Save A comforting, hearty casserole combining tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings baked in a creamy, savory sauce.
I first made this casserole on a rainy weekend when my family wanted something warm and filling. The rich sauce and soft dumplings quickly became a household favorite.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced
- Carrots: 1 cup, diced
- Celery: 1 cup, diced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (plus 1 cup for dumplings)
- Chicken broth: 2 cups
- Whole milk: 1 cup (plus 1/2 cup for dumplings)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (plus 1/2 teaspoon for dumplings)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Unsalted butter for dumplings: 2 tablespoons, melted
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Start chicken mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Make sauce:
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir 1 minute. Gradually whisk in broth and milk. Cook, stirring, until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add chicken and season:
- Add chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Transfer to dish:
- Spoon mixture into greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Prepare dumplings:
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and milk just until mixed. Fold in parsley if using.
- Add dumplings:
- Drop spoonfuls of dough over chicken mixture evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes. Dumplings should be golden and cooked through.
- Rest and serve:
- Let casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This is one of the first casseroles my kids asked for seconds of. We love serving it family-style at the dinner table.
Required Tools
Large skillet, mixing bowls, whisk, 9x13-inch casserole dish, measuring cups and spoons, oven.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), Milk, Dairy. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 420 calories, 17 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein.
Save This casserole is satisfying and easy for any night. Every bite brings a taste of warmth and comfort.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep dumplings soft and fluffy?
Gently mix the dumpling dough and avoid overworking. Bake uncovered to allow them to cook evenly and become golden.
- → Can I substitute vegetables in the casserole?
Yes, swap peas, carrots, or celery for other favorites like corn or green beans for custom flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to make the dish ahead?
Prepare the chicken mixture and dumpling dough separately, then assemble and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken offers a convenient shortcut. Simply shred and add directly to the casserole mixture.
- → What herbs work well for added flavor?
Thyme is classic, but rosemary or sage can be substituted. Use your favorites to enhance the dish's savory depth.
- → What sides complement this casserole?
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal and lighten the hearty main.