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Are you looking for a comforting yet simple meal that captures the essence of cozy family dinners? Look no further than this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole recipe! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy all the flavors of traditional chicken and dumplings in a convenient bake that practically prepares itself.
Imagine the aroma of tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings filling your kitchen as this casserole bakes to perfection. This recipe has become my go-to during busy weeknights and impromptu gatherings, earning rave reviews from friends and family alike. The best part? It stores beautifully in the fridge, allowing you to savor its deliciousness for days to come.
Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or add your own twist with seasonal veggies or alternative soups, this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a versatile dish that will surely earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So, gather your loved ones around the table and let the warmth and comfort of this casserole create lasting memories one delightful bite at a time.
Quick Benefits
- Convenient and quick alternative to traditional chicken and dumplings
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days
- Versatile recipe with options for ingredient swaps to accommodate dietary needs
- Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep and future enjoyment
Why You’ll Love This Homestyle Chicken Dumpling Casserole Recipe Recipe
- Convenience: Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings when you want a comforting meal without the long hours of traditional chicken and dumplings.
- Family Favorite: Brings all the flavors of traditional chicken and dumplings in an easy casserole format that everyone will love.
- Make-Ahead: Stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep or leftovers.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with variations like using different types of soup, adding vegetables, or swapping in different meats to make it your own.
- Freezer-Friendly: Can be assembled and frozen for up to two months, offering a convenient freezer meal option for future use.
- All Seasons: Whether served with simple sides in warmer weather or paired with heartier dishes in winter, this casserole is versatile and comforting year-round.
- Nostalgic Comfort: A modern twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth and familiarity to the table with minimal effort.
- Potluck Favorite: Guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings or potlucks, with requests for the recipe sure to follow thanks to its delicious flavors and convenience.
Ingredients for Homestyle Chicken Dumpling Casserole Recipe
Main
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- Salt, to taste
Pro Tips for Homestyle Chicken Dumpling Casserole Recipe
Pro Tip 1: For a richer flavor, consider making your own homemade chicken broth instead of using store-bought broth. This will enhance the savory taste of the casserole and elevate the dish.
Pro Tip 2: To add a pop of color and nutrients, mix in some peas and carrots or other mixed vegetables to the casserole. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds extra texture and flavor to the dish.
Pro Tip 3: To make meal prep easier, assemble the casserole ahead of time and freeze it for up to two months. This way, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready to bake whenever you need it, saving time and effort on busy days.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken Dumpling Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Casserole Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Assemble Chicken Layer
Evenly distribute the cooked chicken in the prepared dish and drizzle melted butter over the top.
Step 3: Prepare Flour Mixture and Add
Combine self-rising flour and milk until smooth. Pour over chicken and butter without stirring.
Step 4: Mix Broth and Soup Layer
Combine chicken broth and condensed cream of chicken soup in a bowl. Pour the mixture over the casserole without stirring.
Step 5: Season Casserole
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Storage Tips
Once you have prepared and enjoyed your delicious Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, storing the leftovers is simple. To maintain the dish’s flavor and texture, it is best to refrigerate any remaining portions in an airtight container for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave for the best results. The flavors often meld together even more after a day or two, making leftovers just as tasty as the freshly baked casserole.
If you find yourself with more casserole than you can consume within a few days, you can also opt to freeze the dish for future meals. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. The dumpling topping surprisingly retains its texture well when frozen. The assembled casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before baking it as usual. This convenient option allows you to have a comforting meal at the ready whenever you need it.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a quicker option, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken. This will save time and still provide a flavorful protein base for the casserole. Additionally, you can personalize the flavor profile by swapping the condensed cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Each variation will bring a unique taste to the dish while maintaining its comforting essence.
If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative. Similarly, if you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free self-rising flour to ensure the dumplings turn out light and fluffy. These substitutions allow you to tailor the recipe to fit your specific dietary needs without compromising on taste or texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a creative twist on serving this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, try adding a layer of crispy bacon crumbles on top before baking. The salty crunch complements the creamy casserole beautifully and adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Another fun idea is to serve individual portions of the casserole in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also helps with portion control and ensures each serving has a perfect ratio of chicken, dumplings, and creamy sauce.
FAQs for Homestyle Chicken Dumpling Casserole Recipe
Can I use cooked turkey instead of chicken in this casserole?
Yes, you can easily substitute cooked turkey for chicken, especially around the holidays, to add a seasonal twist to the dish.
Can I use cream of mushroom or celery soup instead of cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup to create a different flavor profile in this casserole, allowing for some variety in your dish.
Do the flour and milk in the recipe create dumplings in the casserole?
Yes, the flour and milk mixture in the recipe forms light dumplings as the casserole bakes, providing a comforting and traditional element to the dish.
How should I store leftovers of this casserole?
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently to help maintain the texture and flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is truly a comforting and versatile dish that brings together the classic flavors of traditional chicken and dumplings in a convenient bake. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or planning a gathering with loved ones, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite vegetables, experimenting with different types of soup bases, or even trying out unique herb combinations. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability and the memories it creates around the dinner table. So go ahead, give this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole a try, and savor the warmth and simplicity it brings to your home-cooked meals.
Homestyle Chicken Dumpling Casserole Recipe
“Effortlessly comforting Chicken and Dumpling Casserole, a cozy bake that captures the essence of traditional flavors in a convenient and family-friendly meal.”
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time50 min
Total Time65 min
CuisineAmerican Southern
Skill LevelEasy
Servings8 Servings (One 9×13-inch casserole, cut into 8 servings)
Ingredients
Main
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare Oven and Casserole Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
-
Assemble Chicken Layer: Evenly distribute the cooked chicken in the prepared dish and drizzle melted butter over the top.
-
Prepare Flour Mixture and Add: Combine self-rising flour and milk until smooth. Pour over chicken and butter without stirring.
-
Mix Broth and Soup Layer: Combine chicken broth and condensed cream of chicken soup in a bowl. Pour the mixture over the casserole without stirring.
-
Season Casserole: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
-
Bake and Serve: Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
