Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a creamy sauce that is sure to be a hit with the whole family. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Chicken and Dumpling Casserole that will make any day feel cozy and delightful.

I. Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)

• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, and green beans)

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 1/2 cup diced celery

• 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  

II. Instructions:

• Preparing the Casserole Filling:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

• Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper to the melted butter, and sauté until the vegetables are softened and translucent.

Making the Roux and Sauce:

• Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to create a roux.

• Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

• Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

• Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, and bring it to a gentle boil.

• Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.

Adding Chicken and Vegetables:

• Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen mixed vegetables into the creamy sauce, combining everything evenly.

• Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if needed.

Assembling the Casserole:

• Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Making the Dumplings:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings.

• Add the melted butter and milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.
  

Dropping the Dumplings:

• Using a tablespoon or ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the top of the casserole, evenly spacing them out.

Baking the Casserole:

• Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and golden brown.

Serving:

• Remove the Chicken and Dumpling Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Dish out generous portions of the casserole onto plates and savor the comforting flavors.

III. Serving Suggestions:

• Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the experience with:

• Freshly chopped parsley: Sprinkle some chopped parsley over the casserole for a pop of color and added freshness.

• Green salad: Serve the casserole with a side of green salad dressed with your favorite vinaigrette for a light and refreshing accompaniment.

IV. Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion:

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings together tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a creamy and flavorful sauce. This satisfying casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting and hearty meal. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this classic dish as it fills your home with the aroma of comfort and love.