Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

This chicken and dumplings casserole is the epitome of cozy, home-cooked goodness! 

Tender, shredded chicken and veggies are nestled under a layer of fluffy, pillowy dumplings. It’s pure magic! 

I love how easy this casserole comes together. The hardest part is waiting for it to bake while the incredible aroma fills my kitchen!

Trust me, you’ll want to add this deliciousness to your dinner rotation ASAP! It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

Easy Prep: This recipe simplifies the traditional process of making chicken and dumplings. It’s a quick and hassle-free option for a weeknight dinner.

Rich and Comforting Taste: The combination of shredded chicken, creamy soup, and fluffy dumplings creates a hearty and comforting meal. It’s perfect for cold days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying dish.

Minimal Cleanup: Since the entire dish is prepared and baked in one 9×13-inch baking dish, cleanup is minimal.

Versatile: This casserole can be served as a main course or as a side dish, making it versatile and convenient.

Ingredients

• Cooked, Shredded Chicken: The star of the show! Tender, juicy chicken adds heartiness and protein to this comforting casserole.
  
• Unsalted Butter: It creates a rich base and helps the chicken stay moist during baking.
  
• All-Purpose Flour: The key ingredient for fluffy, tender dumplings to soak up all the delicious flavors.
  
• Baking Powder: It provides the perfect amount of lift to ensure light, airy dumplings every time.
  
• Salt: Just a touch enhances all the savory flavors in this dish.
  
• Milk: It combines with the flour to create a thick, creamy batter for the dumplings.
  
• Chicken Broth: It adds depth of flavor and moisture to the casserole, making it extra comforting.
  
• Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: A secret weapon for creating a velvety, flavorful sauce.
  
• Frozen Peas and Carrots: They add a pop of freshness and nutrition to this classic comfort food.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

You’ll love how easily this casserole comes together! It’s a total breeze.

1. Prep the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. Prepare the baking dish. Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Distribute the shredded chicken over the melted butter in an even layer, followed by the thawed peas and carrots.

3. Make the dumpling batter. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk in the milk until a thick batter forms. Carefully pour the batter over the chicken, and cover it completely. Do not stir.

4. Prepare the soup mixture. In another bowl, mix the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Gently pour this mixture over the batter, again, covering it evenly. Do not stir.

5. Bake the casserole. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 40-50 minutes or until the dumplings are puffed up and golden brown on top.

6. Cool and serve. Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving hot. Enjoy your comforting chicken and dumplings casserole!

Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

This casserole is foolproof, but these tips make it totally irresistible. 

• Choose your favorite chicken. Use store-bought rotisserie chicken or home-cooked chicken. Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time, while home-cooked chicken allows for more control over seasoning and flavor.
  
• Toss in some herbs. Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the casserole for a pop of freshness and aromatic depth.
  
• Vary up the veggies. Add celery and onions in addition to peas and carrots to add color, texture, and nutritional value to your dish.
  
• Don’t overmix! For lighter, fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the batter. Also, for a more attractive topping, drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the casserole. Just be sure to do so evenly, covering the casserole completely.
  
• Thicken it up. If your casserole looks too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some cold water and stir it into the simmering broth to thicken it up.
  
• Take a shortcut. Use torn pieces of refrigerated biscuit dough instead of making dumplings from scratch.
  
• Variations. Add sautéed onions, celery, or herbs like thyme and parsley for additional flavor and nutrition.
  
• Make it a feast. For a balanced meal, serve the casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts.

How to Store

Leftovers reheat beautifully, so here’s how to keep them fresh.

To Store: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an air-tight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To Freeze: Cool the casserole completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To Reheat: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

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