🥦🧀 Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings
A Hearty, Comfort-Filled One-Pot Meal
We present Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings, a rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and pillowy dumplings in a creamy, savory broth. This meal delivers warmth, balance, and deep flavor in every bite, making it ideal for family dinners, cold evenings, or anytime comfort food is needed.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
For the Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Preparing the Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
This step ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Building the Creamy Soup Base
In the same pot, add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Season with thyme, additional salt, and pepper if needed. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Adding Broccoli and Cheddar
Stir in the broccoli florets and simmer for 5 minutes, just until tender but still vibrant. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix well.
Making the Dumplings
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
Using a spoon, drop small portions of dumpling dough directly onto the simmering soup. Leave space between dumplings, as they will expand.
Cooking the Dumplings
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for cooking the dumplings fully.
After cooking, the dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through.
Final Touches and Serving
Gently stir the soup to ensure even distribution. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with:
- Extra shredded cheddar
- Fresh parsley
- Cracked black pepper
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread or biscuits
- A simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
It is a complete meal on its own, offering protein, vegetables, and comforting starch in every bowl.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup if needed.
Why This Recipe Works
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings succeeds through thoughtful layering of flavors and textures. The creamy cheddar base balances the freshness of broccoli, while the dumplings provide soft, comforting contrast. Each component complements the others, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet well-rounded.
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings recipe delivers timeless comfort with modern balance, making it a reliable favorite for cozy meals and memorable gatherings.