Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a warm, creamy casserole, especially when it’s packed with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory sauce. If you love the traditional flavors of chicken and dumplings but don’t have the time to make it from scratch, this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is the perfect solution. It has all the classic flavors you crave but in a simpler, oven-baked form—and the best part? You can have this delicious meal on your table in under an hour!
This one-pan wonder is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut, swap the dumplings for Bisquick or canned biscuits, and even customize it with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
If you’re looking for a hearty, stress-free meal that delivers comfort food goodness with minimal effort, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
There’s a reason this recipe is a go-to favorite for so many families. Not only does it come together quickly, but it also ticks all the boxes when it comes to taste, convenience, and comfort. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with this dish:
✔ A Quick & Easy One-Pan Meal
Busy weeknights call for low-effort meals that don’t require a ton of prep work or cleanup. This casserole bakes all in one dish, making it as effortless as possible. No rolling out dumplings or standing over a stovetop—just mix, layer, bake, and enjoy!
✔ Creamy and Hearty Comfort Food
This casserole is pure comfort food, loaded with juicy chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for cold evenings or when you need something cozy and satisfying.
✔ Customizable to Your Preferences
Want to add veggies like peas, carrots, or green beans? Go for it! Prefer homemade dumplings instead of biscuits? No problem. You can adjust this recipe to suit your family’s taste while keeping the prep time minimal.
✔ Perfect for Leftovers
This casserole stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great meal prep option. You can freeze individual portions for easy lunches or save some for the next day’s dinner. Either way, it’s just as delicious the second time around!
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
One of the best things about this Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is that it’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you probably already have. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Options:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- Leftover chicken from another meal
Dumpling Base:
- Bisquick mix (for quick, fluffy dumplings)
- Canned biscuits (cut into quarters for an easy shortcut)
- Homemade dumplings (if you want a traditional touch)
Sauce & Seasoning:
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (adds richness and depth)
- 2 cups chicken broth (for that classic chicken and dumpling flavor)
- 1/2 cup milk (for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter (adds a rich, comforting taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or parsley
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole: Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas & carrots (for extra nutrition)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (if you like a cheesy twist)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Chicken and Dumpling Bake
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to make this delicious casserole.
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken
- If using raw chicken, season and cook it until tender, then shred it. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic timesaver!
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Make the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, melted butter, and seasonings. This creates a rich, creamy base that infuses the casserole with flavor.
- Pour this directly over the chicken in the baking dish.
3️⃣ Layer the Dumplings
- If using Bisquick, mix it with milk to form a soft dough, then drop spoonfuls on top of the casserole.
- If using canned biscuits, cut them into quarters and scatter them evenly over the top.
4️⃣ Bake & Serve
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving—it will thicken as it cools.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy!
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
A hearty casserole pairs perfectly with light and refreshing side dishes. Here are some delicious options to balance out your meal:
Garlic Roasted Green Beans
Crisp, vibrant green beans roasted with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon juice add a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole. The slight crunch of the beans makes every bite more enjoyable.
Buttered Corn on the Cob
A classic Southern side dish, corn on the cob brushed with melted butter and a sprinkle of salt enhances the meal’s homestyle flavors. For extra flair, add paprika or Parmesan cheese!
Crisp Garden Salad
A fresh salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole, making it a well-rounded meal.
Homemade Dinner Rolls
Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from the casserole. Serve with honey butter or garlic spread for extra flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Leftovers
Properly storing and reheating your Chicken and Dumpling Casserole ensures it retains its flavor and texture while preventing it from drying out. Whether you’re planning to eat leftovers within a few days or save portions for later, here’s the best way to keep your dish fresh and delicious.
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which could make the dumplings soggy.
- Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
- For longer storage, divide the casserole into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags.
- If using a baking dish, wrap it tightly with several layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label each container with the date to track freshness.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating Instructions
Oven Method (Best for Retaining Texture)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish if not already in one.
- Cover with foil to prevent the dumplings from drying out.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creaminess.
Microwave Method (Quickest Option)
- Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power (50-70%) for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- If it seems dry, add a little broth or milk and heat for another 30 seconds.
Stovetop Method (Great for Small Portions)
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add the casserole with a splash of broth or milk.
- Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Chicken and Dumpling Casserole just as fresh and flavorful as when it first came out of the oven!
FAQs About Making Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
❓ Can you freeze chicken and dumpling casserole?
Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
❓ What’s the best dumpling option—Bisquick, canned biscuits, or homemade?
- Bisquick dumplings = Quick & fluffy
- Canned biscuits = Flaky & easy
- Homemade dumplings = Traditional & soft
❓ Can I make this without cream of chicken soup?
Yes! Replace it with a homemade roux: 2 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp flour + 1.5 cups broth + 1/2 cup milk.
❓ How do I make this a complete meal?
Serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad for balance!
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole: Final Thoughts
And there you have it—an easy, homemade Chicken and Dumpling Casserole that delivers all the comforting flavors you love in under an hour. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping it for leftovers, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Give it a try, and let me know—what’s your favorite way to make chicken and dumpling casserole? Drop a comment below!
