5 Quick Chicken and Dumplings Pot Recipes

Chicken and dumplings is a beloved comfort dish, reminiscent of cozy nights, family gatherings, and heartwarming meals. This classic Southern comfort food has seen many adaptations over the years, with home cooks and chefs finding new and exciting ways to give it a unique twist while keeping its soul intact. In this post, we're going to explore five quick and inventive recipes for chicken and dumplings pot, tailored for those days when you need warmth and sustenance in a jiffy. Whether you're short on time or looking for something new to try, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Classic Chicken and Dumplings Pot

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks of celery, sliced
• 1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup cold water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until the onions are translucent.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and add it to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then shred or chop it, discarding the skin and bones. Return the chicken to the pot.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme.
6. In a bowl, mix flour and cold water to create a dumpling dough. Drop spoonfuls into the simmering broth.
7. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, then uncover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.

🍽 Note: For a thicker stew, you can make a roux with butter and flour and whisk it into the broth before adding the dumplings.

2. Spicy Chicken and Dumplings Pot

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for extra heat)
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 3 cups chicken stock
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Dumpling dough from the first recipe

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown the chicken, then set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft.
3. Stir in the spices, letting them toast for 30 seconds.
4. Add the chicken back into the pot along with stock and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Drop in the dumplings, cover, and cook as per the classic recipe.

3. Vegetarian Chickpea and Dumplings Pot

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• Dumpling dough as per previous recipes

Instructions:

1. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add thyme, chickpeas, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Drop in dumplings and cook until they are done.

4. Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Pot

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Dumpling dough (flour, baking powder, milk, butter, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients except the peas and dumplings into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Shred the chicken directly in the pot, then add peas.
3. Mix your dumpling dough and drop it into the pot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes until the dumplings are cooked.

5. Smoky Andouille and Chicken Dumplings Pot

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 lb boneless chicken, cubed
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Dumpling dough as per the classic recipe

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage in a pot, then remove.
2. In the same pot, season and cook the chicken, then remove.
3. Cook the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, then add Cajun seasoning.
4. Return meat to the pot with the stock and tomatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add dumplings and cook as instructed previously.

🔥 Note: For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock or use bouillon cubes for added depth.

These recipes for chicken and dumplings pot offer a delightful blend of flavors and techniques, perfect for any occasion. From the classic comfort of the traditional recipe to the spicy twist of the Andouille sausage, there's a version for every taste preference. Not only do they provide warmth and comfort, but they also introduce a range of culinary skills from stovetop to slow cooker, enriching your cooking repertoire. Whether you're cooking for one or many, these dishes are guaranteed to fill your home with the inviting aromas of a hearty meal. Enjoy exploring these variations and let the rich, comforting flavors of chicken and dumplings bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

Can I make chicken and dumplings ahead of time?

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Yes, you can prepare the soup base and cook the dumplings just before serving to maintain their texture. You can also freeze the soup base without the dumplings for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat, adding freshly made dumplings.

Are dumplings healthy?

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Dumplings can be part of a healthy diet if made with whole grain flour and less fat. However, traditional recipes might be heavy on butter or cream, so consider lighter versions or portion control for a healthier meal.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

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To thicken the soup, you can create a slurry with cornstarch or flour and water, then slowly stir it into the simmering soup until you reach your desired consistency.

What sides go well with chicken and dumplings?

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Pair chicken and dumplings with sides like green salads, crusty bread for soaking up the broth, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.