Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

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When I first made this Chicken and Dumplings Casserole, it was meant to be a comforting meal for a rainy evening. I never expected it to become such a staple in my kitchen. The simplicity of layering ingredients and letting the oven do all the hard work is what won me over. It’s everything I love about the classic Southern chicken and dumplings—creamy filling, tender chicken, fluffy biscuit topping—but in a much more convenient form.

I find this casserole to be a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. It has that nostalgic, homestyle flavor that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m serving it to picky kids or hungry adults, it never fails to get rave reviews. If you’ve ever craved that made-from-scratch taste without the mess and effort, this is the recipe you need.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

This casserole is the ultimate comfort food made easy. It requires minimal prep, no rolling or cutting of dough, and no standing over a hot stove. The biscuit topping rises beautifully in the oven and soaks up the savory chicken filling beneath it. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use cooked rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even poached boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer using shredded rotisserie chicken for both the convenience and added flavor. It makes the whole process faster while still giving you a rich, savory filling.

Options for Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap with turkey for a post-holiday twist.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
• Milk: Substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess, or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
• Biscuit Mix: A homemade biscuit dough or crescent roll dough works well too.
• Butter: Use plant-based butter if you’re avoiding dairy.

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Ingredients for this Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

• Cooked Shredded Chicken: The heart of the dish. Use about 2 to 3 cups of tender, shredded chicken for a satisfying, protein-rich base.
• Butter: Melted and poured over the chicken, it adds richness and depth to the filling.
• Self-Rising Flour: Helps form the dumpling topping that puffs up beautifully in the oven.
• Milk: Combines with the flour to create a smooth, pourable batter for the dumplings.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and savory depth to the casserole layers.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides a creamy, flavorful base for the filling.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Optional: Chopped Fresh Parsley or Green Onions: For garnish and a hint of fresh flavor.

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Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and that the biscuit topping rises properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken

Spread the shredded cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms the hearty base layer of your casserole.

Step 4: Add the Melted Butter

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the chicken. This adds moisture and a rich, buttery flavor to every bite.

Step 5: Mix the Dumpling Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture slowly and evenly over the chicken layer. Do not stir!

Step 6: Combine Broth and Soup

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth and fully combined.

Step 7: Pour the Soup Mixture

Gently pour the soup mixture over the flour batter layer. Again, resist the urge to stir—this layering is key to the dumpling-like texture.

Step 8: Bake

Carefully place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. The top should be golden and puffy, while the filling beneath is bubbling and creamy.

Step 9: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top before serving, if desired. Scoop generously into bowls and enjoy!

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How Long to Prepare the Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

Prep Time

The prep is surprisingly simple and should take about 10 to 15 minutes. If your chicken is already cooked and shredded, it’s mostly a matter of mixing and layering ingredients. Having everything measured and ready before you begin speeds things up even more.

Cook Time

The casserole needs to bake for 45 to 50 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F. This gives the dumpling topping enough time to rise and become golden brown, while the filling underneath becomes creamy and bubbly. A short resting period of 5 to 10 minutes afterward allows everything to settle nicely.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings Casserole

• Use room temperature milk for a smoother batter.
• Don’t stir the layers after pouring—this is what creates the dumpling texture.
• Place the baking dish on a rimmed sheet tray to catch any potential overflow.
• Let the casserole rest before serving so the layers firm up.
• Taste the filling before baking and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Stirring the layers: This will ruin the separation needed for the dumpling texture.
• Using raw chicken: Always use pre-cooked chicken. Raw chicken won’t cook properly in this layered format.
• Skipping the resting time: This can make the casserole too runny when served.
• Overbaking: The top should be golden, not dark brown. Check at the 45-minute mark.
• Too much liquid: Stick to the recommended amounts to avoid a soupy consistency.

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What to Serve With Chicken and Dumplings Casserole?

1. Simple Garden Salad

A crisp salad with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast.

2. Roasted Green Beans

Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for a flavorful veggie side.

3. Southern-Style Collard Greens

Hearty, savory greens complement the creamy casserole perfectly.

4. Cranberry Sauce

The sweet-tart flavor pairs surprisingly well with the rich casserole base.

5. Buttermilk Biscuits

If you’re feeding a big group, extra biscuits on the side are always welcome.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until bubbly.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Cholesterol: 95mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even make a homemade roux-based sauce with broth and milk.

Can I use biscuit dough instead of making the batter?

Yes, refrigerated biscuit dough can be cut into pieces and added on top. It will bake into fluffy dumplings.

Is it okay to make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the layers and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Let sit at room temp for 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.

How do I know when it’s fully cooked?

The top should be golden brown and the edges should be bubbling. You can also insert a toothpick into the dumpling topping—if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend and ensure your soup and broth are gluten-free as well.

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Conclusion

Chicken and Dumplings Casserole is the perfect dish when you’re craving something warm, filling, and easy to make. It captures all the cozy flavors of a traditional recipe, minus the effort and mess. With just a few basic ingredients and simple layering, you get a golden, fluffy top and a creamy, savory filling underneath. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or meal prep, this casserole is guaranteed to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table.

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