I absolutely love sharing this Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with you because it’s one of those comforting meals that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how tender the dumplings turned out without any gluten, and the chicken broth is so flavorful thanks to a mix of herbs and that slow simmer. You’ll find that this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you need that soul-soothing dish on the table quickly.
This recipe also shines because it’s straightforward yet hearty, making it ideal for family gatherings or even meal prep. Whether you’re new to gluten-free cooking or just looking for a cozy dinner idea, this Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a total winner – trust me, once you try it, your family will go crazy for it too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Classic Feel: Delivers that nostalgia of traditional chicken and dumplings without the gluten.
- Quick and Easy: Uses simple ingredients and premade cooked chicken for a fast weeknight meal.
- Versatile and Allergy-Friendly: With dairy-free options and gluten-free certification, it’s great for various diets.
- Fluffy, Tender Dumplings: The secret to light dumplings is in the gentle simmer and perfect batter consistency.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything in this Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is chosen to balance rich flavors and tender textures, making the dish both hearty and satisfying. Shopping tip: look for gluten-free labels and use fresh or frozen veggies you love for extra freshness.
- Cooked skinless chicken breasts: Rotisserie chicken is a huge time saver, but boiled chicken works great too.
- Gluten-free chicken broth: Use a good-quality broth for deep flavor; homemade if you can, or store-bought is fine.
- Gluten-free frozen mixed vegetables: A colorful mix adds both nutrients and texture.
- Dried sage: Adds that classic, warm herbal note I love in poultry dishes.
- Dried thyme: Complements sage perfectly and gives the broth extra depth.
- Onion powder: For a subtle sweetness and savoriness without chopping onions.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the broth and dumplings.
- Milk (or dairy-free milk): I often use cashew milk for its creaminess without overpowering the dish.
- Gluten-free cornstarch: This thickens your broth without lumps-just whisk well!
- Bisquick Gluten Free mix: The key to light, fluffy dumplings that hold together perfectly.
- Eggs: They bind the dumplings and enrich the flavor.
- Unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative): Adds richness; I like using coconut oil when dairy-free.
Variations
I love how adaptable this Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is. You can make it your own by swapping veggies, using different herbs, or adjusting dairy ingredients to suit your preferences – feel free to experiment and find what you enjoy most.
- Vegetable Variations: Adding mushrooms or celery gives an earthy or crisp bite, both of which my family enjoys in the colder months.
- Herb Swaps: I’ve swapped thyme for rosemary when I want a woodsy twist that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Dairy-Free Version: Using coconut milk and oil creates a deliciously creamy broth and dumplings that are kind on sensitive stomachs.
- Spicy Kick: For a little heat, I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the broth – it’s unexpected but cozy.
How to Make Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth and Chicken
Start by combining your gluten-free chicken broth, diced chicken, frozen mixed veggies, dried sage, thyme, and onion powder in a large pot. Heat it over medium until it reaches a low boil, letting all those flavors mingle. Don t rush this step – the herbs need a minute or two to wake up and infuse the broth with warmth.
Step 2: Create the Thickening Mixture and Add to Broth
While the broth s coming to life, whisk together your milk and gluten-free cornstarch in a small bowl until it s smooth and lump-free. This little mix is your secret to a silky, thickened broth. Pour it carefully into the simmering pot and stir well. Bring it back to a gentle boil so it thickens nicely – you ll start seeing the broth get a comforting, stew-like consistency.
Step 3: Mix the Dumpling Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until they re nicely blended, then stir in the gluten-free Bisquick mix. Follow with melted butter and milk, stirring until you have a sticky, uniform batter. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned but still soft to the touch – like a cozy little cloud waiting to be cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings in the Broth
Drop heaping spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the bubbling broth – I find an ice cream scoop works perfectly for evenly sized dumplings. Once they re in, reduce the heat to low so the pot simmers gently. Don t cover it right away – let the dumplings set uncovered for about 10 minutes so they firm up just right without sticking together.
Step 5: Simmer Covered Until Dumplings Are Fluffy
After the initial 10 minutes, pop the lid on and let everything cook on low for another 15 minutes. This steams the dumplings internally, making them perfectly tender and fluffy – the part I absolutely love. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often; patience here means mouthwatering results.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Turn off the heat and scoop generous portions of the broth, veggies, chicken, and dumplings into bowls. I like to serve it immediately while it s steaming hot – trust me, this recipe tastes best fresh from the pot. Watch your loved ones dig in and tell you how good it tastes; it s always a crowd-pleaser!
Pro Tips for Making Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It cuts your prep time dramatically and adds great flavor from the start.
