How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Using Bisquick?

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Using Bisquick?

Bisquick chicken and dumplings are a classic comfort food dish made easy! This recipe simplifies the traditional version by using Bisquick for fluffy dumplings, reducing prep time and delivering a satisfying meal everyone will love.

A Comfort Food Classic: Bisquick to the Rescue

Chicken and dumplings. The very words evoke images of cozy kitchens, simmering pots, and the heartwarming aroma of home-cooked goodness. This dish, a staple in Southern cuisine and beyond, has been passed down through generations, each family adding their own unique touch. Traditionally, making dumplings from scratch can be time-consuming, involving precise measurements and a bit of kneading finesse. However, Bisquick, that pantry staple, offers a shortcut to dumpling perfection, allowing even novice cooks to create a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Why Bisquick? The Benefits Outweigh the Tradition

Using Bisquick for your dumplings offers several key advantages:

• Speed and Convenience: Bisquick significantly reduces preparation time. No need to gather numerous ingredients and carefully measure them out.
• Consistent Results: Bisquick provides a consistent texture and rise, ensuring light and fluffy dumplings every time.
• Beginner-Friendly: It’s a foolproof option for those new to cooking or baking. The pre-mixed nature of Bisquick eliminates much of the guesswork.
• Availability: Bisquick is readily available in most supermarkets, making it a convenient choice.

The Recipe: From Pot to Plate

Here’s a straightforward recipe for making delicious chicken and dumplings using Bisquick:

Ingredients:

• 1 Whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs) or 4-5 chicken breasts
• 8 cups Chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 1 cup Diced carrots
• 1 cup Diced celery
• 1/2 cup Diced onion
• 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
• 1 cup Milk

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Place the whole chicken (or chicken breasts) in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add chicken broth (or water), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours (or until chicken is cooked through).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooling, add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the broth in the pot. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Make the Dumplings: In a medium bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix and milk. Stir until just combined – do not overmix. The batter should be slightly sticky.
5. Add the Chicken and Dumplings: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of the Bisquick mixture into the simmering broth, spacing them evenly apart.
6. Cook the Dumplings: Cover the pot and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy in the center. Be sure not to lift the lid during the first 15 minutes!
7. Serve: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with a simplified recipe, some common pitfalls can hinder dumpling perfection. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the Dumpling Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the Bisquick, resulting in tough, dense dumplings. Stir only until just combined.
• Lifting the Lid Too Early: Resist the urge to peek! Lifting the lid while the dumplings are cooking releases steam, which is essential for proper rising and cooking.
• Adding Too Many Dumplings: Overcrowding the pot prevents the dumplings from cooking evenly and can result in sticky, undercooked dumplings. Work in batches if necessary.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Too much liquid will result in soggy dumplings. The broth should be at a simmer, not a rapid boil.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken and dumplings are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Seasoning: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the broth for extra flavor.
• Vegetables: Include other vegetables like potatoes, peas, or corn.
• Creaminess: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
• Chicken Type: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.

Recipe Time Cheat Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use water instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use water, but the flavor will be less intense. If using water, consider adding chicken bouillon cubes or granules to enhance the chicken flavor. Chicken broth adds a richness that water alone cannot replicate.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, significantly reduces the cooking time. Add the pre-cooked chicken to the pot along with the vegetables. This cuts the total cook time nearly in half.

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

It’s not recommended to make the dumplings ahead of time. The Bisquick batter is best used immediately after mixing. Otherwise, the dumplings will be tough and not rise properly. Dumplings are best made fresh.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are done when they are cooked through and no longer doughy in the center. You can test them by inserting a toothpick into the center of a dumpling. If it comes out clean, the dumpling is cooked. They should also appear puffy and slightly golden brown.

Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

Yes, but the texture of the dumplings may change slightly after freezing. To freeze, let the chicken and dumplings cool completely. Then, transfer them to freezer-safe containers or bags. They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 months.

How do I reheat chicken and dumplings?

Reheat chicken and dumplings on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or water if needed to prevent them from drying out. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the dumplings may become a bit rubbery. Stovetop reheating yields the best results.

Can I use Bisquick Heart Smart mix?

Yes, Bisquick Heart Smart mix can be used as a healthier alternative. The taste and texture will be very similar to the original Bisquick mix. It’s a great option for those watching their fat intake.

What if my dumplings are too dense?

Dense dumplings are usually caused by overmixing the batter or using too much Bisquick. Remember to stir only until just combined. You can also try adding a little extra milk to the batter to make it slightly thinner. A looser batter is key for light dumplings.

What if my dumplings are too soggy?

Soggy dumplings are often the result of too much liquid in the pot or not simmering the dumplings long enough. Make sure the broth is at a simmer, not a rapid boil, and cook the dumplings until they are cooked through. Excess moisture will lead to soggy results.

Can I add cheese to the dumplings?

Yes, adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the dumpling batter can add extra flavor and texture. About 1/2 cup of cheese per batch of dumplings is usually sufficient. Consider complementary cheese flavors to the broth.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, chicken and dumplings can be made in a slow cooker. First, cook the chicken in the slow cooker with the broth and vegetables. Then, during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking time, drop the dumpling batter into the slow cooker and cook until the dumplings are done. Be careful not to overcook the dumplings in the slow cooker.

Can I make this gluten-free?

You can make gluten-free chicken and dumplings by using a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. Look for gluten-free Bisquick alternatives or other gluten-free baking mixes that are suitable for making dumplings. Always check the label to ensure the mix is gluten-free.

Ready to Level Up Your Cooking? Watch This Now!