Name: Quick Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American Comfort
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, diced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 2 celery stalks, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 4 cups chicken broth 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces) 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (such as rotisserie) 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits); 0.75 cup milk Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

When comfort calls on a busy weeknight, few things satisfy like a big pot of creamy chicken and dumplings. This shortcut version brings all the warmth and richness of the classic Southern dish, but with a fraction of the time and effort. Tender shredded chicken swims in a creamy, savory broth, topped with fluffy biscuit-style dumplings that cook right in the pot. It tastes like it simmered all day, but it comes together in under 40 minutes.

What makes this dish so special is how it balances cozy nostalgia with practicality. It doesn’t demand a long ingredient list or hours of prep. Using rotisserie chicken and a few pantry staples, it transforms into a hearty, soul-soothing dinner that works any night of the week. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a hug in a bowl, this quick chicken and dumplings delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Chicken and Dumplings

This recipe is perfect for those craving comfort without the long cook time. It’s creamy, rich, and incredibly satisfying. The dumplings are pillowy soft, and the seasoned broth clings to the chicken beautifully. Everything simmers together in one pot, making cleanup as easy as the cooking process. Even picky eaters go for seconds, and leftovers heat up beautifully.

What Kind of Dumplings Should I Use?

For this quicker version, refrigerated biscuit dough works like a charm. It offers that classic dumpling feel with almost no effort. If you prefer a homemade touch, a simple flour, milk, and butter dough is just as good and can be dropped in spoonfuls over the bubbling broth. The key is not overmixing, so your dumplings stay tender and light.

Ingredients for the Quick Chicken and Dumplings

This recipe keeps things simple with easy-to-find ingredients that deliver maximum flavor in minimum time. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters.

Cooked shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken saves time and gives the dish a deep, savory flavor.
Chicken broth – Forms the rich, comforting base of the dish.
Cream of chicken soup – Adds body and creaminess without making a roux.
Refrigerated biscuit dough – Shortcut dumplings that puff up beautifully.
Carrots and celery – Classic veggies that bring texture and subtle sweetness.
Onion – Adds aromatic depth to the broth.
Butter – Helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness.
Garlic – Brings warmth and extra flavor.
Poultry seasoning – A perfect herb blend that gives the dish that homey feel.
Salt and black pepper – Essential to balance flavors.
Milk – Lightens the soup and adds a creamy finish.

How To Make the Quick Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the cream of chicken soup until well blended. Bring to a gentle simmer and season with poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Simmer

Stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Drop in the Dumplings

Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and gently place them on top of the simmering soup. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the dumplings cook for 15 to 20 minutes without lifting the lid, so they steam properly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the dumplings are puffed and cooked through, gently stir in the milk and let everything heat through for a few more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with fresh parsley on top if desired.

How to Serve and Store Quick Chicken and Dumplings

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people generously, making it a great option for family dinners or cozy nights in. Serve it straight from the pot with a sprinkle of parsley or a crack of black pepper on top for a rustic finish. The broth thickens as it sits, so it’s even better the next day.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen if needed. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, it also freezes well—just know the dumplings may soften slightly upon thawing.

What to Serve With Quick Chicken and Dumplings?

A Crisp Green Salad

A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to the creamy main dish.

Roasted Asparagus

Its light char and bright flavor contrast beautifully with the rich stew. Try this Roasted Asparagus Recipe.

Buttery Cornbread

Sweet or savory, cornbread is always a cozy match.

Garlic Green Beans

Steamed or sautéed green beans with garlic give a vibrant side crunch.

Creamy Coleslaw

A tangy slaw can cut through the richness and adds a cool texture.

Herby Chicken Meatballs

For extra protein on the side, these Herby Chicken Meatballs are a great pick.

Classic Caprese Salad

Add a refreshing, Italian twist with the Classic Caprese Salad Recipe.

Flaky Biscuits

If you skipped the biscuit dough dumplings, serve with fluffy homemade biscuits instead.

Want More Cozy Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Quick Chicken and Dumplings made your night easier and tastier, check out these other comforting chicken recipes on Janet Dishes:

No Peek Chicken Casserole is the ultimate dump-and-bake dinner.
Chicken Biscuit Casserole takes the biscuit love even further.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet adds a zesty kick to creamy chicken.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Parmesan Pasta makes for a fun twist on traditional chicken dinners.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms is a veggie-packed option that still feels indulgent.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so it’s right there when you need a cozy meal fast.

Let me know in the comments if you gave this a twist! Did you use homemade dumplings or keep it super simple? Did you add extra veggies or spice it up?

I love hearing your kitchen wins. Questions welcome too — let’s help each other make dinner even better.

Explore even more weeknight comfort meals and cozy bowls on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find something delicious for every night of the week.

Conclusion

Quick Chicken and Dumplings brings all the heart of a slow-simmered classic to your table in just about half an hour. With tender chicken, rich broth, and soft dumplings, it’s a warm hug in a bowl that doesn’t ask for much time or effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or flying solo, this is the kind of recipe that turns a regular night into something special.