Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings (The Cozy Shortcut Version You’ll Make on Repeat)
There are some recipes that feel like a hug in a bowl — the kind you make when it’s cold outside, when life feels loud, or when you just need something warm and familiar without a lot of fuss. This super easy chicken and dumplings recipe is one of those forever favorites around here at The Last Resort Lake House.
This is not the “stand in the kitchen all day rolling dough” version. This is the real life, busy-day, tired-but-still-want-homemade comfort food version. The kind that lets you get dinner on the table without dirtying every pot you own or Googling substitutions halfway through.
And yes… it uses biscuit dough. And no, we’re not apologizing for that. 😉
If you’ve ever thought:
I love chicken and dumplings but they take too long I don’t have time for complicated recipes I just want something cozy and filling My people want comfort food now then this recipe is about to become a regular in your rotation.
Why This Easy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Works
Let’s talk about why this version works so well — especially for busy women, tired moms, empty nesters, or anyone who just wants dinner handled.
This recipe:
Uses simple pantry staples Comes together in about 20 minutes Has no fancy prep Uses store-bought biscuit dough (the secret weapon) Is creamy, cozy, and forgiving Tastes like you cooked all afternoon
It’s the kind of meal that feels nostalgic without being complicated. The kind your family asks for again. The kind you keep in your back pocket for cold nights, sick days, or when you just want something warm and comforting in a bowl.
And honestly? This one tastes even better curled up on the couch with a blanket and your favorite show.
A Little Backstory (Because Food Is Never Just Food)
Chicken and dumplings has always been one of those “memory meals.” The kind of dish tied to family kitchens, big pots on the stove, and the smell of something good simmering away.
But let’s be real — most of us don’t have hours to spare anymore. We still want that comforting feeling, just without the stress.
That’s exactly how this shortcut version came to life. I wanted something:
Easy enough for a weeknight Cozy enough for Sunday Flexible enough to use what I already had Foolproof enough that it always turns out
This version checks every single box.
And when I tell you it disappears fast? It disappears fast.
Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings (Shortcut Version)
Ingredients
You only need a handful of simple ingredients:
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup 3 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth 3 cups shredded cooked chicken 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
That’s it. Four ingredients. No measuring cups drama. No special equipment.
You can absolutely customize from here (we’ll talk about that in a bit), but this base version is pure comfort.
How to Make Super Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Start the base
In a large saucepan or pot, stir together the condensed cream of celery soup and the chicken broth over medium-high heat. Stir until smooth and let it come to a gentle simmer.
This creates that creamy, savory base that makes the whole dish feel like a hug.
Step 2: Prep the biscuit dumplings
Take your refrigerated biscuit dough and flatten each biscuit slightly in your hands. Then pinch or cut each one into quarters.
Don’t overthink this part — rustic is the goal here.
Step 3: Add the dumplings
Gently drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering broth. Give everything a gentle stir so they don’t stick together.
You’ll start to see them puff and float, which is always a good sign.
Step 4: Add the chicken
Stir in your shredded cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and saves time, but any cooked chicken will do.
Step 5: Simmer and let the magic happen
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let everything simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the biscuit pieces are cooked through and tender in the center.
Give it an occasional gentle stir so nothing sticks.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Ladle into bowls, grab a spoon, and enjoy every cozy bite.
What Makes These Dumplings So Good
There’s something about biscuit dough that just gets it right. It cooks up soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy — the perfect texture for soaking up that creamy broth.
This recipe gives you:
Thick, comforting broth Tender chicken Soft dumplings Big flavor with minimal effort
And because the ingredient list is short, it’s incredibly forgiving.
Easy Ways to Customize This Recipe
One of the best things about this chicken and dumplings recipe is how flexible it is. You can tweak it depending on what’s in your fridge or who you’re feeding.
Want more flavor?
Add a little garlic powder or onion powder Sprinkle in poultry seasoning Add black pepper or a pinch of paprika
Want veggies?
Stir in:
Frozen peas Diced carrots Corn Mixed vegetables
Add them when you add the chicken so they heat through.
Want it extra creamy?
Stir in a splash of milk or half-and-half Add a spoonful of sour cream at the end
Want a thicker broth?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mash a few dumpling pieces gently against the side of the pot.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This recipe is best fresh, but leftovers still reheat beautifully.
To store:
Let cool completely Store in an airtight container Refrigerate up to 3 days
To reheat:
Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much
This is one of those dishes that somehow tastes even cozier the next day.
Perfect for Busy Nights, Cold Days, and Everything in Between
This is the kind of recipe that saves you on:
Busy weeknights Cold evenings Long days “I don’t feel like cooking” moods Last-minute dinner decisions
It’s simple, comforting, and dependable — exactly the kind of food that belongs in a well-loved recipe box.
And honestly? It’s one of those meals that makes people feel taken care of. The kind that brings everyone to the kitchen asking, “What smells so good?”
A Little Tip From My Kitchen to Yours
If you’re new around here, you’ll quickly learn that I love recipes that:
Don’t require perfection Use what you already have Actually get made again Make life easier
This chicken and dumplings recipe checks every box.
It’s cozy, forgiving, and downright comforting — and it’s exactly the kind of meal I make when I want something warm without a lot of effort.
Save This One for Later 💛
If you’re building a go-to list of easy dinners, this one deserves a spot. It’s simple enough for beginners, comforting enough for seasoned cooks, and flexible enough to make your own.
You can always find more cozy, family-friendly recipes like this over on my site:
👉 https://thelastresortlakehouse.com/
I share easy dinners, nostalgic favorites, and real-life recipes that actually work for busy days.
Thanks for being here, friend — and I hope this one brings a little extra comfort to your table.
Love always,
Tracy 💛
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