Remember those cozy, comforting bowls of chicken and dumplings that warmed you up on a chilly evening? That rich, savory broth and those fluffy, doughy bites are pure nostalgia for many of us. But let’s be honest: actually making them from scratch takes time, effort, and a good recipe. When the craving hits fast, many of us turn to the convenience of a can.
However, opening a can of pre-made chicken and dumplings can be a gamble. Will the broth be watery? Are the dumplings tough little rocks? Choosing the best canned version feels like a frustrating treasure hunt on the grocery aisle. You want that classic comfort without the disappointment of a subpar meal.
This post dives deep into the world of canned chicken and dumplings. We will break down what makes a truly great canned version, compare popular brands, and offer simple tips to elevate that humble can into a satisfying dinner. Get ready to find your new pantry staple!
Top Canned Chicken And Dumplings Recommendations
- Twelve (12) 10.5 oz cans of Swanson Canned Chicken and Dumplings With White and Dark Chicken Meat
- A convenient take on a classic Southern comfort food, featuring spaetzle dumplings and tender chicken chunks in a light, creamy sauce
- Contains chicken breast meat with no antibiotics
- HOMEMADE TASTE CHICKEN & DUMPLINGS: Ready-to-eat, made from scratch recipe chicken and dumplings will satisfy you when you want a tasty and healthy snack, lunch or dinner
- GOOD SOURCE OF PROTEIN WITH DELICIOUS TASTE: This 24 ounce can of Sweet Sue made from scratch chicken and dumplings contains 14 grams of protein per serving
- CONVENIENT PANTRY INGREDIENT: Enjoy a can of ready-to-eat, Southern chicken and dumplings as a great-tasting, protein-packed meal full of premium chicken and made from scratch dumplings
- Campbell's Chunky Soup: One 18.8 oz can of Campbell’s Chunky Creamy Chicken and Dumplings Soup
- Big Flavors: Chicken soup crafted with chicken meat without antibiotics, chunks of carrots and celery, and savory dumplings for a delicious and filling comfort food classic
- 16 grams of Protein: Hearty soup that has vegetables and 16 grams of protein in each can
- One (1) 10.5 oz can of Swanson Canned Chicken and Dumplings With White and Dark Chicken Meat
- A convenient take on a classic Southern comfort food, featuring spaetzle dumplings and tender chicken chunks in a light, creamy sauce
- Contains chicken breast meat with no antibiotics
- 11 grams of protein per serving
- No preservatives added
- Every can is loaded with hearty chunks of meat and vegetables
Your Guide to Snagging the Best Canned Chicken and Dumplings
Canned chicken and dumplings offer a quick, comforting meal. It tastes like home cooking but takes just minutes to heat up. Choosing the right can, however, requires knowing what to look for. This guide helps you pick the tastiest option on the shelf.
Key Features to Look For
When you pick up a can, check these things first. These features tell you a lot about the meal inside.
- **Chicken Content:** Look at the ingredient list. Good canned versions show “chicken” near the top. More chicken means a better meal. Avoid cans where water or broth is the first ingredient listed.
- **Dumpling Texture:** The dumplings should look fluffy, not flat or mushy. Read reviews if possible. Soggy dumplings ruin the experience.
- **Broth Thickness:** The broth should be creamy and rich, not watery. A thicker broth holds the flavor better.
- **Sodium Level:** Canned foods often have high salt. If you watch your salt intake, look for “low sodium” options.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The best can uses simple, recognizable ingredients. Think about what your grandma would put in her pot.
The Chicken
Most cans use white meat chicken, which is great. Sometimes, they use mechanically separated chicken, which is less desirable. Always try to find cans listing recognizable cuts of meat.
The Dumplings
Dumplings are usually made from enriched flour, water, and sometimes eggs. High-quality dumplings use real eggs and minimal preservatives. Watch out for too many artificial colors or flavors.
The Broth Base
A good broth uses real chicken stock, vegetables (like carrots and celery), and seasonings. If the ingredients list is full of chemical-sounding names, put it back. Simple is usually better for comfort food.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one can taste amazing and another taste like cardboard? A few key details change the quality a lot.
Quality Boosters
- **Real Vegetables:** Cans that include visible pieces of carrots, celery, or peas taste fresher.
- **Herbs and Spices:** The presence of real thyme or parsley boosts the flavor profile significantly.
- **Creaminess:** A broth thickened with actual cream or a roux (flour and fat) tastes much richer than one thickened with starches.
Quality Reducers
- **Excess Water/Broth:** If the can is mostly liquid, the flavor gets diluted. You are paying for water, not chicken.
- **Artificial Flavors:** These mask lower-quality ingredients. Your taste buds can usually tell the difference.
- **Overcooked Ingredients:** If the chicken looks stringy or the dumplings break apart too easily when you stir them, the quality has dropped.
User Experience and Use Cases
Canned chicken and dumplings excel in convenience. Understanding when and how to use them maximizes your enjoyment.
Perfect Use Cases
- **Emergency Meals:** Keep a few cans stocked for nights when cooking is impossible.
- **Quick Lunch:** It heats up in the microwave in under three minutes. This is perfect for a fast, hot lunch at work (if you have access to a microwave).
- **Base for Customization:** Use the canned version as a starting point. Adding fresh pepper, a swirl of cream, or even a dash of hot sauce improves it instantly.
Tips for Better Eating
Never eat it straight from the can! Always heat it thoroughly in a pot on the stove if possible. Stirring it gently as it heats helps redistribute the ingredients. A sprinkle of fresh black pepper on top makes a huge difference in the final taste experience.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Canned Chicken and Dumplings
Q: How long does canned chicken and dumplings last?
A: If unopened, these cans usually last for two to three years past the printed date. Always check the can for any signs of bulging or damage before opening.
Q: Do I need to add water when heating it?
A: Generally, no. The liquid content is usually perfect. Only add a splash of water or broth if you find the mixture is much thicker than you prefer after heating.
Q: Are canned dumplings the same as homemade dumplings?
A: No. Canned dumplings are usually dense and soft because they cook fully in the sealed environment. Homemade dumplings are lighter and fluffier.
Q: Can I freeze leftover canned chicken and dumplings?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Transfer the unused portion to a freezer-safe container first. The texture might change slightly upon thawing, especially the dumplings.
Q: Which brands usually have the most actual chicken pieces?
A: Mid-to-high-priced brands often include more visible chunks of white meat. Check the front label for phrases like “chunky” or “all white meat.”
Q: Is canned chicken and dumplings a healthy meal?
A: It is filling and provides protein, but it is often high in sodium and sometimes fat. It serves best as an occasional convenience food, not a daily staple.
Q: What is the best way to improve the flavor instantly?
A: Stirring in a teaspoon of dried herbs like sage or thyme while heating works wonders. A little bit of onion powder also helps boost the savory notes.
Q: Why do the dumplings sometimes break apart when I heat them?
A: Overheating or stirring too vigorously causes them to fall apart. Heat gently on low to medium heat and stir only when necessary.
Q: Should I look for cans containing vegetables?
A: Yes. Cans that include carrots and celery add necessary color, texture, and a fresher taste to the overall dish.
Q: Is this product suitable for vegetarians?
A: Absolutely not. This product contains real chicken and chicken broth, making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!