Name: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Butter; 1 small Onion, diced; ½ cup Carrot, diced; ½ cup Celery, diced; 1 clove Garlic, minced; ¼ cup All-purpose Flour; 3 cups Chicken Broth; 1 (10.5-ounce) can Cream of Chicken Soup; 2 cups Cooked Cubed Chicken; 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme; 1 (16-ounce) can Flaky Biscuits

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Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that reminds me of family gatherings and cozy nights at home. I still recall the first time I tasted this delightful casserole at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of buttery biscuits and savory chicken filled the air. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the heart and makes every bite feel like a hug. When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories about our day while savoring this wonderful meal. The combination of hearty ingredients, the soft, fluffy biscuits, and the rich, creamy sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

As I started to make this dish myself, it became a family tradition to whip up a batch of Chicken and Dumpling Casserole whenever we needed a little comfort. It’s so versatile: I can make it quickly on a weeknight or prepare a larger batch for a family gathering. I love how the dish transforms as it bakes, with the biscuits rising and getting golden brown on top, while the chicken and vegetables meld together beautifully underneath. This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a way to create lasting memories with the people I cherish.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Oven, Large Pot, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

Why You Need This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Comfort Food at Its Finest

There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm casserole, and Chicken and Dumpling Casserole truly delivers on that front. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, perfect for cold winter evenings.

Easy and Quick Preparation

One of the best things about this casserole is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want to get dinner on the table without a fuss.

Family-Friendly Meal

This dish is always a hit with kids, making it perfect for families. The combination of chicken and fluffy biscuits appeals to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Make-Ahead Option

If you’re planning a big family gathering or just want to have a meal ready for a busy week, this casserole is an excellent make-ahead option. You can assemble everything in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Versatile Ingredients

You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether it’s using leftover chicken, adding your favorite vegetables, or even changing up the biscuits, this casserole can adapt to your tastes and pantry.

Perfect for Freezing

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole makes a fantastic freezer meal. Prepare it as directed, freeze it without baking, and then pop it in the oven when you’re in need of a quick meal. It’s such a lifesaver!

Main Ingredients for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

The ingredients in Chicken and Dumpling Casserole come together to create a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a vital role, working in harmony to deliver a comforting and satisfying meal. The key players in this dish are the chicken, which provides protein and a savory base, and the biscuits, which give that fluffy, comforting finish. With a rich broth and fresh vegetables, this casserole is not only delicious but also nourishing.

Butter: 4 tablespoons of butter adds richness and flavor, creating a perfect base for sautéing the vegetables.
Onion: 1 small onion, diced, brings sweetness and depth to the dish as it cooks down.
Carrot: ½ cup of diced carrot adds color and a slightly sweet crunch, balancing the savory components.
Celery: ½ cup of diced celery adds a fresh, crisp texture and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic: 1 clove of garlic, minced, infuses the casserole with a warm, aromatic essence.
Flour: ¼ cup of all-purpose flour thickens the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency that coats the other ingredients beautifully.
Chicken Broth: 3 cups of chicken broth serves as the flavorful liquid base, enriching the casserole with savory notes.
Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup adds creaminess and additional chicken flavor, making the dish extra comforting.
Cooked Chicken: 2 cups of cooked cubed chicken provides protein and a hearty element to the casserole.
Thyme: 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbal note that elevates the overall taste.
Biscuits: 1 (16-ounce) can of flaky biscuits serves as the topping, creating a delightful, fluffy crust as it bakes.

How to Prepare Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Getting started with Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly, creating a golden top.
Open the refrigerated biscuits and cut each section into quarters, so you have about 32 pieces. This will help them bake more evenly and create fluffy layers.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and the onion is translucent.
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute. The aroma will be delightful and will enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flour to absorb the flavors and create a roux.
Gradually stir in the chicken broth and the cream of chicken soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. This will ensure there are no lumps from the flour.
Once boiling, add the cooked cubed chicken and fresh thyme. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing everything to meld together.
Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the quartered biscuits. It’s okay if some dough pieces are left over; they’ll add a nice texture on top.
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 baking pan, spreading it evenly. Leave a few of the biscuits aside to sprinkle on top for a beautiful finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the biscuits are golden brown. Allow it to stand for about 5 minutes before serving, as this will help it thicken.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for Doneness: Always ensure the casserole is bubbling and the biscuits are golden before removing it from the oven.
Let it Cool: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it thicken, making it easier to serve.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables for the best flavor. Fresh thyme can elevate the dish.
Don’t Skip the Butter: It adds richness and flavor to the sautéed vegetables, making a big difference in the overall taste.

Customization Ideas

If you’re eager to make this dish your own, there are countless ways to customize Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish without the biscuits, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 to 4 months. Thaw before adding biscuits and baking.
Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations: Feel free to add more veggies like peas or corn for added color and nutrition. You can also use different herbs like rosemary for a unique twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat if you like spicy dishes.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the biscuits during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy version!

Serving Options for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

When it comes to serving Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, there are so many delightful options to consider. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings.

Casual Dinner: This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Just serve it straight from the oven to the table!
Comfort Food for Guests: If you’re hosting friends or family, this dish will impress and provide a filling meal that everyone will love.
Seasonal Gatherings: It’s a fantastic choice for winter gatherings, offering warmth and comfort during chilly evenings.
Lunch Leftovers: The leftovers make a hearty lunch option that can be saved for the next day.
Side Dishes: Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
Special Occasions: Serve it during family get-togethers, potlucks, or as comfort food for holidays.
Freezer Meals: It’s a great option for make-ahead meals; just pull it out of the freezer for a quick dinner solution.

FAQ

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy biscuits in a creamy sauce. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it the perfect meal for cold weather or family gatherings.

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works wonderfully in Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Just chop it into cubes and mix it into the casserole. It’s a great way to use up any extra chicken from previous meals.

You can customize Chicken and Dumpling Casserole in many ways. Feel free to add different vegetables, such as peas or corn, or use herbs like rosemary for a unique twist. You can also make it spicier with cayenne pepper for a kick!

Yes, this casserole is great for freezing! Assemble it without the biscuits and freeze for up to 3 to 4 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it, add the biscuits, and bake as usual.

Conclusion

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is truly a dish that embodies comfort and nostalgia. Its combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy biscuits creates a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to try making this dish and experience the warmth it brings to your table. It’s perfect for family gatherings, chilly nights, or simply whenever you’re craving something comforting. Give it a go, and I promise you won’t regret it!