chicken and dumpling casserole

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Chicken and dumpling casserole brings together all the cozy flavors of a classic Southern dish—right from the start, you’ll taste the warmth of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy biscuit topping baked to golden perfection. This is the kind of dish that feels like home, whether you’re serving it to family on a Sunday night or bringing it to a potluck gathering.

What makes this chicken and dumpling casserole so special is its layered simplicity. The base is creamy and rich, often made with chicken broth, milk, and a touch of butter. The filling combines shredded chicken and vegetables, all tucked beneath a biscuit or dumpling-style topping that rises and browns beautifully in the oven. The contrast between the tender, savory filling, and the soft yet golden crust is pure comfort in every bite.

This casserole is not only filling—it’s forgiving. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even turkey. The ingredients are pantry-friendly and substitutions are easy to make. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a seasoned home cook, this dish is meant to be fuss-free and deeply satisfying.

The full chicken and dumpling casserole recipe is just below, but be sure to read through the tips for the best texture, flavor, and make-ahead advice. Let’s get cooking.

chicken and dumpling casserole Ingredients:

A good chicken and dumpling casserole begins with wholesome, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create layers of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re using leftovers or cooking from scratch, this dish is endlessly adaptable.

Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need—and how you can make it your own:

• Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded): This is the heart of the casserole. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but any cooked, shredded chicken works beautifully. Leftover turkey can be a cozy alternative.
• Butter (¼ cup): Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables. You can use olive oil in a pinch, but butter gives the best flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup): Forms the base of the roux, thickening the sauce. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 GF flour blend.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups): Adds deep savory flavor. Low-sodium broth is preferred so you can control the salt. Vegetable broth works, too.
• Milk (1 cup): For the creamy texture in the base. Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but 2% or even unsweetened almond milk can substitute.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots (1½ cups): Classic vegetables that add sweetness and color. You can also use a frozen mixed vegetable blend or fresh, lightly steamed veggies.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Start with a teaspoon of each, then adjust to taste once the sauce is made.
• Biscuits (1 can refrigerated, or homemade): These create the dumpling topping. Use store-bought canned biscuits for ease, or drop spoonfuls of homemade biscuit dough for a rustic look.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top before serving brightens the dish and adds a touch of freshness.

Every ingredient in this chicken and dumpling casserole brings a bit of nostalgia and comfort. It’s a recipe built for substitutions, so don’t worry if you need to get creative.

How To Make Chicken and Dumpling Casserole (Step-by-Step Guide)

Making this chicken and dumpling casserole is easy if you follow these steps! It’s a straightforward, cozy dish that rewards you with comforting flavors and textures at every bite. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, set out all your ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken and measure out your flour, butter, milk, and broth. If using canned biscuits, open the can and separate them. This makes the assembly much smoother.

Step 2 – Build the Casserole Base

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and then the milk, whisking constantly. Cook until thickened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the peas, carrots, salt, and pepper, then fold in the shredded chicken. Once combined, pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3 – Add Chicken and Broth

If you haven’t already stirred the chicken into the sauce, now’s the time. Gently fold it in until every bite is coated. This ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful. Smooth the mixture evenly across the baking dish.

Step 4 – Top with Dumplings

Top the chicken and dumpling casserole with biscuit dough, spacing the pieces evenly over the surface. If using canned biscuits, you may want to cut each one in half to avoid overpowering the dish. For homemade dough, drop spoonfuls across the top. Don’t press them down—they’ll rise as they bake.

Step 5 – Bake Until Golden and Serve

Bake uncovered in a 375°F oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden and the filling is bubbling. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help everything settle. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and brightness to every plate.

Tips for Success

Making chicken and dumpling casserole is as comforting as it gets, but a few smart tips can help you bring out the best in each bite. Here’s how to get that creamy base and fluffy biscuit top just right every time.

• Use a hot filling for even baking. Before topping with the biscuits, make sure your chicken mixture is hot and bubbly. This helps the dumplings cook properly on top rather than staying doughy underneath.
• Don’t overcrowd the biscuit topping. Leave a little space between each biscuit or dumpling to allow steam to rise and circulate. This gives each piece room to puff and brown.
• Thicken your base just enough. The roux (butter and flour) is key to creating a thick, creamy filling. If it’s too thin, your casserole can turn soupy after baking. Let it simmer until it coats the back of a spoon.
• Taste your filling before baking. Once the sauce is made and chicken is added, give it a quick taste for seasoning. Salt levels can vary depending on the broth you use.
• Use smaller biscuit pieces. If using canned biscuits, consider cutting them in half or quarters. They’ll cook faster and blend better with the creamy texture of the dish.

Following these tips will help your chicken and dumpling casserole turn out golden, fluffy, and full of flavor—just like grandma used to make.

