Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole is the ultimate comfort food baked into one cozy, golden dish. Tender shredded chicken is layered with a rich, buttery base and topped with a simple batter that magically transforms into soft, pillowy dumplings as it bakes.
The result is a warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying casserole that captures all the nostalgic flavors of classic chicken and dumplings—without the need for stovetop simmering.
It’s easy, hearty, and perfect for family dinners, making it a timeless go-to when you want something comforting, filling, and made with love.
Why People Will Love This Chicken and Dumpling Casserole Recipe
Pure comfort in every bite – warm, creamy chicken and soft, fluffy dumplings create a nostalgic, home-cooked feeling that reminds people of classic family meals
Magical “self-forming dumplings” technique – the simple batter transforms in the oven into tender dumplings without complicated steps, making the recipe both fun and impressive
Rich, buttery, and savory flavor profile – layers of melted butter, seasoned chicken, and creamy broth come together to create deep, satisfying flavor
Incredibly easy, minimal prep – using rotisserie chicken and a one-pan method keeps preparation quick and accessible for busy cooks
Perfect one-dish meal – protein, sauce, and dumplings all bake together, so there’s no need for multiple sides or extra cooking
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing – mild, creamy flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings
Comforting texture contrast – juicy shredded chicken beneath soft dumplings with a lightly golden top creates a comforting and satisfying mouthfeel
Reliable, forgiving recipe – simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it hard to mess up, even for beginner cooks
Great for leftovers and next-day meals – the casserole reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld
Customizable to taste – you can easily add vegetables, herbs, or spices to adapt it to your family’s preferences while keeping the comforting base intact
Key Ingredients:
Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – the foundation of the dish; already cooked, tender, and flavorful, it brings convenience while delivering a rich, savory base
Butter – adds richness and depth; as it melts into the casserole, it creates a luscious, slightly crisp layer that enhances both flavor and texture
Milk – forms the base of the dumpling batter, giving the topping a soft, fluffy texture as it bakes
Self-Rising Flour – the key to the “magic dumplings”; it contains leavening that allows the batter to rise and transform into light, pillowy dumplings without extra steps
Chicken Broth – provides moisture and savory depth, helping to create the creamy sauce that surrounds the chicken and dumplings
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – acts as a flavor booster and thickener, adding creaminess and a comforting, classic casserole taste
Salt and Black Pepper – simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and the richness of the sauce
Expert Tips:
Use warm (not hot) melted butter
Pouring very hot butter over the chicken can start cooking the batter unevenly. Let it cool slightly so it spreads smoothly and creates a balanced base.
Layer in the correct order—and don’t stir
The success of the “magic dumplings” depends on keeping the layers separate: chicken → butter → batter → broth mixture. Stirring will prevent the dumplings from forming properly.
Whisk the batter until just smooth
Overmixing the flour and milk can make the dumplings dense. Mix just until combined to keep them light and tender.
Use self-rising flour only
This ingredient contains the leavening needed to create the dumpling texture. Substituting with all-purpose flour will result in a flat, dense topping unless you adjust with baking powder and salt.
Pour liquids slowly and evenly
When adding the batter and broth mixture, pour gently across the surface to keep the layers intact and evenly distributed.
Choose a deep 9×13 dish for proper structure
A deeper dish allows enough space for the dumplings to rise and for the sauce to form without overflowing.
Bake uncovered for the full time
Covering traps steam and can make the dumplings soggy. Baking uncovered helps the top set and lightly brown.
Let it rest before serving
Resting for at least 5–10 minutes allows the dumplings to finish setting and the sauce to thicken, giving you clean, scoopable portions.
Customize the flavor with simple additions
Add herbs like thyme or parsley, a pinch of garlic powder, or vegetables like peas and carrots to deepen the flavor while keeping the classic comfort profile.
Taste and adjust seasoning after baking
Because broth and soup contain salt, final seasoning should be adjusted at the end to avoid over-salting.
Reheat gently for best leftovers
Warm leftovers in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to restore moisture and keep the dumplings soft.
Make it ahead for convenience
You can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it closer to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
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
Instructions:
Preheat oven 375°
Spread chicken in a 9×13 baking dish
Pour butter evenly over chicken
Season with a little salt and pepper
In med bowl whisk together flour and milk. Slowly pour evenly over chicken. Do not stir!
In same bowl, whisk together chicken broth and chicken soup. Slowly pour into baking pan. Do not stir. Dumplings form as it bakes.
Bake uncovered for 45 mins. Let sit for minimum of 5 mins before serving, allowing dumplings to finish forming. The longer it sits the more dumplings you get. Just as good the second day, also!!!
