Chicken and Dumplings with Creamy Gravy

Chicken and Dumplings with Creamy Gravy is the kind of nostalgic, heartwarming dish that brings comfort with every bite. Tender pieces of chicken simmered slowly in a velvety, rich gravy and paired with soft, fluffy dumplings make this recipe a true classic. It reminds many of old-fashioned home cooking, the type of meal shared around a warm dinner table on chilly evenings. The creamy sauce, the aroma of herbs, and the melt-in-your-mouth dumplings create a harmonious balance that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Why i love this recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with deep, satisfying flavor. Every step builds layers of richness—from simmering the chicken until tender to whisking a smooth, luscious gravy that clings perfectly to the dumplings. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers the next day.

This is a must try dish

This dish is a must-try because it captures everything great about comfort food. It's budget-friendly, made with pantry staples, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or simply craving a warm, soulful meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your home.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time : 20 minutes

Cooking Time : 1 hour

Total Time : 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings : 6 servings

Calories per Serving : Approximately 420 calories

Course : Main Course

Cuisine : American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Gravy

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup water (for slurry)

For the Dumplings

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

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the base by sautéing vegetables in butter and oil.
2. Add broth, herbs, and seasonings; simmer.
3. Stir in flour slurry and cream to make the gravy.
4. Add shredded chicken.
5. Mix dumpling dough until combined.
6. Drop dumplings onto simmering gravy.
7. Cover and cook until fluffy and cooked through.
8. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat butter and olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté 5 to 7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Step 2: Build the Gravy Base

Pour in chicken broth. Add thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Gravy

In a small bowl, whisk together flour and water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering broth while stirring constantly. Add milk or cream and continue stirring until the gravy thickens.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the dumplings.

Step 5: Make the Dumplings

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and pepper. Add cold butter and cut it into the flour using a fork or your fingers until crumbly. Pour in the milk and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Cook the Dumplings

Using a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the simmering gravy. Cover the pot with a tight lid and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes. Do not remove the lid while cooking to ensure fluffy dumplings.

Step 7: Final Touch

Check that the dumplings are cooked through. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove bay leaf, stir gently, and turn off heat.

How to Serve

Serve the chicken and dumplings hot in deep bowls to allow plenty of creamy gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix the dumpling dough; a slightly lumpy dough makes softer dumplings.
• For richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breast meat.
• If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
• Keeping the pot covered while the dumplings cook is essential for proper steam cooking.

Variations

• Herb Dumplings: Add fresh rosemary or chives to the dumpling dough.
• Cheesy Dumplings: Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar into the dough for a delicious twist.
• Vegetable Variation: Add peas, corn, mushrooms, or green beans for more texture and color.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the gravy for heat.
• Bisquick Dumplings: If you prefer convenience, use a premade biscuit mix for faster dumplings.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the chicken and gravy (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Dumplings tend to change texture when frozen, so make them fresh when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large heavy pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Spoon for dropping dumplings

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings with Creamy Gravy is a timeless dish that delivers comfort, warmth, and flavor in every spoonful. The creamy, herb-infused gravy paired with soft dumplings and tender chicken makes it an irresistible meal for any time of year. With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is easy to master and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making it, serving it, and sharing it with the ones you love.