Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and satisfies the whole family? Look no further than Chicken and Dumpling Casserole! This creamy, savory casserole combines tender chicken, vegetables, a rich gravy, and fluffy biscuit dumplings, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a hearty dish that brings the flavors of classic chicken and dumplings into a convenient, all-in-one meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Stick around for the full recipe, tips, and more!

What is Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make twist on the classic southern comfort food, chicken and dumplings. Instead of making individual dumplings and simmering them in a pot, this casserole bakes the entire dish in one pan. Tender chicken is combined with a rich and creamy sauce, then topped with biscuit dough or a batter to create fluffy dumplings that soak up the sauce as they bake. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made in under an hour, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

To make a classic Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced): You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups): Adds flavor and moisture to the casserole.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This adds creaminess and richness to the dish. You can use low-sodium or make your own homemade version.
• Milk (1 cup): For making the dumpling topping and keeping the casserole creamy.
• Bisquick or Baking Mix (1 cup): This will be used to make the dumplings. You can also use a homemade biscuit mix if preferred.
• Butter (¼ cup, melted): Adds richness and helps create a golden-brown topping.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 cup, thawed): Peas, carrots, and corn are common options. You can use fresh vegetables if desired.
• Onion (1 small, diced): Adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For extra flavor.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning the chicken mixture and dumplings.
• Optional Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added for extra flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some substitutions and variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based chicken substitute. Use vegetable broth and a cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix for the dumplings, and make sure your cream of chicken soup and broth are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a dairy-free spread or oil.
• Different Meat Options: You can substitute cooked turkey, ham, or even sausage for the chicken if desired.
• Extra Vegetables: Add more veggies like green beans, celery, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Chicken and Dumpling Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the thawed mixed vegetables and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Combine the chicken and sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs. Stir well to combine and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Make the dumpling batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Bisquick (or baking mix), milk, and melted butter until just combined. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, similar to pancake batter.
5. Layer the dumpling batter: Pour or spoon the dumpling batter evenly over the chicken mixture in the casserole dish. Don’t worry if the batter doesn’t cover the entire dish—it will spread as it bakes.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the dumpling topping is golden brown and cooked through. The casserole should be bubbly around the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the dumplings should come out clean.
7. Let it rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to scoop out portions.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs if desired, and serve warm.

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

Here’s a quick summary of how to make Chicken and Dumpling Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, and mixed vegetables in a skillet.
3. Mix the cooked chicken, broth, cream of chicken soup, and vegetables, then transfer to a casserole dish.
4. Prepare the dumpling batter using Bisquick, milk, and butter.
5. Pour the batter over the chicken mixture and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
6. Let the casserole rest, then serve warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple dish like Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results:

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing the dumpling batter can make the topping tough instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not covering the chicken mixture evenly: While the dumpling batter will spread during baking, try to distribute it as evenly as possible over the chicken mixture for consistent results.
• Using too much liquid: Be careful not to add too much chicken broth or milk, as this can make the casserole runny. Stick to the recipe quantities for the best texture.
• Overbaking the casserole: Watch the casserole closely in the last 10 minutes of baking. Overbaking can cause the dumplings to dry out or become too hard.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the presentation and flavors with a few simple additions:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top of the casserole for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Serve with a side: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of gravy: For an extra indulgent touch, serve the casserole with a small ladle of chicken gravy on the side.

How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

This hearty casserole is perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Weeknight Dinner: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, family-style, for an easy weeknight meal.
• Comfort Food Gathering: This dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or Sunday family dinners. You can make it ahead and bake it when ready to serve.
• Lunch Leftovers: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

• Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic look, bake and serve the casserole in a cast iron skillet.
• Individual Servings: Bake the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation, perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
• Herb Garnish: Top the casserole with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to give it an inviting and fresh look.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the dumpling batter and bake when ready.
• Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well. Cool the casserole completely, portion it into individual servings, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different spices or herbs like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika to customize the flavor of your casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned biscuits for the dumplings?
A: Yes! If you prefer, you can use canned biscuit dough instead of Bisquick. Cut the biscuits into quarters and place them over the chicken mixture before baking.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the chicken mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the dumpling batter just before baking.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Once baked, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I prevent the dumplings from getting soggy?
A: Ensure that the casserole is baked until the dumplings are golden brown and fully cooked. Avoid adding too much liquid to the chicken mixture, as this can make the dumplings soggy.

Q: How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
A: Leftover Chicken and Dumpling Casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy biscuit dumplings into a single, delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, follow our tips for perfect results, and enjoy a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to make. Try this recipe today and savor the warm, comforting flavors!

Print