Chicken And Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family? This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is an easy, delicious take on a classic comfort dish. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft dumplings baked to perfection, it's the perfect dish for a cozy night in. Whether you're an experienced home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the process step by step. Keep reading to learn how to make this satisfying meal, complete with variations, tips, and presentation ideas!

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What is Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a modern twist on the traditional chicken and dumplings dish. Rather than simmering the dumplings in broth, everything is baked together in one dish, combining the flavors of a rich chicken stew with the convenience of a casserole. The dumplings bake on top of the chicken filling, creating a golden, crispy crust on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. It's a comfort food classic that combines creamy chicken and vegetables with the satisfying texture of baked dumplings.

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Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s a comprehensive list for the casserole:

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup diced onion
• ½ cup diced carrots
• ½ cup diced celery
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing vegetables)

For the Dumplings:

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

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Chicken: You can swap shredded chicken with leftover turkey, especially after Thanksgiving. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
2. Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer a homemade version, make a simple roux by melting 2 tablespoon of butter, whisking in 2 tablespoon of flour, and slowly adding 1 cup of milk and ½ cup of chicken broth until thickened.
3. Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or corn. You can also skip the peas if they're not your favorite.
4. Dumplings: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can also add herbs like parsley or chives to the dumpling batter for extra flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your Chicken and Dumpling Casserole from scratch.

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden top.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Combine Chicken Filling Ingredients:
   Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. If you’re adding peas, fold them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Transfer to a Casserole Dish:
   Pour the chicken filling into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
5. Prepare the Dumpling Batter:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a thick batter forms.
6. Top the Casserole with Dumplings:
   Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken filling. Space them evenly so they have room to expand as they bake.
7. Bake:
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown on top and cooked through. You can test the dumplings by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re done!
8. Cool and Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to scoop out portions.

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

1. Sauté vegetables in butter until softened.
2. Combine shredded chicken, soup, broth, and seasonings in the same pan.
3. Transfer the filling to a baking dish.
4. Mix dumpling ingredients and drop onto the filling.
5. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
6. Let rest before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Chicken and Dumpling Casserole might seem straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Undercooking the Dumplings:
   Dumplings that aren’t fully cooked can end up doughy in the center. Always check the doneness with a toothpick to ensure they’re cooked through.
2. Overloading with Vegetables:
   While veggies add flavor, adding too many can cause the filling to become watery. Stick to the suggested amounts or slightly adjust if needed.
3. Not Seasoning the Filling:
   A bland filling can ruin the dish. Be sure to season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs to bring out the best flavors in the chicken and vegetables.
4. Skipping Rest Time:
   Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking is essential. It helps the filling firm up and makes serving easier.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, even with a homey dish like Chicken and Dumpling Casserole! Here are some simple ways to elevate the look and appeal of your meal.

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
   Sprinkle fresh parsley, thyme, or chives over the top of the casserole for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve with a Side Salad:
   A light, crisp green salad pairs wonderfully with the richness of the casserole. A simple vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the creamy filling.
3. Use Individual Ramekins:
   For a dinner party or special occasion, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins. This not only looks elegant but also gives each person their own portion.
4. Crusty Bread on the Side:
   Serve the casserole with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.

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How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

When serving Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, use a large serving spoon to scoop out portions, ensuring each serving gets both the dumplings and the creamy chicken filling. Pair it with simple sides like a green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For a special occasion, you could even serve it with mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

• Rustic: Serve the casserole in the baking dish with a wooden spoon for a casual, family-style meal.
• Plated: Use individual plates, and arrange the dumpling portion on top of the chicken mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of gravy for a more refined presentation.
• Buffet Style: Keep the casserole warm in a chafing dish for larger gatherings, allowing guests to serve themselves. Offer toppings like shredded cheese or hot sauce on the side for added flair.

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Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Use Leftover Chicken:
   This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken. If you have a rotisserie chicken on hand, it makes the prep even quicker.
2. Make Ahead:
   You can prepare the chicken filling in advance and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, just top it with the dumpling batter and pop it in the oven.
3. Freeze for Later:
   This casserole freezes well. Prepare the chicken filling, freeze it in a casserole dish, and when ready to serve, thaw, top with fresh dumpling batter, and bake.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the chicken filling ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the dumpling batter and cook as directed.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?
A: Absolutely. Freeze the filling and then add the dumplings just before baking. Make sure to thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking.

Q: What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
A: You can make a homemade version by making a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, or you can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings, and make sure your cream of chicken soup and broth are gluten-free as well.

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Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. With its rich chicken filling, fluffy dumplings, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and versatile enough to suit any palate. Give it a try, experiment with different variations, and enjoy the comforting goodness of this delicious casserole!

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