Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that warms the soul, especially on chilly days. But what if you could make this hearty dish quickly and easily using canned biscuits? Yes, you read that right! Using refrigerated biscuit dough as your dumplings is a clever shortcut that delivers fluffy, tender dumplings without all the fuss. Let’s dive into how you can make delicious chicken and dumplings with biscuits in about 30 to 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Why Use Biscuits for Dumplings?
Traditional dumplings often require mixing flour, fat, and liquid to create dough, then carefully dropping spoonfuls into simmering broth. While delicious, it can be time-consuming. Using canned biscuits simplifies the process dramatically. These biscuits puff up beautifully in the broth, absorbing the savory flavors while remaining soft and pillowy. Plus, it’s a great way to save time without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a handy list of ingredients for a simple, tasty chicken and dumplings with biscuits recipe:
– 1 rotisserie chicken (skin and bones removed, meat shredded)
– 5 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 3 celery ribs, chopped
– 1 can refrigerated biscuits (about 8 biscuits; use 6 for dumplings)
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
If you want a creamier version, you can add butter, onions, flour, heavy cream, and seasonings like onion powder, sage, salt, and pepper.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Broth and Chicken Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken stock, shredded rotisserie chicken, cream of chicken soup, and poultry seasoning. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
2. Prepare the Biscuit Dumplings
While the broth simmers, take your refrigerated biscuits and gently flatten each one to about 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface. Then cut each biscuit into strips roughly 1/2-inch wide. This creates perfect bite-sized dumplings that cook evenly.
3. Cook the Dumplings in the Broth
Turn the heat back up to medium-high and bring the broth to a boil again. Carefully drop the biscuit strips into the boiling broth one at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Once all the biscuit pieces are in, add the chopped carrots and celery. Cover and reduce heat to low, letting everything simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir gently every 5 minutes to keep the dumplings from clumping together.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are tender and the vegetables are cooked through, ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings with Biscuits
– Use a rotisserie chicken to save time and add rich flavor. If you prefer, you can cook your own chicken breasts or thighs and shred them.
– Don’t use all the biscuits at once. Typically, six biscuits are enough for the dumplings. Bake the remaining two for a side or snack.
– Cut biscuits with a pizza cutter for clean, even strips.
– Add vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans to customize your meal.
– For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations to Try
– Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Sauté diced onions in butter, add flour to make a roux, then stir in chicken broth and heavy cream before adding the chicken and biscuits. This creates a luscious, creamy base.
– Spiced Up: Add herbs like thyme or sage and a bay leaf for extra depth of flavor.
– Vegetable Boost: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or green beans for a colorful, nutritious twist.
Chicken and dumplings with biscuits is a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on comfort. Whether you’re new to this Southern classic or looking for a speedy weeknight dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes—warm, hearty, and downright delicious.
Enjoy your cozy bowl of chicken and dumplings with fluffy biscuit dumplings tonight!
This recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and comfort, making it a family favorite in no time.