Chicken And Dumpling Casserole Recipe

If you're craving a warm, comforting dish that combines savory flavors and hearty ingredients, you're in the right place. Chicken and dumpling casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a dish that blends tender chicken, rich gravy, and fluffy dumplings all in one dish. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is an easy and delicious way to serve up a cozy meal. Stick around to learn how to make this classic casserole from scratch, avoid common mistakes, and present it in a way that will impress your family and guests!

What Is Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Chicken and dumpling casserole is a baked version of the traditional stovetop chicken and dumplings. Instead of simmering on the stove, all the ingredients are layered and baked in the oven. This results in a dish that has a thicker texture and offers a delicious balance of moist chicken, soft dumplings, and flavorful gravy. It's a one-pan meal that’s easy to make but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need a combination of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: About 3 to 4 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken or poach your own.
• Vegetables: A blend of frozen or fresh vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green beans. You’ll need about 1 ½ to 2 cups.
• Bisquick or self-rising flour: 1 ½ cups for the dumpling layer.
• Butter: ½ cup melted for added flavor and richness.
• Chicken broth: 2 to 3 cups to form the gravy base.
• Milk: 1 cup of whole milk or cream to make the dumplings soft and tender.
• Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) to thicken the gravy.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme to taste.

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to modify this chicken and dumpling casserole to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick and ensure that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
• Low-Fat Version: Opt for low-fat cream of chicken soup, and use skim milk instead of whole milk.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to give the dish a unique flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for those who enjoy a spicy touch to their comfort food.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make a chicken and dumpling casserole, step by step. It’s a simple, no-fuss process that yields incredible results.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, start by cooking the chicken. Poach it in a pot of water with some salt and pepper, or bake it in the oven until fully cooked. Once done, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined.
4. Prepare the Dumpling Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the Bisquick (or self-rising flour) with milk and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth batter—this will be the dumpling topping for your casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the dish, making sure the vegetables are well distributed. Then pour the dumpling batter evenly on top, spreading it out gently with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dumpling layer is fully cooked through. If you want the top to be extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

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

Cooking a chicken and dumpling casserole involves three major steps: preparing the filling, making the dumplings, and assembling everything for baking. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor combination.

1. Prepare the Filling: You’ll start by cooking and shredding the chicken. Then, mix the chicken with vegetables, soup, and seasonings to create a thick, savory filling.
2. Make the Dumplings: These soft, biscuit-like toppings are essential. Mix Bisquick or a similar baking mix with milk and butter to create the batter. The key is to ensure that the batter is smooth so that the dumplings rise and become fluffy when baked.
3. Bake Until Perfect: Once everything is assembled, bake the casserole until golden brown. The gravy will thicken, the dumplings will puff up, and the chicken will absorb all the savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Like any recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken before it goes into the casserole. The casserole will continue to cook in the oven, so dry chicken can be a result if it's overcooked at the beginning.
• Watery Gravy: If the chicken broth you’re using is too thin, your gravy might end up too watery. If this happens, add a little extra cream of chicken soup to thicken it up.
• Dense Dumplings: Avoid over-mixing the dumpling batter, as this can result in dense, tough dumplings. Mix the batter just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Uneven Baking: Make sure to spread the dumpling batter evenly across the top of the casserole. This ensures that the entire dish bakes uniformly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This hearty casserole is a complete meal, but there are ways to elevate its presentation and serving experience. Consider adding a few extra elements to make your chicken and dumpling casserole truly shine.

How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Serve this casserole straight from the oven while it’s still piping hot. The dish pairs well with light sides such as a green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple garlic bread. You can also drizzle a little extra gravy or melted butter over the top for added richness.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or chives adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Serve in Individual Ramekins: For a more refined presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This makes for an elegant presentation, especially when serving guests.
• Crispy Topping: Add texture by sprinkling the top of the casserole with a bit of bread crumbs or crushed crackers before baking. This will give the dish a beautiful golden, crispy layer.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

To make sure your chicken and dumpling casserole turns out perfect, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This helps the gravy thicken and makes it easier to slice and serve.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish. Leftovers reheat well and are just as delicious the next day.
• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze chicken and dumpling casserole?
A: Yes! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q: How can I make the casserole more flavorful?
A: You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed onions and garlic to the filling, or by using a richer broth and herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Q: Can I use canned biscuits instead of making dumplings from scratch?
A: Absolutely! Canned biscuits are a great shortcut. Simply place them on top of the casserole before baking, and cook until golden brown.

Conclusion

Chicken and dumpling casserole is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft, fluffy dumplings, it’s a meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you're making it for a cozy dinner or sharing it with loved ones at a gathering, this casserole is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Don't forget to experiment with variations and make it your own! Enjoy!

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