Easy Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

The other day, the Texas rain was comin’ down sideways, and all I wanted was a big bowl of comfort. My kids, bless their hearts, were underfoot, whinin’ about bein’ bored. That’s when I remembered my grandma’s Bisquick chicken and dumplings. It’s a recipe I’ve made dozens of times in my kitchen, a real lifesaver on busy weeknights. You know, that Bisquick magic makes it so easy! Today, I’m sharing my version with you, so you can have a hearty, homemade meal on the table in no time. I promise you’ll learn how to make the fluffiest dumplings and a savory, creamy chicken that’ll warm you right up.

Why This Recipe Works

This Bisquick chicken and dumplings recipe is a game-changer for busy families like mine. It’s simple, satisfying, and uses pantry staples you likely already have. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.
• Kid-Approved: My kids devour this every time. The creamy sauce and soft dumplings are always a hit.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
• Comfort Food Classic: Nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings on a chilly evening.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
• 2/3 cup milk

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a little more detail on why these ingredients are key and how you can customize them:

• Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works great too. The texture adds heartiness and protein to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is best so you can control the saltiness. You can also use homemade chicken stock for extra flavor.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and body to the sauce. For a healthier option, look for a reduced-sodium or organic version. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own cream sauce from scratch, but I find the canned soup makes this recipe fast and simple!
• Bisquick Baking Mix: This is the secret to quick and easy dumplings. The pre-mixed ingredients ensure they rise perfectly and have a light, fluffy texture. Don’t substitute with plain flour without adjusting the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cookin’! Follow these easy steps for perfect chicken and dumplings every time.

1. Step 1: Combine Ingredients. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, onion, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. This base is where all the flavor starts, so make sure everything is nicely mixed.
2. Step 2: Bring to a Simmer. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. The simmering allows the flavors to really combine.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings. While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare the dumpling batter. In a medium bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix and milk. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix! The batter should be slightly lumpy. This is key for light and fluffy dumplings.
4. Step 4: Drop the Dumplings. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering chicken mixture. I usually use a tablespoon to scoop the batter, making sure to space the dumplings evenly in the pot. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or the dumplings won’t cook properly.
5. Step 5: Cook the Dumplings. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as this will release steam and affect the dumplings’ rise. After about 15 minutes, check the dumplings by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they’re done!
6. Step 6: Serve. Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dumplings to firm up slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

After making this dozens of times, here’s what I’ve learned to make it even better:

• Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the Bisquick, resulting in tough, dense dumplings. Stir just until combined.
• Keep the Lid On: Resist the urge to peek while the dumplings are cooking. The steam is essential for them to rise properly.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform dumplings, use a small cookie scoop to drop the batter into the simmering mixture.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or peas to the chicken mixture for extra nutrients and flavor. I sometimes toss in a bag of frozen mixed vegetables for a quick boost.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering mixture during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A little extra poultry seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time and effort.

Storage & Meal Prep

Here’s how to store, reheat, and prep your chicken and dumplings for future meals:

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to thin the sauce.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, bring to a simmer and proceed with the dumpling recipe.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to tweak this recipe to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences? Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick. I’ve had good results with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Biscuit Mix.
• Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk or soy milk in place of dairy milk. You can also use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative, though I haven’t personally tried this substitution yet.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with cooked white beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous: Stir in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just bring it to a simmer and add the dumplings. It’s a great way to get a head start on a busy weeknight!

Q: How do I know when the dumplings are done?

A: The dumplings are done when they’re cooked through and no longer doughy in the center. You can test them by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready. Also, they should be puffy and slightly golden on top.

Q: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

A: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can make a simple white sauce using butter, flour, and milk. Season it with salt, pepper, and a little poultry seasoning to mimic the flavor of the soup. There are tons of recipes available online for a simple roux-based cream sauce!

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dumplings might soften a bit, but they’ll still taste delicious. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore some moisture.

Q: Is this kid-friendly?

A: Definitely! This is a great meal for kids because it’s comforting, creamy, and not too spicy. My kids love it! You can even let them help with simple tasks like stirring the ingredients or dropping the dumplings into the pot.

Q: Can I freeze this?

A: While you can freeze chicken and dumplings, the texture of the dumplings might change slightly upon thawing. The dumplings may become a bit softer, but it’s still perfectly edible. For best results, freeze in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use different types of meat?

A: You sure can! While this recipe calls for chicken, feel free to experiment with other meats like turkey or even ham. Just make sure the meat is cooked and shredded before adding it to the pot. Turkey especially is a favorite around Thanksgiving time – it’s a great way to use up leftovers!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and dumplings is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to round it out:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy dumplings.
• Green Beans: Steamed or roasted green beans are a classic side dish that pairs well with chicken and dumplings.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is the perfect Southern accompaniment. I love serving this with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.

This Bisquick chicken and dumplings recipe is a hug in a bowl, perfect for busy families who crave homemade comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the joy of a quick, easy, and delicious meal.

Let me know how it turns out in the comments below! I love hearing your feedback and seeing your creations. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to sign up for my newsletter and follow me on social media for more family-friendly recipes and cooking tips. You might also like my Easiest Chili Recipe [INTERNAL LINK: Easiest Chili Recipe].

Happy cooking, y’all!

– Susan Lirden, FamiliesRecipes.com

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