Bowl of lighter chicken and dumplings with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Lighter Chicken and Dumplings

ByCasey Monroe

Why make this recipe

Lighter Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that brings warmth and happiness to the table. This version is lighter than traditional recipes, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a classic dish without the extra calories. It’s also quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a homestyle meal.

How to make Lighter Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients:

  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can reduced fat cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can low-fat, low sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup chopped onion
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • 3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – cut into strips
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup sifted all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions:

  1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, stir together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips, onion, and celery. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and the onions are tender.
  3. Transfer the chicken mixture to the soup pot and mix well. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 to 45 minutes. Season with celery seed and black pepper.
  4. To make the dumplings: In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of oil. Pour this into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.
  5. Drop tablespoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering chicken stew. Cover the pot tightly and bring it to a boil. Simmer for another 12 to 15 minutes without peeking!
  6. Ladle the dish into bowls and serve hot.

How to serve Lighter Chicken and Dumplings

Serve Lighter Chicken and Dumplings hot in bowls. It goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How to store Lighter Chicken and Dumplings

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or milk if it becomes too thick.

Tips to make Lighter Chicken and Dumplings

  • Make sure to sauté the chicken and vegetables properly for extra flavor.
  • Don’t skip the simmering time; this helps meld the flavors together.
  • For a bit of freshness, add some chopped parsley or thyme before serving.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like carrots, and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and soup base ahead of time. Just prepare the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.

3. How can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for the dumplings.