Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings – Creamy Comfort Food Dinner

Introduction

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food mashup—combining the rich, creamy flavors of broccoli cheddar soup with hearty chicken and soft, pillowy dumplings. This dish is warm, filling, and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and homemade.

What makes this recipe so special is the balance of textures and flavors. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese create a savory base, while fluffy dumplings soak up the creamy broth and add classic comfort. It’s a one-pot meal that feels indulgent yet familiar, perfect for feeding hungry families without complicated steps.

This dish is also incredibly flexible. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, fresh or frozen broccoli, and homemade or shortcut dumplings. No matter how you make it, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings delivers rich flavor and cozy satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients
For the Soup Base

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

4 cups chicken broth

2 cups milk or half-and-half

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Dumplings

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup milk

2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Add the cooked chicken and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Pour in the milk or half-and-half and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg if using.

Step 3: Add Broccoli and Cheese

Stir in the broccoli florets and simmer for 5–7 minutes until tender. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering soup. Cover the pot and cook for 15–18 minutes, without lifting the lid, until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Variation

Rotisserie Chicken Version: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for quick prep.

Extra Cheesy: Add an extra ½ cup cheddar or mix in Monterey Jack.

Low-Carb Option: Skip dumplings and add cauliflower florets instead.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.

Herb Dumplings: Mix fresh parsley or thyme into the dumpling dough.

Cooking Note

Do not uncover the pot while the dumplings cook. Steam is essential for light, fluffy dumplings. Stirring or lifting the lid can cause them to collapse or cook unevenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings hot with crusty bread, biscuits, or a simple green salad. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with light sides for balance.

Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting.

Keep heat low once cheese is added to prevent curdling.

Cut broccoli into small florets for even cooking.

Don’t overcrowd dumplings—space them out in the pot.

Leftovers thicken as they sit; add broth when reheating.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 460

Protein: 28 g

Sodium: 720 mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it directly to the soup.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but dumplings are best fresh. Reheat gently with added broth.

Can I use canned biscuit dough for dumplings?
Yes, cut into small pieces and drop into the soup.

Why are my dumplings dense?
Overmixing the dough or lifting the lid while cooking can cause dense dumplings.

Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy and dumplings.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings is comfort food at its finest—creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. With tender chicken, melty cheddar, wholesome broccoli, and fluffy dumplings all in one pot, this dish is guaranteed to warm both hearts and bellies. Easy to make and deeply satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again when comfort is calling. 🥦🧀🍲

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