Chicken And Dumpling Casserole Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, hearty chicken and dumplings dish. But when you don’t have the time or patience to make dumplings from scratch or simmer everything on the stovetop, this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole offers an easier, equally delicious alternative. With layers of shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and a simple dumpling-like topping that forms in the oven, this casserole captures all the cozy flavors of the classic recipe without the fuss.

Read on to discover how to make this easy, mouthwatering casserole, as well as tips, substitutions, and more!

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What is a Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

A Chicken and Dumpling Casserole transforms the classic chicken and dumplings recipe into a convenient, layered casserole dish. Instead of rolling out dumplings or biscuits, this recipe uses a simple batter that forms a delicious, biscuit-like topping as it bakes. Beneath the golden crust, you’ll find tender, shredded chicken mixed with a savory, creamy sauce that ties the whole dish together. The result is a one-pan wonder that delivers all the comfort of chicken and dumplings with minimal effort.

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you crave the warmth of a comforting meal.

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Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

This easy-to-make casserole uses basic, pantry-friendly ingredients that you may already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Layer:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup butter (1 stick, melted)

For the Dumpling Layer:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Gravy Layer:

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon thyme (optional for extra flavor)

For Toppings (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Sautéed vegetables (like peas, carrots, or celery)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (if you prefer a cheesy version)

These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, savory casserole with tender chicken and a soft, biscuit-like topping that mimics dumplings. Feel free to adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is quite versatile, making it easy to adapt to different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to customize the recipe:

1. Chicken Substitutions:
   • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
   • You can also use cooked turkey for a post-holiday meal or if you want to switch things up.
2. Soup Variations:
   • If you prefer a homemade option, make your own cream of chicken soup by combining chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, and flour to thicken.
   • Substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
3. Add More Veggies:
   • Add frozen peas and carrots to the chicken layer to add a pop of color and nutrients.
   • Sautéed mushrooms, celery, or onions make great additions for a more flavorful casserole.
4. Dumpling Layer Variations:
   • For extra flavor, stir in herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme into the dumpling batter.
   • Add shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan to the dumpling mix for a cheesy version.
5. Broth Alternatives:
   • If you want a richer flavor, swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth or use bone broth for added nutrients.

These substitutions allow you to tailor the casserole to your preferences or dietary needs while still maintaining its comforting flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Follow these simple steps to make this comforting Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. The whole process is straightforward, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Layer

• Spread the shredded chicken evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Pour 1 cup of chicken broth over the chicken to keep it moist.
• Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken layer.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Batter

• In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until smooth. This will form the dumpling-like topping.
• Pour the batter evenly over the chicken layer, making sure it covers most of the chicken (it’s okay if it doesn’t spread perfectly).

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Gravy Layer

• In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup chicken broth, ½ cup milk, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and thyme if using.
• Gently pour the soup mixture over the dumpling batter layer, making sure not to stir.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dumpling layer is fully cooked (the dumplings should rise and form a biscuit-like crust).
• If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Once the casserole is finished baking, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the layers to set.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or other herbs if desired.
• Serve with your favorite side dishes or enjoy it as a complete meal!

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

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Chicken: Spread the shredded chicken in the dish and drizzle with broth and butter.
3. Prepare the Dumpling Batter: Whisk flour, milk, baking powder, and salt together, then pour it evenly over the chicken layer.
4. Mix the Creamy Gravy: Combine cream of chicken soup, broth, milk, and seasonings, and pour over the dumpling batter.
5. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dumpling layer is cooked through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Letting the Casserole Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.
2. Overmixing the Dumpling Batter: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid tough, dense dumplings. You want the batter to be light and fluffy.
3. Using Cold Chicken: Make sure the chicken is at room temperature or slightly warm when assembling the casserole. Cold chicken can affect how evenly the casserole bakes.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

While this casserole is a complete meal in itself, here are some ideas for serving it with complementary sides and presenting it beautifully:

1. Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad for a lighter side.
2. Add Vegetables: Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or peas to round out the meal.
3. Fresh Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or even a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for an elegant finishing touch.

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How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

• Main Dish: Serve this casserole as a stand-alone meal, scooping generous portions onto plates. It’s comforting, filling, and flavorful enough on its own.
• Family-Style: Place the casserole dish directly on the table for a family-style meal, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• With Biscuits: If you want extra bread for soaking up the creamy sauce, serve with warm, fluffy biscuits or crusty bread on the side.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

• Rustic Family-Style: Serve directly from the casserole dish for a rustic, cozy vibe that’s perfect for casual family dinners.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in shallow bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, and a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese if you like.
• Layered Glass Dish: If you want to showcase the layers, bake the casserole in a glass dish so the golden dumpling crust and creamy filling are visible from the sides.

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Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
2. Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it, but don’t bake. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken and Dumpling Casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
2. Can I freeze Chicken and Dumpling Casserole? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. What sides go well with Chicken and Dumpling Casserole? A light side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans are all great options to complement the richness of the casserole.

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Conclusion

This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a simple yet comforting meal that brings the classic flavors of chicken and dumplings to the table with minimal effort. It’s a hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners, weekend meals, or even potlucks. With its tender chicken, savory gravy, and golden, biscuit-like topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite veggies, herbs, and toppings!

Enjoy cooking and serving this comforting classic!

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