Irresistible Chicken and Dumplings Casserole Recipe – A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a warm, creamy Chicken and Dumplings Casserole. This dish is a hearty blend of tender shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory peas and carrots, all baked to golden perfection. The best part? It’s so good you’ll find yourself going back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this casserole is the ultimate way to bring comfort to the table.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I stumbled across this gem of a recipe on Insanely Good Recipes and knew I had to share it with you. The first time I made it, the rich, savory flavors blew me away, and I knew this recipe was a keeper. After just one bite, it became a regular in my kitchen, perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying and simple.

Follow me for more delicious recipes like this one, and be sure to check out Insanely Good Recipes for the original inspiration.

A Bit of History

Chicken and dumplings is a dish rooted in Southern comfort food tradition. While the classic version involves simmering dumplings in a pot of broth, this casserole variation gives you all the nostalgic flavors with half the effort. The concept of combining tender chicken with soft, pillowy dumplings has been around for centuries, bringing comfort to households for generations. This baked version simplifies the process while still delivering all the warmth and coziness you crave.

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a perfect combination of creamy and fluffy textures in every bite. Plus, it comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups milk
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 can unsalted cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
   This will ensure the casserole bakes evenly and the dumplings puff up beautifully.
2. Prepare the dish: Pour the melted butter into a 9x13-inch baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed across the bottom. Layer the shredded chicken on top, followed by the thawed peas and carrots.
3. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the milk, whisking until a thick, smooth batter forms. Pour this over the chicken and vegetables, spreading it evenly. Resist the urge to stir—it’s important to let the layers sit undisturbed for the perfect texture.
4. Mix the soup and broth: In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Carefully pour this mixture over the batter, covering it completely. Again, do not stir.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dumplings have puffed up.
6. Cool and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the dumplings a chance to settle and the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika on top just before serving. You can also add a layer of shredded cheese on top for a richer taste.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for cooked, shredded jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetable broth and a cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in some additional vegetables like corn or green beans for extra texture and flavor.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic reheated, so don’t hesitate to make extra!

Conclusion: Did You Love This Recipe?

If you loved this Chicken and Dumplings Casserole recipe, let me know in the comments below! Share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to follow for more mouthwatering comfort food recipes like this one. Happy cooking!