Easy Chicken and Dumplings with Canned Biscuits: A Comfort Food Classic
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and hearty meal that the whole family will love, look no further than chicken and dumplings with canned biscuits. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, rich gravy, and soft dumplings in a straightforward recipe that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish will leave your loved ones asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
- What You Need
- Preparing the Chicken
- Making the Gravy
- Biscuits & Dumpling Options
- Cooking Time and Method
- Garnishing Your Dish
- Serving Suggestions
- Storing Leftovers
- Healthier Alternatives
- Common Questions
What You Need
To make this delicious meal, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can of biscuits
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken if you haven’t already. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, boil chicken breasts, or even use the meat from a whole cooked chicken. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside. This step is crucial as it lays the foundation of flavor for the dish.
Making the Gravy
In a large pot, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you’re adding mixed vegetables, this is the time to do so. Allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat to ensure that all flavors meld together beautifully.
Biscuits & Dumpling Options
For the dumplings, canned biscuits are a game changer. Simply cut each biscuit into quarters and drop them into the simmering gravy. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make homemade dumplings from scratch using flour, baking powder, and milk, but the canned version saves time.
Cooking Time and Method
After adding the biscuits, cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the dumplings to rise and cook through in the rich gravy. Make sure not to lift the lid during cooking as the steam is essential for fluffy dumplings.
Garnishing Your Dish
Once your chicken and dumplings are ready, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile and presentation of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken and dumplings hot, paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables. This meal is also delightful with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the savory gravy.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of chicken and dumplings, consider using low-fat versions of the cream soup or even replacing it with a homemade roux or healthy broth. You can also add more vegetables to increase the dish’s nutritional value.
Common Questions
- Can I freeze chicken and dumplings? Yes, but it’s better to freeze the chicken and gravy separately from the dumplings, as they can become soggy upon thawing.
- Can I use other types of biscuits? Absolutely! You can try using flaky biscuits or can create a more flavorful profile with garlic or herb biscuits.
- How do I thicken my gravy? You can thicken the gravy by stirring in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or simply letting it simmer longer.
- What can I serve with chicken and dumplings? Popular side dishes include green beans, cornbread, or a light salad.
- Is this recipe good for meal prep? Yes, it’s a great option for meal prepping, but remember to store the dumplings separately if you plan to freeze it.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings with canned biscuits is a simple yet satisfying dish that can bring warmth to any dinner table. Its robust flavors and easy preparation make it a winner for both newcomers and experienced cooks alike. Click here to explore more recipes on our website. For those interested in a variety of dumpling recipes, learn more about dumpling recipes from a credible source.