Why You’ll Love this Cozy Chicken & Dumplings
Three reasons make this chicken and dumplings recipe an absolute must-try for your dinner rotation.
First, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition, using low-fat ingredients without sacrificing that rich, homey taste we all crave.
Second, the simplicity is mind-blowing—just chop, simmer, and drop in those dumplings. No culinary degree required.
Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. Can’t find reduced-fat broth? Regular works too. Want to add peas or mushrooms? Go for it.
I love how this recipe welcomes personalization while maintaining its cozy character. Comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down? Yes, please.
What Ingredients are in Cozy Chicken & Dumplings?
The beauty of chicken and dumplings is how simple yet satisfying the ingredient list can be. This recipe strikes that perfect balance between comfort food indulgence and healthier eating, using reduced-fat alternatives to keep things lighter without sacrificing that rich, homey flavor we all crave when we’re looking for a bowl of something warm and soothing.
The ingredients blend together to create layers of savory goodness, with the vegetables adding nutrition and the soup creating that signature creamy texture.
- 2 (10 ounce) cans low-fat cream of chicken soup
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 (14 ounce) can reduced-fat chicken broth
- Reduced-fat Bisquick baking mix (for the dumplings)
When shopping for these ingredients, you might consider a few smart substitutions or additions. Can’t find reduced-fat chicken broth? Regular works fine, though it adds a few more calories.
Want to enhance the flavor profile? A clove of minced garlic wouldn’t hurt. And while the recipe keeps things traditional with carrots, onion, and celery (the classic mirepoix), don’t be afraid to toss in some frozen peas or corn in the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
The Bisquick mix makes the dumplings foolproof, but if you’re feeling ambitious, you could always make dumpling dough from scratch.
How to Make this Cozy Chicken & Dumplings
Preparing this comforting bowl of goodness starts with some simple prep work. Begin by chopping up your 2 medium carrots, 1/2 cup of onion, and 2 celery ribs into bite-sized pieces. Then cut your 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts into chunks—I like them about an inch square, but you can go larger or smaller depending on your preference. This upfront prep makes the rest of the cooking process flow much more smoothly, and who doesn’t love the colorful cutting board display of fresh vegetables ready to transform into something delicious? Using a professional food processor can significantly speed up your vegetable prep time for this recipe while ensuring uniform pieces.
Next comes the actual cooking, which is wonderfully straightforward. Cook those chicken chunks and veggies in a large pot until everything is tender—about 10-15 minutes over medium heat should do the trick.
Once they’re ready, it’s time to create that signature creamy base by adding your 2 cans of low-fat cream of chicken soup and 14-ounce can of reduced-fat chicken broth. Season the mixture with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and don’t forget to toss in a bay leaf for that subtle depth of flavor. Let this mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, giving all those flavors time to get acquainted.
Remember to fish out the bay leaf before the next step—no one wants to bite into that unexpected surprise!
For the crowning glory—those fluffy dumplings that make this dish what it is—simply follow the directions on your package of reduced-fat Bisquick baking mix. Typically, this involves mixing the Bisquick with some milk until you have a soft dough, then dropping spoonfuls onto the simmering (not boiling) surface of your chicken mixture.
Cover the pot and let those dumplings steam for about 10 minutes without peeking—that’s the hardest part, honestly. When they’re puffed up and cooked through, you’re ready to serve your creation in deep bowls, maybe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
The contrast between the tender, fluffy dumplings and the rich, savory chicken stew underneath? Pure comfort in every spoonful.
Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Substitutions and Variations
While classic chicken and dumplings offers timeless comfort, this recipe welcomes countless adaptations to suit your pantry and preferences.
Don’t have Bisquick? Try making dumplings with flour, baking powder, and a touch of butter.
Vegetarian-inclined? Swap chicken for mushrooms and vegetable broth for a hearty meatless version. I’m particularly fond of adding frozen peas during the last five minutes for a pop of color and sweetness.
Need gluten-free options? Rice flour dumplings work beautifully. For deeper flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage.
Rotisserie chicken can be your time-saving secret weapon on busy weeknights. Pure comfort food magic.
What to Serve with Cozy Chicken & Dumplings
Now that we’ve explored the many ways to adapt this comforting classic, let’s consider what accompaniments will round out your chicken and dumplings meal.
This hearty dish is practically a one-pot wonder, but I like to add a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Think arugula or mixed greens with a lemon dressing. A side of roasted green beans or steamed broccoli can add color and nutrition to your plate.
For something slightly decadent, warm crusty bread works beautifully for sopping up that velvety broth.
Can you imagine a better comfort food pairing?
Final Thoughts
After making this cozy chicken and dumplings recipe countless times, I’m convinced it represents comfort food at its finest. There’s something magical about those pillowy Bisquick dumplings floating in rich, creamy broth with tender chicken and vegetables.
What I love most is how this recipe proves comfort food doesn’t need excessive calories. By using low-fat soup, reduced-fat broth, and Bisquick’s lighter mix, you’re getting all the warmth without the guilt.
The simplicity amazes me, too. Just a handful of ingredients, minimal prep, and you’re rewarded with a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Comfort food perfection, wouldn’t you agree?
