Sometimes you want comfort food without all the effort, and that’s where this Cheater Chicken and Dumplings recipe comes in! It’s warm, hearty, and tastes like you’ve been cooking all day—even though you haven’t. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need a bowl of pure, cozy goodness. Let’s explore why this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Cheater Chicken and Dumplings

This recipe is all about keeping things simple while delivering maximum flavor. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
Comforting: Classic flavors that feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
Uses Pantry Staples: Most ingredients are likely already in your kitchen.
Kid-Friendly: A dish the whole family will adore.
Customizable: Add veggies, spices, or herbs to make it your own.

Ingredients in Cheater Chicken and Dumplings

Here’s what you’ll need to create this shortcut version of a classic:

Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: The ultimate time-saver for fluffy, tender dumplings.
Chicken Broth: For a rich, flavorful base.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creaminess and depth.
Vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots for color and nutrition.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme for classic comfort food flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to whip up this cozy dish in no time:

Prepare the Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings. Bring to a simmer.
Add Vegetables and Chicken: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, followed by the shredded chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Dumplings: Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Dumplings: Drop the dough pieces into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 300

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Cheater Chicken and Dumplings

This dish is comfort food at its finest. Here’s how to serve it:

Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper for presentation.
Side Dish: Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Family Style: Serve straight from the pot at the dinner table for a cozy, communal vibe.

For added flair, serve with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the creamy broth.

Additional Tips

Make the most of this recipe with these handy tips:

Use Homemade Stock: If you have homemade chicken stock, it will elevate the dish even more.
Vegetable Variations: Add celery, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker base, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering broth.
Leftover-Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully—just add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more thyme or a pinch of garlic powder if desired.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
A1: Absolutely! Homemade dough will work wonderfully if you have the time.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A3: Yes, but the texture of the dumplings may change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
A4: Use a dairy-free cream soup and check the ingredients on your biscuit dough.
Q5: What can I use instead of biscuit dough?
A5: Try making drop dumplings with a simple flour, milk, and butter mixture.
Q6: Can I add more vegetables?
A6: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like green beans or spinach.
Q7: Can I use raw chicken?
A7: Yes, just cook it in the broth first, then shred and return to the pot before adding dumplings.
Q8: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A8: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
Q9: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A9: Yes! Add all ingredients except the biscuit dough and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add the dough in the last hour.
Q10: Can I make it spicier?
A10: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.

Conclusion

Cheater Chicken and Dumplings is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe delivers all the flavors of the classic dish with a fraction of the effort. It’s a weeknight winner and a family favorite you’ll come back to time and time again. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!