Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Get Your Broth Simmering: Grab a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Toss in your pre-cooked chopped chicken (or turkey), the chopped celery, the can of cream of chicken soup, the two cans of chicken broth, and your three cans of water. Give it a good stir. Set pot over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Let it simmer while you whip up the dumplings.
- Step 2: Whip Up the Dumpling Dough: While your broth is simmering, grab a large mixing bowl. Pour in your self-rising flour. Next, add the shortening. Use a fork or a pastry blender to cut the shortening into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Gradually pour in the boiling water, starting with about half a cup, mixing as you go, then add more by the tablespoon until the dough comes together into a cohesive, soft ball. Be careful, it's hot!
- Step 3: Shape Your Dumplings: Lightly dust a clean countertop or cutting board with a little extra flour. Turn your dough out onto the floured surface and gently roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into strips and then into squares for classic flat dumplings, or pinch off small, uniform pieces for rustic drop-dumplings. Both ways are delicious.
- Step 4: Add the Dumplings to the Pot: Carefully remove the lid from your simmering broth. Gently add your dumpling squares (or drop dumplings) to the boiling broth, a few at a time. Work quickly and replace the lid after each addition to help maintain the broth's temperature. Allow about 30 seconds between each addition for even cooking.
- Step 5: Simmer and Season: Once all your dumplings are in the pot, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. Give it a gentle stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Finally, taste your masterpiece and season generously with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Your amazing Easy Chicken and Dumplings are ready! Ladle the hot, comforting goodness into bowls. Serve immediately.
Notes
Customize with extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach, or deepen flavors with a pinch of dried thyme or poultry seasoning. For a creamier broth, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half. To ensure tender dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough and make sure the broth is at a steady, gentle simmer when adding them. Don't crowd the pot. Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra chicken broth or water as needed, as dumplings tend to absorb liquid.