Chicken And Dumplings Casserole

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Chicken And Dumplings Casserole is the kind of comforting, oven-baked dinner that brings everyone to the table fast. Tender chunks of chicken are tucked beneath a creamy, savory sauce and topped with fluffy, golden dumplings that bake up beautifully crisp on the outside while staying soft and pillowy underneath. Every spoonful delivers warmth, richness, and that classic homemade flavor people crave.

This dish takes everything you love about traditional chicken and dumplings and transforms it into an easy, family-style casserole. It’s hearty enough for chilly evenings, yet simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dependable meal that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken And Dumplings Casserole

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• Creamy, comforting texture with tender chicken in every bite
• Golden, fluffy dumpling topping baked to perfection
• Uses simple pantry staples
• Perfect for family dinners or potlucks
• Easy to prepare ahead of time
• Classic comfort food baked in one dish

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

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To prepare Chicken And Dumplings Casserole efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference. A sturdy 9×13-inch baking dish is essential for even cooking and proper layering. A sharp chef’s knife ensures clean, uniform cuts of chicken for consistent texture throughout the casserole. Mixing bowls are necessary for combining the creamy base and dumpling batter smoothly. A whisk helps eliminate lumps in the sauce mixture, creating that signature velvety consistency. Measuring cups and spoons guarantee balanced seasoning and accurate ingredient proportions. Finally, a silicone spatula or wooden spoon allows you to gently fold ingredients without overmixing.

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Preparation Tips

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For the best Chicken And Dumplings Casserole, use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time while adding extra flavor. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed in the baking dish so every portion has a balanced ratio of filling and dumplings. Avoid overmixing the dumpling batter, as this can make the topping dense instead of light and fluffy. Allow the casserole to rest for 10–15 minutes after baking so the sauce thickens properly before serving. Lightly greasing the baking dish also helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

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Ingredients for this Chicken And Dumplings Casserole

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For the Chicken Layer:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

For the Dumpling Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-Ins (For Extra Flavor and Texture):

• ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
• ¼ cup finely diced celery
• ¼ cup finely diced onion
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a richer topping)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving. If using vegetables such as onions or celery, finely dice them now so they cook evenly in the casserole.

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Step 2: Arrange the Chicken Base

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Spread the cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you’re adding vegetables like peas, carrots, celery, or onion, distribute them evenly over the chicken layer. Keeping everything evenly spread ensures consistent flavor in every bite.

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Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, melted butter, dried thyme, and dried parsley until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps. Slowly pour this mixture evenly over the chicken layer. Do not stir after pouring — this layering method helps create the perfect texture as it bakes.

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Step 4: Mix the Dumpling Batter

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In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the leavening agent. Add the milk and melted butter, then gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense dumplings. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

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Step 5: Add the Dumpling Layer

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Carefully pour the dumpling batter evenly over the sauce layer. Do not stir. The batter will float slightly as it bakes, forming a fluffy topping. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, slightly crispy finish.

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Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

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Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cooked through. The edges should be bubbling, and a toothpick inserted into the dumpling layer should come out clean.

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

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Step 7: Rest Before Serving

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Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and settle, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness and color before serving.

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Notes

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Chicken And Dumplings Casserole develops its best flavor and texture when baked steadily at the correct temperature without rushing the process. If you prefer a thicker filling, slightly reduce the chicken broth by ¼ cup. For a richer taste, substitute half-and-half for the milk in the sauce. You can also experiment with seasoning blends such as poultry seasoning or a pinch of paprika for extra depth. Keep in mind that oven temperatures may vary, so always check for doneness by ensuring the dumpling layer is fully set in the center before removing it from the oven.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

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One common mistake is stirring the layers after assembling the casserole. The layering method is essential for achieving the proper texture, allowing the dumpling batter to rise and form a soft, biscuit-like topping. Overmixing the dumpling batter can also lead to dense, heavy dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones. Using too much liquid may result in a runny casserole, so measure carefully. Additionally, underbaking can leave the center doughy, so always test the middle before serving. Lastly, skipping the resting time can cause the sauce to appear thinner than it actually is, as it thickens while cooling slightly.

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Storage Instructions

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Allow Chicken And Dumplings Casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Individual servings can also be reheated in the microwave, though the oven helps maintain the dumpling texture better.

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Estimated Nutrition

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Per serving (based on 6 servings, approximate values):

• Calories: 420–450 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and optional add-ins used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, but it must be fully cooked before assembling the casserole. Using raw chicken directly in the dish may result in uneven cooking and excess liquid.

2. Can I make Chicken And Dumplings Casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from cold.

3. What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Rotisserie chicken is especially convenient and flavorful.

4. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Peas, carrots, corn, green beans, and celery all complement the creamy filling beautifully.

5. Why is my dumpling topping dense?

Overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder can cause dense dumplings. Mix gently and check that your leavening agent is fresh.

6. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the dumpling layer should come out clean. The edges will be bubbling.

7. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour and ensure your cream soup is gluten-free.

8. What can I serve with Chicken And Dumplings Casserole?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans provide a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.

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Conclusion

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Chicken And Dumplings Casserole combines classic comfort with the ease of a baked, one-dish meal. Its creamy filling, tender chicken, and golden dumpling topping make it a dependable favorite for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this casserole delivers homemade flavor without complicated steps. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular addition to your meal rotation.

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