When it comes to warmth in a bowl, few dishes can compete with chicken and dumplings. The combination of juicy chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
But let’s be real—when you’re in the middle of a busy week, the idea of preparing traditional dumplings from scratch can be exhausting. That’s where frozen dumplings come in. They are a game-changer! Pair this dish with a crisp, green salad or some crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Let me guide you through this culinary experience of making chicken and dumplings with frozen dumplings. We’ll dive into the ingredients, the steps, the tips, and even answer some burning questions along the way. Trust me; by the end of this, you’ll be ready to whip this up without breaking a sweat.
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that has roots in several cultural cuisines. At its heart, it combines tender chicken and vegetables in a savory broth, all topped with soft dumplings. Using frozen dumplings saves time, allowing you to create a delicious dish in less time.
Using frozen dumplings means you don’t need a three-hour cooking session. Just prepare your broth, add the chicken and veggies, and let those dumplings do their thing. Frozen dumplings are prepped conveniently, meaning you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal rather than slaving over the stove.
There are many reasons to love this dish. First off, it’s a harmonious blend of flavor and texture. The rich broth pairs perfectly with the savory dumplings, while the vegetables add a splash of color and nutrition.
This dish also shines with its versatility. Want to use leftover chicken? Go for it! Need to sneak in some extra veggies? Toss them in. You can personalize it to fit your tastes and leftovers.
This recipe is a staple in my household. When the weather turns chilly or the day was long, there’s nothing better than coming home to a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings. Kids love it, adults savor it, and even your grandma will nod in approval. It’s that kind of meal: sturdy yet forgiving.
Optional garnish:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’s worth the wait.
After the onions have softened, toss in the chopped carrots and celery. Stir everything around for another five minutes. Don’t forget to add the smoked paprika and garlic powder. Allow the spices to mingle with the vegetables for a minute or so—this will elevate the flavor profile.
Next, gradually pour in your chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble away for about 10 minutes. You want the veggies to become tender without losing their crunch.
Time to stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the pot. Taste the mixture here and add salt and pepper as needed. Now, let this delight simmer together for another five minutes to combine all those rich flavors.
Now, the star of the show—the frozen dumplings! Gently place them into the simmering broth. Do not stir. Instead, cover the pot and allow the dumplings to steam in the broth for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve doubled in size and are fluffy.
Remove the pot from the heat and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Scoop into bowls and serve with love.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish before adding the dumplings.
If you decide to freeze, be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before heating. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
Chicken and dumplings with frozen dumplings is your answer for a quick, comfy meal that pleases the whole family. The ease of preparation and versatility of ingredients make it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
With a few simple steps and some careful seasoning, you’re set to create a dish that not only warms you up but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. So grab those frozen dumplings from your freezer and give this recipe a whirl. Your taste buds will thank you!
When it comes to warmth in a bowl, few dishes can compete with chicken and dumplings. The combination of juicy chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Lauren Miller is a Maryland-based registered dietitian and the creator of Comfort Food Meals, where she shares easy, nutritious, and heartwarming recipes inspired by her love for comforting, home-cooked meals. With a focus on using wholesome ingredients, Lauren aims to balance indulgence with nutrition in every dish. Her goal is to help others create meals that nourish both body and soul.