Ingredients:
- Pulled chicken from a rotisserie chicken (no skin)
- 1 stick of butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup self-rising flour (must be self-rising)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Spread the pulled chicken evenly in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Butter Layer:
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Dumpling Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and milk until well combined. Slowly pour this mixture evenly over the chicken. Do not stir.
- Chicken Broth and Soup Mixture:
- In the same bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and condensed cream of chicken soup until well combined. Slowly pour this mixture into the baking pan over the chicken and flour mixture. Again, do not stir.
- Bake:
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes. This will allow the dumplings to form as it bakes.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Let the casserole sit for a minimum of 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dumplings to finish forming. The longer it sits, the more dumplings you get.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Dish up and enjoy your quick, easy, and delicious Chicken and Dumpling Casserole! It’s just as good the second day.
Optional Additions:
- Customize the dish with herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
- If you like vegetables, consider adding peas or diced carrots for added texture.
This casserole is a delightful twist on the classic chicken and dumplings. Enjoy!
Here are some helpful tips to make your Chicken and Dumpling Casserole even more delightful:
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the dumpling mixture or sprinkle them on top after baking. This will add a burst of fresh flavor.
- Vegetable Variation:
- Enhance the casserole by adding vegetables like peas, diced carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms. These additions not only contribute to flavor but also add color and nutritional value.
- Cheese Topping:
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking. It adds a golden, gooey layer.
- Garlic Infusion:
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter before pouring it over the chicken. This gives the dish a subtle garlic flavor, elevating the overall taste.
- Seasoning Choices:
- Experiment with different seasonings in the dumpling mixture. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of your favorite seasoning blend can enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Freshly Ground Pepper:
- Finish the dish with a crack of freshly ground black pepper just before serving. It adds a touch of warmth and complements the creamy texture.
- Serve with a Side:
- Consider serving the casserole with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread. This will balance the richness of the dish and make it a more complete meal.
- Garnish with Fresh Greens:
- Garnish individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or finely chopped green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness.
- Customize Spice Level:
- Adjust the spice level to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dumpling mixture.
- Let it Rest:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a bit longer before serving. This allows the flavors to meld further, and the dumplings continue to absorb the delicious broth.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and feel free to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences. Enjoy your Chicken and Dumpling Casserole!
Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Chicken and Dumpling Casserole:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients:
- Opt for high-quality rotisserie chicken, as it adds a depth of flavor to the casserole. Choose a good-quality chicken broth and self-rising flour for the dumplings.
- Balance Flavors:
- Ensure a balance of flavors by adjusting the salt and pepper levels. Taste the broth mixture before baking and make any necessary seasoning adjustments.
- Homemade Chicken Broth:
- If time allows, consider making your own chicken broth. This adds a rich and authentic flavor to the dish.
- Sift the Flour:
- Sift the self-rising flour before whisking it with milk. This helps create lighter and fluffier dumplings.
- Let the Dumplings Form Naturally:
- Resist the urge to stir the dumpling mixture once poured over the chicken. Allowing the dumplings to form naturally during baking contributes to their fluffy texture.
- Season Each Layer:
- Season each layer of the casserole, including the chicken, melted butter, and dumpling mixture. This ensures that every component is well-seasoned.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the dumpling mixture seems too thick or thin, adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk or flour. It should be pourable but not overly runny.
- Enhance with Aromatics:
- Add depth to the casserole by including aromatics like minced garlic or finely chopped onions. Sauté them briefly before incorporating into the dish.
- Let it Rest:
- Allow the casserole to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This gives the dumplings time to set and absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Double Check Doneness:
- Confirm that the dumplings are fully cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the dumplings are done.
- Reheat Thoughtfully:
- When reheating leftovers, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain the moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.
- Experiment with Seasonings:
- Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as poultry seasoning, thyme, or sage to add complexity to the flavor profile.
Remember, cooking is an art, and these tips are meant to guide you. Adjustments based on personal preferences will help you achieve your perfect Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Enjoy!