Name: Chicken & Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons avocado or olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 quarts chicken broth; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 2 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed; 1 cup milk; Additional flour for rolling

Jump to Recipe

Old Fashioned Chicken & Dumplings brings everything you love about classic comfort food into one warm, satisfying bowl. Tender shredded chicken simmers in rich chicken broth, while soft flat dumplings soak up every bit of flavor. This timeless dish feels hearty, simple, and deeply satisfying. If you crave traditional Chicken and Dumplings with authentic Flat Dumplings instead of drop-style dough, this recipe delivers. It’s practical, straightforward, and designed for real home kitchens. Once you make this Old Fashioned version, it will quickly become your favorite go-to Comfort Food dinner.

Story

I grew up watching Chicken & Dumplings simmer gently on the stove while the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of homemade broth. My family always preferred Old Fashioned flat dumplings over the fluffy drop kind, so we rolled the dough thin and cut it into rustic squares. That simple process turned basic pantry ingredients into a deeply satisfying bowl of Chicken & Dumplings every time.

What makes this version special is its balance. The tender shredded chicken blends perfectly into the thickened chicken broth, while the flat dumplings absorb flavor as they cook. Unlike complicated variations, this Chicken & Dumplings recipe keeps the focus on technique and texture. As the dumplings simmer, they thicken the broth naturally, creating a rich base without cream or heavy additives.

Because this dish relies on simple steps, anyone can master Chicken & Dumplings with confidence. Once you taste how the dumplings soak up the broth, you’ll understand why this traditional method remains a staple in American kitchens.

Ingredients

2–3 chicken breasts (about 3 cups cooked, shredded)
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 quarts chicken broth
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed
1 cup milk
Additional all-purpose flour for rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts on the sheet, drizzle with oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once fully cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Meanwhile, pour the chicken broth into a large pot and warm it over medium heat. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Add the cold cubed butter and work it into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles small pebbles. Stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.

Cooking Instructions

Dust your countertop with flour and roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking. Cut the dough into small squares using a knife or pizza cutter, then lightly dust them with flour. Bring the broth to a boil and stir in the shredded chicken. Add the dumplings one at a time, stirring frequently so they do not stick together. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The broth will thicken naturally as the dumplings cook and absorb flavor. Taste a dumpling to confirm it no longer has a doughy center, then serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid rolling the dough too thin, as overly thin dumplings can break apart in the broth. Do not skip dusting them with flour, since that extra coating helps prevent sticking and thickens the broth properly. Also, resist the urge to overcrowd the pot. Adding dumplings slowly keeps them separate and evenly cooked. Finally, confirm the chicken reaches 165°F before shredding to maintain food safety and ideal texture.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper flavor, season your broth before adding dumplings and taste as you go. Fresh cracked black pepper adds subtle warmth without overpowering the dish. If you prefer added texture, stir in peas and carrots during the final five minutes of cooking. Let the finished Chicken & Dumplings rest for a few minutes before serving so the broth settles into a rich consistency.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve this Chicken & Dumplings hot in wide bowls so the dumplings stay coated in broth. Pair it with a simple side salad or warm bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color without distracting from the traditional flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the thickened base and warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

If you want classic Chicken & Dumplings made the traditional way, this Old Fashioned recipe delivers consistent results every time. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft flat dumplings create a balanced dish that feels satisfying without unnecessary complexity. Try it once, and you will add it to your regular comfort dinner rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of baking chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply shred about three cups of cooked chicken and add it directly to the simmering broth before adding dumplings.

Why are my dumplings still doughy in the center?

Doughy centers usually mean the dumplings need more simmering time. Keep the broth at a gentle boil and cook for the full 15 to 20 minutes, then test one before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken & Dumplings?

You can freeze it, but the dumplings may soften further after thawing. For best texture, freeze only the broth and chicken, then prepare fresh dumplings when reheating.