Important Notes When Making Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Layering is the foundation of the recipe
The casserole works because the ingredients are poured in distinct layers and not stirred. This allows the dumplings to form naturally during baking. Stirring will prevent proper separation and texture.
Self-rising flour is essential
This ingredient provides the leavening that creates the soft, fluffy dumpling layer. Substituting it with regular flour without adjusting the leavening will result in dense, flat dumplings.
Use evenly shredded chicken
Pull the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized, uniform pieces. Large chunks can disrupt the dumpling formation and create uneven texture.
Butter distribution affects flavor and texture
Make sure the melted butter is poured evenly over the chicken. This helps create richness and prevents dry spots in the casserole.
Pour liquids slowly and evenly
The batter and broth mixture should be poured gently across the surface so the layers remain intact. This ensures even dumpling formation throughout the dish.
Oven temperature consistency is important
Baking at 375°F (190°C) allows the dumplings to cook through while forming a lightly golden top. Too high can burn the top; too low may leave the center undercooked.
Do not overbake
Baking too long can dry out the dumplings and make the casserole overly thick. Check around the 45-minute mark for doneness.
Resting time is necessary
Let the casserole sit for at least 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows the dumplings to finish setting and the sauce to thicken to the right consistency.
Seasoning balance matters
Since condensed soup and broth already contain salt, taste the finished dish before adding extra seasoning to avoid an overly salty result.
Best texture is right after baking
The casserole is at its best when fresh, with soft dumplings and a creamy sauce. It will thicken further as it cools.
Leftovers will thicken in the refrigerator
When reheating, add a small splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess and keep the dumplings soft.
Flexible but still classic
You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn, or herbs like thyme and parsley, but the base structure of chicken, butter, batter, and broth should remain unchanged to preserve the traditional texture.
How to Enjoy Chicken and Dumpling Casserole After Cooking
1. Let the casserole rest and finish setting
After baking, allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes
This helps the dumplings finish forming and allows the sauce to thicken into a creamy consistency
Cutting too early can make the layers look loose and runny
2. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor
The dumplings should be soft, fluffy, and lightly golden on top
The chicken should be tender and fully coated in the creamy sauce
Warm serving keeps the butter and broth flavors rich and comforting
3. Portion properly for a balanced serving
Use a wide spoon to scoop from the bottom to the top so each serving includes chicken + sauce + dumplings
Aim for about 1 to 1½ cups per serving for a hearty, satisfying portion
4. Add simple finishing touches for freshness
Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or thyme on top for color and a light herbal note
A light crack of black pepper just before serving enhances the aroma
5. Pair with light, refreshing sides
Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness
Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli work well
A side of cranberry sauce or pickled vegetables adds a nice contrast
6. Beverage pairings
Comfort drink: iced tea, lemonade, or a light herbal tea
For wine: a light white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs nicely with the creamy chicken flavors
7. Enjoy the full comfort experience
Take a bite that includes all layers to appreciate the balance of textures
Notice the contrast of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings
8. Serving for gatherings or family dinners
Place the casserole dish directly on the table for family-style serving
Provide a large serving spoon so everyone can scoop their own portion
Garnish the whole dish before placing it on the table for visual appeal
9. Storing and enjoying leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the casserole moist
10. Creative next-day uses
Serve leftovers over mashed potatoes or rice for a different twist
Use as a filling for a savory pot pie topping
Turn into a quick lunch bowl with added vegetables
Final Tip:
This casserole is all about comfort—serve it warm, share it generously, and enjoy it slowly as a cozy, satisfying meal that brings people together.
Nutrition Information:
1 serving (about 1/8 of a 9×13 pan):
Calories: 420 kcal | Total Fat: 26 g | Saturated Fat: 14 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g | Cholesterol: 95 mg | Sodium: 780–920 mg (depending on broth and soup brand) | Total Carbohydrates: 26 g | Dietary Fiber: 1 g | Sugars: 3 g | Protein: 20 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken works best because it’s tender and flavorful.
You can also use leftover roasted or boiled chicken.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Can I substitute the condensed cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
You can also make your own homemade cream of chicken soup.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, you can add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the casserole to make it more of a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if baking from cold.
How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the Chicken and Dumpling Casserole?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the dumplings might change slightly when thawed and reheated.
It’s best to freeze before baking and then bake fresh when ready.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a light green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of mashed potatoes to make a hearty meal.
Can I use low-sodium broth or soup?
Yes, you can use low-sodium chicken broth and cream of chicken soup if you’re watching your salt intake.
Adjust seasoning to taste before baking.
Why shouldn’t I stir the layers?
Not stirring allows the dumplings to form correctly.
The layers need to stay separate for the batter to rise and create the dumpling texture during baking.