Easy Cheater Chicken And Dumplings Recipe: Hearty Comfort Food

Comfort arrives with this cheater chicken and dumplings, a magical shortcut through culinary convenience.

Quick tricks transform standard ingredients into something extraordinary.

Southern kitchens whisper secrets about effortless meals that feel like warm hugs.

Hearty flavors dance between tender chicken and pillowy dough without complicated techniques.

Minimal effort produces maximum satisfaction in this simplified classic.

Shortcuts mean you can enjoy delicious tradition without spending hours in the kitchen.

Dive into this streamlined recipe that proves deliciousness doesn’t demand endless preparation.

FAQs

These are considered “cheater” dumplings because they use a simple drop dumpling method instead of traditional rolled or cut dumplings, making the recipe much faster and easier to prepare.

• Can I use different types of chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even shredded turkey as a substitute for the cooked chicken in this recipe.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chicken and dumplings recipe can be made ahead and reheated easily. The dumplings actually taste great the next day, and the flavors continue to develop as they sit.

• How can I make this recipe more creamy?

To increase the creaminess, you can add an extra splash of half-and-half or use heavy cream instead. The cornstarch will also help thicken the soup and create a richer texture.

Chicken and Dumplings Made Easy and Loved for Its Cozy Flavor

• Quick Weekend Comfort: Whip up this hearty chicken and dumplings recipe in under an hour, perfect for busy families craving a satisfying meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Minimal Cooking Skills Required: Even novice cooks can master this simplified version, with straightforward steps and basic ingredients that don't demand professional culinary expertise.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for chilly dinners, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings, this dish appeals to both kids and adults with its warm, homestyle flavors and comforting texture.
• Budget-Friendly Meal: Uses affordable, common ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and pantry staples, making it an economical option for stretching your grocery budget while delivering maximum flavor.

Cheater Chicken and Dumplings Full Ingredient List

• Butter: Rich foundation for sautéing vegetables, adds deep flavor and smooth texture.
• Onion: Aromatic base that provides sweet and savory depth to the soup.
• Carrots, Celery: Classic soup vegetables that contribute earthy sweetness and crisp texture.
• Chicken Broth: Essential liquid base that delivers rich, savory chicken flavor.
• Cooked Chicken: Protein-packed main ingredient, best using shredded or diced white meat.
• Peas: Sweet, tender vegetable that adds color and mild flavor to the soup.
• Garlic Powder, Thyme, Salt, Pepper: Seasoning blend for depth and balanced taste.

• Flour: Provides structure and thickness for the dumplings.
• Baking Powder: Helps dumplings rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt, Sugar: Enhances overall flavor of the dumpling mixture.
• Milk, Melted Butter: Binding agents that create tender, soft dumplings.

• Cornstarch: Optional thickening agent for a more substantial soup texture.
• Half-and-Half: Adds creaminess and rich smoothness to the final dish.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional fresh garnish for color and subtle herbal note.

Chicken and Dumpling Instructions Using Easy Shortcuts

Step 1: Sizzle the Aromatics

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery.

Let them dance and soften for about 5 minutes, releasing their delicious flavors.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring to a gentle simmer.

• Shredded cooked chicken
• Frozen peas
• Garlic powder
• Thyme
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything together and let the soup bubble softly for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Whip Up Fluffy Dumplings

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar

Pour in milk and melted butter.

Stir until just mixed.

The dough should look thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 4: Create Dumpling Clouds

Gently drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture onto the simmering soup.

Cover the pot with a lid and let them cook for 15-20 minutes.

They’ll puff up and become wonderfully tender.

Step 5: Enhance the Texture

For a richer soup, mix cornstarch with water and swirl into the pot.

Pour in half-and-half and stir carefully.

Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasonings.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the steaming soup into bowls.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like.

Grab a spoon and dig in!

Quick Comfort Tips for Cheater Chicken Dumplings

Rotisserie or leftover chicken work perfectly, saving time and adding instant flavor to your dumpling dish.

