Chicken And Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, heartwarming meal that will please the entire family? Look no further than this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe! A combination of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and creamy sauce baked to perfection, this casserole is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a weekend meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Stick around to learn how to make this delectable casserole, along with tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

What is Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Chicken and dumpling casserole is a one-dish wonder that combines the flavors of a classic chicken and dumplings soup into a hearty, oven-baked casserole. Traditionally, chicken and dumplings are made by simmering chicken in broth with homemade dumplings floating on top. In this recipe, we've taken that concept and turned it into a convenient, crowd-pleasing casserole that has all the comforting flavors of the original, but with less fuss. It's a perfect blend of creamy chicken filling and biscuit-like dumplings, baked to golden-brown perfection.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

To make this casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Mixture:

• 3 cups of cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup of milk
• ½ cup of sour cream
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup of frozen peas (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• ¼ cup melted butter

These ingredients come together to create a casserole that is rich, savory, and full of texture—guaranteed to satisfy your craving for comfort food.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak it to match your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. Also, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a plant-based cream soup.
• Gluten-Free: If you're following a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free baking powder for the dumplings. Replace the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free variety or make a homemade version.
• Low Carb: For a low-carb version, replace the dumplings with cauliflower florets or use a low-carb baking mix.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to bring a little heat or smokiness to the dish. For extra depth of flavor, fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can also be added.

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. It's adaptable and forgiving, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this savory casserole? Follow these easy step-by-step instructions to create your own Chicken and Dumpling Casserole at home.

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

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, gather all your ingredients and ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, chopped onion, diced carrots, peas (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Pour this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Prepare the Dumplings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your dumplings tough.
4. Add the Dumplings to the Casserole: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the chicken mixture, spacing them evenly across the top. The dumplings will expand as they bake, so leave a bit of room between each spoonful.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the dumplings are golden brown and cooked through. The filling should be bubbly, and the dumplings should be firm but still tender.
6. Let It Rest: After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a chance to thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, here are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of:

1. Overmixing the Dumpling Dough: Overworking the dough can lead to dense, chewy dumplings rather than the light, fluffy texture you're aiming for. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Not Letting the Casserole Rest: It can be tempting to dig right in, but letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
3. Undercooked Dumplings: Ensure the dumplings are fully cooked by testing one with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your dumplings are done. If not, cover the casserole with foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure your chicken is just cooked through before shredding it. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, which will affect the overall texture of the casserole.

By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a perfect Chicken and Dumpling Casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your casserole is perfectly baked and rested, it’s time to serve it. While this dish is inherently casual and homey, there are ways to elevate its presentation and make it look as appetizing as it tastes.

How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad. Serve it in generous spoonfuls, making sure each portion includes both chicken and dumplings. Since the casserole is rich and creamy, it works well with lighter, brighter sides to balance out the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Even though Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a rustic dish, you can still make it visually appealing:

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Baking Dish: Serve the casserole directly from a beautiful oven-to-table baking dish to enhance its presentation.
• Serving Bowls: For an extra touch of coziness, dish out individual portions into small, decorative bowls, and serve each one with a slice of crusty bread.

By paying attention to how you serve and present the dish, you can turn a simple casserole into an impressive meal.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

To get the most out of your casserole, here are a few expert tips to consider:

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use biscuits instead of making dumplings from scratch?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought biscuit dough if you're short on time. Simply place the biscuit pieces on top of the chicken mixture and bake as directed.

Q: How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?
A: The dumplings should be golden brown on top and firm but tender when you press on them lightly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: Can I make this casserole with turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes, leftover turkey is an excellent substitute for chicken in this recipe.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or special gathering. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and offers the heartwarming satisfaction that only classic home-cooked meals can provide. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don't forget to customize it to your liking with the variations and tips provided, and enjoy this cozy meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

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