Chicken and Dumplings With Rotisserie Chicken

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Dumplings With Rotisserie Chicken Recipe

• Ready in only 35 minutes from start to finish.
• Uses convenient rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
• Features soft, fluffy homemade dumplings.
• Loaded with wholesome vegetables and savory flavors.
• Perfect for feeding a family with minimal effort.
• Made with simple pantry staples.
• Comfort food that’s satisfying any time of year.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken stew:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 carrots, cut into coins
• 4 cups water
• 4 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon chicken base
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2–3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning

For the dumplings:

• 1 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup milk, warmed

Directions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl or medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the chicken bouillon base until fully dissolved.
2. In a large Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, and poultry seasoning.
4. Pour the prepared bouillon mixture into the Dutch oven and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons flour with 3 tablespoons melted butter to form a paste. Whisk this mixture into the simmering broth until it thickens.
6. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and continue cooking over low heat.
7. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt for the dumplings.
8. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture becomes crumbly.
9. Add the warmed milk and stir just until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
10. Drop small spoonfuls of dough onto the simmering stew.
11. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
12. Serve hot and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add frozen peas or corn during the final few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.
• Use turkey instead of chicken for a delicious post-holiday meal.
• Add fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or rosemary for enhanced flavor.
• Substitute half-and-half for some of the broth if you prefer an even creamier stew.
• Add a pinch of black pepper or cayenne for a little extra warmth.
• Use whole wheat flour in the dumplings for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dumplings may absorb some of the broth as they sit, causing the stew to thicken.

For longer storage, freeze the stew without the dumplings for up to 3 months. Fresh dumplings can be prepared when reheating for the best texture.

To reheat, warm the stew gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to thin the consistency. Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, any cooked and shredded chicken works well in this recipe.

Why are my dumplings dense instead of fluffy?

Overmixing the dough can make the dumplings dense. Stir only until the ingredients are combined.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the stew can be made ahead and refrigerated. For the best texture, prepare the dumplings fresh when serving.

Do I need a Dutch oven?

No, any large heavy-bottomed pot with a lid will work.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Peas, corn, green beans, and mushrooms are excellent additions.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings should be puffed up and cooked through after about 15 minutes of covered simmering.

Can I use store-bought biscuit dough for the dumplings?

Yes, biscuit dough can be used as a shortcut, though homemade dumplings provide the best texture.

What can I use instead of Better Than Bouillon?

You can substitute 4 cups of prepared chicken broth or stock.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but the dumplings may soften after thawing. Freezing the stew separately is recommended.

How can I make the broth thicker?

Whisk together a little flour and melted butter or create a cornstarch slurry and stir it into the simmering broth.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings With Rotisserie Chicken is a simple, comforting meal that delivers homemade flavor with minimal effort. Tender vegetables, savory chicken, and fluffy dumplings come together in a rich broth for a satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish for cooler days, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.