- Whisk Cornstarch Thoroughly: I learned the hard way that lumps ruin the texture, so take your time mixing it well.
- Gentle Simmering Is Key: Too much heat makes dumplings tough, so keep it low and steady for fluffiness.
- Let Dumplings Steam Properly: Covering too early traps moisture, but busy cooks shouldn’t peek too often either – trust the process!
How to Serve Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep garnishes simple with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper on top add just the right peppery zing. These little extras take the dish from homey to a bit special without overwhelming the cozy flavors.
Side Dishes
Since this Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is such a complete meal on its own, I often keep sides light – a crisp green salad or steamed green beans pair beautifully. For a heartier meal, garlic roasted potatoes or gluten-free cornbread complement the flavors perfectly and soak up the delicious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
One family gathering, I served this dish in rustic soup bowls with a little crusty gluten-free bread on the side and a dollop of herb-infused sour cream on top – it was a hit! For a cozy winter party, I ladled it into mini ramekins and baked with a flaky gluten-free puff pastry lid for sweet presentation and extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where they keep beautifully for up to 3 days. When packing it away, I try to keep the dumplings and broth as one dish to maintain that comforting texture – separating them can dry out the dumplings.
Freezing
I ve frozen this recipe successfully in freezer-safe containers. It s best to freeze before adding the dumplings if you want the fluffiest texture later – you can always cook fresh dumplings when reheating. If freezing after cooking, just be aware the dumplings might soften slightly but still taste delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, I gently warm leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and keep the broth creamy. Avoid the microwave if you can – it tends to change dumpling texture. If the mixture thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up before serving.
FAQs
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Can I make this Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the milk with any dairy-free alternative like cashew, coconut, or almond milk, and replace butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil. The recipe works just as well and tastes delicious without any dairy.
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What can I use instead of Bisquick Gluten Free for dumplings?
If you can t find Bisquick Gluten Free, a mixture of gluten-free all-purpose flour with baking powder and a pinch of salt works well for your dumplings. Just adjust the liquid slightly to get the right batter consistency – sticky but not runny.
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How do I avoid dumplings sticking together?
Space your dumpling spoonfuls apart carefully when dropping them into the broth and avoid stirring once they re in the pot. Keeping the broth at a gentle simmer instead of a roaring boil also helps keep them separate and fluffy.
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Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried since fresh herbs are less concentrated. They add a bright flavor but may change the broth’s character slightly, which is lovely too.
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Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze it, preferably before adding dumplings for best texture. If freezing after cooking, the dumplings might soften but still taste great. Make sure to store in airtight containers for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe remains one of my kitchen favorites because it s just so reliably comforting and delicious, even on busy or unpredictable days. I love how it brings people together around the table with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. If you re looking for a hearty, gluten-free meal that feels like a homemade hug, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try – you won t regret it!
PrintGluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This comforting Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings recipe combines tender diced chicken, a flavorful gluten-free broth with mixed vegetables, and soft, fluffy gluten-free dumplings. Perfect for those avoiding gluten or dairy, it uses simple ingredients and dairy-free alternatives to make a hearty, home-cooked meal in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 3–4 cups cooked skinless chicken breasts, diced (rotisserie or boiled)
- 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth
- 2 cups gluten-free frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy-free options: cashew, coconut, or almond milk)
- 6 tablespoons gluten-free cornstarch
Dumplings
- 1 1/2 cups Bisquick Gluten Free mix
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 2/3 cup milk (dairy-free options: cashew, coconut, or almond milk)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (dairy-free alternatives: Smart Balance, Earth Balance butter, or coconut oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth and chicken: In a large pot, combine the gluten-free chicken broth, diced cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, dried sage, dried thyme, and onion powder. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Create the thickening mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and gluten-free cornstarch until the cornstarch is completely dissolved to avoid lumps. Pour this mixture into the large pot with the chicken broth and stir thoroughly. Continue to bring the broth to a boil.
- Make the dumpling batter: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the gluten-free Bisquick mix to the eggs and stir until combined. Then, add the melted butter and milk to the mixture, stirring until the batter is sticky and uniform in texture.
- Cook the dumplings: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the boiling chicken broth mixture. Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook the dumplings uncovered for 10 minutes to allow them to set and cook through.
- Simmer covered: Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for an additional 15 minutes on low heat. This ensures the dumplings steam and become fluffy and tender.
- Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the chicken, vegetables, and dumplings into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting gluten-free meal!
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil your chicken breasts if preferred.
- Dairy-free milk and butter alternatives are recommended for lactose intolerance or vegan preferences.
- When dropping dumplings, an ice cream scoop helps create uniformly sized dumplings.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure all products are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg