Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

Introduction

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines hearty textures with rich, familiar flavors. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and soft dumplings are brought together in a creamy cheddar-infused broth that feels both nourishing and indulgent. This recipe takes inspiration from classic chicken and dumplings while adding broccoli and sharp cheddar for extra depth and warmth. I particularly enjoy how this dish balances richness with freshness, as the broccoli cuts through the creaminess and keeps the flavors from feeling too heavy. I have made this recipe on colder evenings when a filling, homemade meal was needed, and it consistently delivers satisfaction. The dumplings cook directly in the broth, soaking up flavor while remaining soft and pillowy. If you are looking for a comforting dish that feels generous and complete in a single bowl, this recipe is an excellent choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is hearty, flavorful, and made in one pot for easy preparation and cleanup. It delivers classic comfort food appeal with the added richness of cheddar and the freshness of broccoli, making it both satisfying and balanced.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken
Chicken provides the main source of protein and creates a savory base for the dish. Boneless pieces cook quickly and remain tender.

Broccoli florets
Broccoli adds color, texture, and freshness. It balances the creamy broth and contributes nutrients.

Butter
Butter forms the foundation of the sauce and adds richness and depth of flavor.

Onion
Onion builds the aromatic base and adds subtle sweetness to the broth.

Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory profile and complements the cheddar cheese.

All-purpose flour
Flour thickens the broth, creating a creamy consistency that coats the chicken and dumplings.

Chicken broth
Chicken broth provides structure and savory depth, forming the liquid base of the dish.

Milk
Milk adds creaminess and softens the sharpness of the cheddar.

Cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese gives the dish its signature flavor, adding richness and a comforting sharp note.

Baking powder
Baking powder helps the dumplings rise and remain light during cooking.

Dumpling flour
Flour forms the structure of the dumplings, allowing them to cook up soft and tender.

Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and ensures balance throughout the dish.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and depth.

Directions

Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on the outside. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Stir in the broccoli florets and allow them to cook until just tender. Add the cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted and the broth becomes creamy.

In a separate bowl, mix dumpling flour, baking powder, salt, and milk until a soft dough forms. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough gently onto the simmering broth. Cover the pot and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, without lifting the lid, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Serve hot.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes.
Cooking time is about 40 minutes.
Total time is around 1 hour.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small amount of broth or milk if the mixture thickens too much.

Variations and Customizations

This dish is easy to adapt depending on preferences and ingredients on hand. For extra depth, you can add carrots or celery along with the onion to build a stronger base flavor.

If you prefer a sharper cheese profile, use a mature cheddar or combine cheddar with a small amount of Parmesan. For a milder version, reduce the cheese slightly and increase the milk.

I have also prepared this recipe using leftover cooked chicken, adding it later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking. This works particularly well for reducing preparation time.

For a lighter variation, substitute part of the milk with additional broth, resulting in a thinner but still flavorful sauce.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides protein from chicken, calcium from cheese and milk, and vitamins from broccoli. While it is rich and filling, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when paired with lighter meals throughout the day.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Gentle simmer
Keep the broth at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling and ensure tender dumplings.

Do not uncover
Leaving the lid on while cooking dumplings helps them steam properly.

Cheese control
Add cheese gradually to maintain a smooth texture.

Broccoli timing
Add broccoli later in cooking to preserve color and texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add it later in the cooking process to avoid drying it out.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended, as dumplings can become dense when reheated.

Why are my dumplings dense?

Overmixing the dough or uncovering during cooking can affect texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, add it near the end and adjust cooking time slightly.

What cheddar works best?

Sharp or medium cheddar provides the best flavor balance.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour blends suitable for sauces and dumplings.

How thick should the broth be?

It should be creamy but spoonable, not overly thick.

Can I add herbs?

Yes, thyme or parsley work well.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, it is mild, comforting, and family-friendly.

What can I serve with this dish?

It is a complete meal on its own, but a simple salad pairs well.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Dumplings is a deeply comforting dish that brings together creamy textures, hearty ingredients, and familiar flavors in one pot. With its tender chicken, soft dumplings, and rich cheddar broth, this recipe offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite, making it a dependable choice for comforting home cooking.

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