Adjust milk quantity for lighter or denser dumplings – less milk creates firmer, more milk results in softer dumplings.

Use cornstarch slurry strategically to thicken or thin the soup, creating your ideal comfort food texture.

Substitute half-and-half with heavy cream for richer taste or use whole milk for lighter version without compromising creaminess.

Replace wheat flour with gluten-free blend and use plant-based milk and butter for a gluten-free and dairy-free alternative that maintains delicious comfort food essence.

Store Cheater Chicken and Dumplings

• Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, keeping the soup and dumplings together.
• Carefully transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain dumpling texture. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup seems too thick.
• Reheat in short intervals, stirring between each, to prevent dumplings from becoming rubbery or overcooked.

What Complements Cheater Chicken and Dumplings

• Pair Refreshing White Wine: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, rich chicken and dumplings. These light wines cut through the soup's heaviness and provide a bright, clean contrast.
• Serve Crusty Artisan Bread: Choose a rustic sourdough or herbed focaccia to soak up the delicious broth. The bread's sturdy texture and slight tanginess enhance the comforting flavors of the dish.
• Create Fresh Green Salad: Toss a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette to add brightness and crunch. The salad's acidity balances the soup's creamy, hearty profile and provides a refreshing counterpoint.
• Recommend Herbal Iced Tea: Brew a cool, unsweetened mint or chamomile tea as a non-alcoholic option. Its light, herbal notes cleanse the palate and offer a soothing accompaniment to the warm, comforting soup.

Shortcut Ideas for Chicken and Dumplings

• Gluten-Free Dumpling Delight: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring those with celiac disease can enjoy this comforting meal.
• Dairy-Free Chicken Comfort: Swap milk and half-and-half with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk, and use olive oil instead of butter for a lactose-free version.
• Vegetarian Veggie Dumplings: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives, and use vegetable broth to create a meat-free rendition of the classic dish.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Conversion: Replace traditional dumplings with grated cauliflower dumplings, using almond flour or coconut flour as a binding agent for a lighter, low-carbohydrate option.

Cheater Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

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4.5 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets Southern charm in this cheater chicken and dumplings recipe, a quick twist on classic comfort food. Hearty shortcuts and rich flavors merge effortlessly, promising you a delicious meal without hours of preparation.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1.5 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 4 cups chicken broth

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 0.5 cup frozen peas

Soup and Dumpling Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dumpling Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Dumpling Wet Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup milk
• 0.25 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Craft the aromatic foundation by melting butter in a spacious pot over medium flame. Gently sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they transform into tender, translucent morsels, releasing their subtle fragrance.
2. Introduce chicken broth to the vegetable medley, allowing the liquid to reach a gentle simmer. Incorporate cooked chicken, verdant peas, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Allow the mixture to quietly bubble and meld for 10-15 minutes.
3. Prepare the dumpling mixture in a separate vessel by whisking flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar together. Pour in milk and melted butter, stirring until the batter reaches a thick, pillowy consistency that can be easily spooned.
4. Carefully drop dollops of dumpling batter onto the simmering soup, ensuring even coverage across the surface. Seal the pot with a lid, permitting the dumplings to steam and expand for 15-20 minutes until they become puffy and firm.
5. For those desiring a more luxurious texture, create a quick slurry by blending cornstarch with water. Gently stir this into the soup, then introduce half-and-half to create a silky, rich base. Simmer an additional 5 minutes, tasting and adjusting seasonings as needed.
6. Serve the comforting creation by ladling into warm bowls, optionally garnishing with delicate fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous essence.

Notes

• Swap out regular flour for gluten-free flour blend to make this dish celiac-friendly and maintain the same fluffy dumpling texture.
• Use shredded rotisserie chicken for maximum convenience and deeper flavor without extra cooking time.
• Customize the soup’s consistency by adjusting liquid ratios – add more broth for a thinner soup or reduce for a heartier stew-like meal.
• Enhance protein content by adding diced ham or additional chicken for a more substantial one-pot dinner option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 55mg