Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumpling Casserole – Comfort in Every Bite
If you’re craving a warm, creamy, and comforting dish that feels like a hug in a casserole dish, this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumpling Casserole will be your new favorite. This recipe takes all the classic flavors of traditional chicken and dumplings — tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy dumpling-like topping — and transforms them into an easy baked casserole that’s perfect for weeknights, Sunday dinners, or even potlucks.
What makes this recipe extra special is its “magic layering” technique — you don’t stir the layers together before baking. As it cooks, the broth and cream rise up through the flour mixture, creating a soft, dumpling-like texture on top while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful underneath.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – No rolling dough or simmering for hours.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults will love it.
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple pantry staples.
- Perfect for meal prep – Stores and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups cooked chicken – shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter – melted
- 2 cups chicken broth – preferably low-sodium
- 1 cup self-rising flour – ensures light, fluffy dumplings
- 1 cup milk – whole milk for richness
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – condensed
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Spread your cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. This forms the base layer and ensures every bite has tender, juicy meat.
Step 3: Add the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the chicken. This step adds richness and helps keep the meat moist during baking.
Step 4: Make the Dumpling Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and milk until smooth. Don’t overmix — just stir until there are no visible lumps. Pour this mixture gently over the chicken, but do not stir. The magic happens when the layers bake separately.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until well blended. Pour this mixture over the casserole — again, without stirring. The liquids will sink into the chicken and rise through the dumpling batter as it cooks.
Step 6: Season
Lightly sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top. If your broth and soup are already salty, reduce the added salt.
Step 7: Bake
Place the dish uncovered into your preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The dumpling layer should be fluffy and cooked through.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken & Dumpling Casserole
- Use leftover chicken – Great for using up rotisserie chicken or roasted turkey.
- Add vegetables – Mix in peas, carrots, or corn for a complete meal in one dish.
- Make it creamier – Stir ¼ cup heavy cream into the broth mixture.
- Boost the flavor – Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the chicken layer.
- Check doneness – Insert a toothpick into the dumpling layer; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your casserole warm with:
- Fresh green beans or steamed broccoli
- A crisp side salad
- Buttery dinner rolls for soaking up the creamy sauce
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short intervals.
Variations You Can Try
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the chicken layer.
- Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Herbed Dumplings – Add 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs to the flour mixture.