broth (a legit mom hack).

Bake It With the Littles

Got eager helpers? Put those tiny hands to work:

Let them mix the dough (hello, flour storm).
Use cookie cutters for fun dumpling shapes.
Have them ladle bowls—just cool slightly first.

This recipe is a great intro to kitchen confidence for kiddos—and bonus points if they try a celery piece without grimacing!

Meal-Prep Magic

Make Ahead: The broth and chicken mixture can be made 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
Freeze It: Freeze the whole dish, dumplings and all, in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove.
Double Batch: Make extra dumplings and freeze them uncooked—future-you will be thrilled.

Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

Use whole wheat self-rising flour for added fiber.
Sub Greek yogurt for shortening (makes it tangy and tender).
Add frozen peas or diced carrots for more veggies.
Use low-sodium broth and soup to cut salt.

Leftover Remix

Don’t let that last bowl go lonely in the fridge:

Pot Pie Filling: Pour into a pie crust, bake at 375°F till golden.
Creamy Pasta Sauce: Thin with a splash of milk and toss with egg noodles.
Lunch Thermos Star: Perfect in a kid’s thermos with a side of crackers.

Gift It Like a Pro

Deliver it in a large mason jar or disposable soup container, tied with twine and a handwritten tag. Pair it with:

A mini loaf of cornbread
A printed copy of the recipe
A cozy tea towel or spoon

Ideal for new moms, sick friends, or neighbors who just need a little comfort.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely. Just cook and chop it before adding.

What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
Use 2 cups all-purpose flour + 1 Tbsp baking powder + 1/2 tsp salt.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use a dairy-free soup alternative like Pacific Foods’ chicken-style soup.

Do the dumplings reheat well?
They sure do! Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to revive that creamy texture.

Final Thought

Easy chicken and dumplings isn’t just a recipe—it’s an act of kindness in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding your family, comforting a friend, or just indulging in some much-deserved self-care, this dish brings people together with every bite. So roll up those sleeves, grab your favorite soup pot, and make a little magic tonight. Because cozy doesn’t have to be complicated.