Chicken and dumplings are the epitome of Southern comfort food, a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Traditionally, it’s a rich, hearty stew with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered to perfection. This Chicken & Dumpling Casserole offers a modern twist on the classic, transforming it into an easy, one-pan dish that’s perfect for a family meal. Imagine all the flavors of traditional chicken and dumplings baked into a golden, bubbly casserole that’s as satisfying as it is convenient. This dish takes the comfort of the classic and elevates it with a crispy, golden topping and a creamy, flavorful filling.

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The origins of chicken and dumplings can be traced back to early American settlers who needed to make the most of simple ingredients. Over time, this humble dish became a staple in Southern kitchens, where it was loved for its ability to feed a crowd and its comforting, hearty nature. This casserole version captures the essence of that tradition while making the preparation easier for modern cooks. The casserole combines tender chunks of chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a layer of golden dumplings that bake to perfection in the oven.

This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and comforting. The combination of creamy filling and crispy topping makes every bite a delight, and the simplicity of the recipe means you can enjoy all the flavors of chicken and dumplings with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this Chicken & Dumpling Casserole is sure to become a favorite.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve this Chicken & Dumpling Casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

- For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving.

- Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or a comforting cup of hot tea for the perfect cozy dinner.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• • Calories: 450  
  • Total Fat: 20g  
  • Saturated Fat: 10g  
  • Cholesterol: 85mg  
  • Sodium: 880mg  
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42g  
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g  
  • Sugars: 6g  
  • Protein: 28g

Storage Information:

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Chicken & Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:  

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded  
• 1 cup diced celery  
• 1 cup diced carrots  
• 1 cup frozen peas  
• 1 small onion, diced  
• 2 cups chicken broth  
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup  
• 1/2 cup whole milk  
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder  
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder  
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumpling Topping:  

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour  
• 1 tablespoon baking powder  
• 1/2 teaspoon salt  
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme  
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper  
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed  
• 3/4 cup whole milk

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, carrots, frozen peas, and diced onion. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the baking dish.

4. In another bowl, prepare the dumpling topping by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, dried thyme, and black pepper. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Gradually stir in the milk until a thick batter forms. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the chicken mixture in the baking dish, spreading it out slightly to cover most of the surface.

6. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the dumpling topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

7. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Chicken & Dumpling Casserole is the perfect blend of Southern comfort and modern convenience, offering all the warmth and flavor of the classic dish in a simple, satisfying bake. Enjoy the creamy filling and crispy dumpling topping, and savor the taste of home-cooked goodness in every bite.