Introduction
Chicken dumpling casserole is a comforting one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and cold nights, offering a warm, satisfying experience.
The History of Chicken Dumpling Casserole
This dish has roots in traditional American comfort food, blending influences from Southern cooking and homestyle meals. Casseroles became popular in the mid-20th century, allowing families to prepare hearty meals in one pot, making them convenient and nourishing.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded, it serves as the protein base.
- Vegetables: Common choices include carrots, peas, and celery for flavor and texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- Dumpling mix: Typically made from flour, baking powder, milk, and seasonings.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the dish.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks until softened. Add 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 2 cups of chicken broth; stir to combine.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Make the Dumplings: In a bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of milk until combined. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the chicken mixture.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until dumplings are golden.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up rotisserie or leftover chicken.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumplings: Mix just until combined for light, fluffy dumplings.
- Season Generously: Adjust seasonings to taste for a more flavorful dish.
Variations and Customizations
- Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheese for a creamy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth.
- Different Dumpling Flavors: Incorporate herbs or spices into the dumpling batter for added flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Chicken dumpling casserole can be a balanced meal, providing protein and vegetables. To lighten it:
- Use lean chicken and low-sodium broth.
- Add more vegetables for extra nutrients.
Nutritional Estimate (per serving)
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Q: Can I freeze chicken dumpling casserole?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I substitute for the dumplings?
A: Biscuit dough or even store-bought dumplings can be used as alternatives.
Chicken and Dumplings Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup sliced carrot
- ½ cup sliced celery
- 1 cube chicken bouillon or more to taste
- ⅓ cup butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ⅔ cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 16.3 ounce package refrigerated biscuit dough, separated
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a large baking dish.
- Combine chicken, carrot, celery, and bouillon in a large pot and add enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook until chicken is no longer pink in the centers, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain, reserving chicken and broth in another pot or bowl.
- Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat. Cook onion and garlic in the hot butter for 5 minutes. Stir in flour, poultry seasoning, basil, thyme, and pepper. Stir in chicken broth and milk slowly. Add chicken mixture and peas. Simmer over medium-low heat until thick, 10 to 15 minutes. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven until mixture is bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and place biscuits on top. Cover and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and continue baking until biscuits are golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes more.
