20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings: A Cozy Family Favorite

Hey there! If you’re looking for a cozy meal that won’t steal your entire evening, then let me introduce you to my 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings! This recipe is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, it’s so quick and easy that you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

This dish has become a family favorite because it combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy sauce that warms you from the inside out. I love that I can whip it up in no time, and it always brings smiles around the dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to switch up ingredients based on what I have on hand. So, let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make my quick and delicious 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings. Grab these simple ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to a cozy meal in no time!

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor!)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (the creamy base that makes everything come together)
• 1 cup chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, it’s all good!)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (no chopping required—yay for convenience!)
• 1 cup biscuit mix (this is what gives us those fluffy dumplings)
• 1/2 cup milk (for that perfect biscuit texture)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (it adds a lovely hint of flavor)

That’s it! These ingredients are simple, but together they create a comforting dish that’s just bursting with flavor. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this comforting dish! It’s actually quite simple and comes together in just a few steps. Here’s how I do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, grab a large pot and combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. This is where the magic begins!
2. Place the pot over medium heat and bring everything to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to stir occasionally to keep things from sticking to the bottom—nobody likes a burnt flavor!
3. While that’s simmering away and making your kitchen smell incredible, it’s time to make the dumplings. In a separate bowl, mix the biscuit mix, milk, and dried thyme. Just stir until everything is combined; don’t overdo it!
4. Once the chicken mixture is bubbling, drop spoonfuls of the biscuit mixture right into the simmering sauce. This is where they’ll puff up and soak up all the delicious flavors!
5. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This is crucial—don’t peek too often! You want those dumplings to steam and cook through.
6. After 10 minutes, check to make sure the dumplings are cooked through, and then it’s time to serve! Ladle into bowls while it’s hot, and enjoy!

This entire process is so quick, and the best part is that you can have a hearty, satisfying meal in just 20 minutes! Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Tips for Success

To make sure your 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings turn out perfect every time, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way. First, using rotisserie chicken is a game changer! It saves time and adds so much flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding more vegetables like peas or carrots for a pop of color and nutrition—don’t worry about cutting them up; frozen ones work just as well!

Also, taste as you go! Adjusting the seasoning is key, so feel free to sprinkle in a bit more thyme or even a dash of garlic powder if you’re feeling fancy. And remember, the dumpling mix should be just combined—overmixing can lead to dense dumplings, and nobody wants that. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a comforting family meal that everyone will love!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it. I love to keep it simple and cozy, so here are a few of my favorite ideas!

• Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dumplings.
• Garlic Bread: Who can resist a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple, quick, and nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a lovely pop of color and balances the richness of the dish.
• Homemade Biscuits: If you want to go all out, serve some warm homemade biscuits on the side for an extra treat!

These sides not only complement the flavors of the chicken and dumplings but also make for a well-rounded meal that your family will savor!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

When it comes to the nutritional information for my 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings, keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. Things like the type of chicken broth or cream of chicken soup can make a difference! While I’ve provided some general estimates, I recommend calculating the nutrition based on your personal choices and any adjustments you make. This way, you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind, knowing it fits your dietary needs!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh vegetables?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be substituted in my 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook quickly. If you’re using fresh carrots or green beans, for instance, you might want to sauté them in the pot for a couple of minutes before adding the chicken mixture to give them a head start. This way, everything will cook evenly, and you’ll still get that delightful texture!

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for alternatives to cream of chicken soup, you’ve got options! You can make a homemade version using a roux of butter, flour, and chicken broth, then add in some cream or milk for richness. Alternatively, you can use other canned soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery, which will give you a slightly different flavor but still work wonderfully in this dish!

How can I make this dish healthier?

There are plenty of ways to lighten up my 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings! You could opt for low-fat cream of chicken soup, which cuts down on calories without sacrificing flavor. Adding more mixed vegetables is another great trick—just toss in extra peas, corn, or even spinach to boost the nutrition. Lastly, consider using skinless chicken breast instead of dark meat to lower the fat content. These small changes can make a big difference while keeping the comfort you love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

My 20-Minute Chicken and Dumplings is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl! Here’s why this quick recipe has become a staple in my kitchen:

• Speedy Preparation: It comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for those hectic nights!
• Comforting Flavors: The creamy chicken and fluffy dumplings create a warm, satisfying dish that everyone loves.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty meal, making it a hit for the whole family.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand, so it’s easy to whip up anytime.
• Versatile: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings—make it your own!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights!

Print