Serving Suggestions

A warm, hearty chicken and dumpling casserole shines on its own—but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides and drinks to round out your meal. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, these ideas add just the right finishing touch.

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole. Try a mix of greens with cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
• Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: These vegetables bring color and crunch to the table. A pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt is all they need.
• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Ideal for soaking up every bit of the creamy filling left on your plate.
• Sweet Tea or Light White Wine: Sweet iced tea adds a nostalgic touch, while a glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio) complements the buttery flavor of the dish.

For a cozy weeknight or a relaxed gathering, chicken and dumpling casserole is a satisfying centerpiece. Keep your sides light and classic to let the comfort shine through.

Discover the bold, sizzling flavor of our Steak Hibachi Recipe—a Japanese-American favorite that brings restaurant vibes to your home.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken and dumpling casserole is endlessly adaptable, which makes it a favorite across households. Whether you’re working with dietary needs or just want to try a new twist, here are some thoughtful ways to switch things up while keeping that classic comfort intact.

• Turkey Instead of Chicken: Perfect for holiday leftovers, shredded turkey works just as well in place of chicken. It offers a slightly richer flavor and makes the dish feel festive.
• Ham and Cheese Variation: Swap out the chicken for diced ham and stir in a handful of shredded cheddar. This version turns into a creamy, smoky casserole that’s hard to resist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and load up on hearty vegetables like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, or broccoli. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a full meat-free version.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the creamy base. Pepper Jack cheese also melts nicely into the sauce for an extra kick.
• Dairy-Free Adjustment: Use plant-based milk (like oats or almonds) and a dairy-free butter substitute. Many canned biscuits are dairy-free, or you can make your own with vegan ingredients.

These customizations let you tailor your chicken and dumpling casserole to suit tastes, seasons, and what’s already in your kitchen. Comfort food, after all, should fit your life.

How to Store and Reheat

Leftover chicken and dumpling casserole stores well and makes for a satisfying next-day meal. With the right steps, you can keep the texture just as comforting and the flavors as rich as when it first came out of the oven.

• Refrigerator Storage: Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also store it right in the baking dish covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through—usually about 20 minutes. This helps maintain the biscuit topping’s texture. If you’re short on time, microwave individual portions on medium power in 1-minute intervals, checking often to prevent overcooking.
• Moisture Tip: If the biscuits seem dry when reheating, lightly cover with foil in the oven or add a spoonful of broth before microwaving to keep the casserole moist.

Storing and reheating chicken and dumpling casserole is easy—and with the right technique, leftovers can be just as comforting the second time around.

Can You Freeze Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze chicken and dumpling casserole—but with a little care. While the creamy base and chicken freeze well, the biscuit or dumpling topping can become a bit soft after thawing. Still, it’s a great option for meal prep or saving leftovers.

• Freezing Instructions: Let the casserole cool completely. Wrap the entire baking dish tightly in foil and then plastic wrap, or portion it into freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thawing and Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a 350°F oven until fully warmed through—about 25–30 minutes. To crisp up the biscuit topping, uncover for the last 10 minutes of baking.

For the best texture, consider freezing just the filling and adding fresh biscuit dough before baking. That way, the dumplings bake up light and fluffy every time.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Recipe by RebeccaCourse: DoTasty

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

410

kcal

A cozy Southern-style casserole featuring creamy chicken and vegetables topped with golden biscuit dumplings.

Gather Your Goodies

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuits, cut in halves or quarters

• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes.
• Gradually add broth and milk, whisking until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
• Stir in frozen peas and carrots, salt, and pepper. Fold in the shredded chicken.
• Pour the hot filling into the prepared dish. Top with biscuit pieces, spacing evenly.
• Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until biscuits are golden and filling is bubbling.
• Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

• Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole (without biscuits) a day ahead and refrigerate. Add biscuits just before baking.
• Customize: Add mushrooms, green beans, or a pinch of thyme for variation
• Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.

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FAQs About Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Here are some of the most common questions folks ask when making chicken and dumpling casserole. Whether you’re new to the dish or just troubleshooting a batch, these answers should help you along the way.

Final Thoughts on Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Chicken and dumpling casserole is the kind of recipe that wraps you up in warmth. From its golden biscuit topping to the rich, creamy filling beneath, every forkful delivers comfort, nostalgia, and a touch of Southern tradition. It’s easy to see why this dish has stood the test of time.

Whether you follow the classic version or try one of the customizations, this casserole is meant to be shared—around a weeknight table, at a Sunday dinner, or during holidays when comfort food calls. It’s simple, satisfying, and wonderfully forgiving if you need to swap out ingredients.

If you try this chicken and dumpling casserole, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment or rating—and be sure to check out more cozy casseroles and old-fashioned favorites while you’re here.