Chicken And Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, comforting dish that satisfies the whole family? This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole recipe is just what you need. With its tender chicken, flavorful veggies, and soft, pillowy dumplings baked in a rich, creamy sauce, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. Read on to discover the full recipe and cooking tips to ensure perfect results every time!

this Recipe

What is Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic chicken and dumpling soup. Instead of simmering the dumplings in broth, this version combines shredded chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, with a fluffy Bisquick dumpling topping, all baked in the oven. The result is a golden, bubbling casserole that’s pure comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings, this dish is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you’ll need to make Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. These ingredients are pantry staples and easy to find, making this dish not only delicious but also convenient.

For the Chicken Filling:

• 1 stick of butter – Adds richness to the casserole.
• 3 cups of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, boiled and shredded – Provides the essential protein for the casserole. Shredding the chicken allows it to mix evenly with the vegetables and sauce.
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion – Brings a sweet, savory flavor to the dish.
• ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper – Adds a bit of color and crunch to the casserole.
• ¼ cup finely chopped red or orange bell pepper – For extra color and a slightly sweeter pepper taste.
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning – A mix of herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary that complements the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper – For seasoning.
• 2 teaspoons salt – To enhance all the flavors in the casserole.

For the Dumpling Topping:

• 2 cups Bisquick flour – The secret ingredient for fluffy, effortless dumplings.
• 2 cups milk – Helps bind the Bisquick mix into a batter that rises as it bakes.

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups chicken stock – Gives the casserole that rich, chicken-flavored base.
• 1 can cream of chicken soup – Thickens the sauce and adds a creamy texture to the filling.

Substitutions and Variations

There are endless ways to tweak this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetable Substitutes: If you don't have bell peppers on hand, you can substitute with carrots, celery, or even peas. These will add different textures and flavors but will still complement the chicken and creamy sauce.
• Protein Variation: While chicken is the classic choice, this casserole can easily be adapted using leftover turkey, pork, or even rotisserie chicken for a faster meal. You could also use cooked sausage for a more robust flavor.
• Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities, you can use a gluten-free Bisquick mix and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
• Creamy Additions: If you want an extra cheesy layer, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the chicken mixture before adding the Bisquick topping.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Chicken and Dumpling Casserole that will warm both body and soul.

1. Preheat Your Oven:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole bakes evenly and is perfectly cooked.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Boil 3 cups of boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they are fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large skillet, melt 1 stick of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red/orange bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables until they soften, about 5 minutes.

4. Mix the Chicken and Vegetables:

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning, 1 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Stir to combine everything evenly.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

In a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the bottom.

6. Prepare the Sauce:

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of chicken stock and 1 can of cream of chicken soup. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the casserole dish.

7. Make the Dumpling Topping:

In another bowl, mix 2 cups of Bisquick flour and 2 cups of milk. Stir until just combined (be careful not to over-mix). Pour the Bisquick batter evenly over the top of the casserole.

8. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

How to Cook Chicken and Dumpling Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

For anyone wanting a more detailed cooking guide, here’s a closer look at the entire process to ensure every step is followed perfectly:

1. Boil the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it's just done but not overcooked. You want tender, juicy shredded chicken.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Don’t rush this step; sautéing the vegetables properly ensures their flavors develop fully, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
3. Even Layering: When assembling, make sure the shredded chicken and vegetables are spread out evenly in the casserole dish for uniform flavor in each bite.
4. Even Bisquick Spread: Pour the Bisquick mixture carefully to cover the top without disturbing the chicken mixture underneath. This will help the dumplings rise evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Boiling chicken too long can result in dry, stringy meat. Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks to prevent this.
• Undercooking the Dumplings: The Bisquick topping should be golden brown and cooked through. If you remove the casserole too early, the dumplings might be doughy and undercooked.
• Not Sautéing the Vegetables: Skipping this step may result in raw-tasting veggies, which won’t be as appealing in the final dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is a rich and hearty dish, so serving it alongside a light, crisp side dish can balance out the meal.

• Side Dish Ideas: Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to add freshness. You could also pair it with a light fruit salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the baked casserole for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Serve the Chicken and Dumpling Casserole hot, straight out of the oven. Use a large serving spoon to scoop generous portions onto plates, making sure to include a good mix of the tender chicken, veggies, sauce, and fluffy dumplings in each serving.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

For a rustic presentation, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish in the center of the table. You can also portion it out into individual bowls or plates for a more refined look. For an elegant touch, garnish each serving with a few sprigs of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole also freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and proceed with the recipe as written.

Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free version of cream of chicken soup.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done? A: The top should be golden brown and the sauce should be bubbling around the edges when it’s finished baking.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and fluffy Bisquick topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make and deeply satisfying. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and savor the warmth and comfort of homemade goodness. Happy cooking!

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