Ever crave keto chicken and dumplings but get hit with that stubborn “but it’s not low carb” roadblock? Yep, been there. Nothing is worse than watching everyone else slurp up a bowl of pure comfort… and you’re poking at sad lettuce, dreaming of fluffy dumplings. Been so cold lately too! The good news? You don’t have to skip out anymore. This easy, family-favorite keto chicken and dumplings recipe proves you can have serious comfort without blowing your carb count. Honestly, it’s a go-to for my picky crew — no complaints, just empty bowls. Oh, and by the way, if you want another favorite soup-night star, try this easy keto chicken and dumplings for a cozy night in. 
How to Make Keto Chicken and Dumplings
Okay let’s get into the real talk: how do you actually pull off keto chicken and dumplings? I promise, it’s not food-science class. Honestly, you sauté up some chicken and veggies in a big pot first (or heck, use a rotisserie chicken if you’re feeling wild). You let everything simmer in a rich-as-can-be low-carb broth.
Here’s where it gets kind of magical. You make these easy dumplings with almond flour and a bit of baking powder so they puff up instead of turning into sad, dense hockey pucks. Drop spoonfuls of dough right onto the bubbling soup — like little clouds — and cover up for the last chunk of cooking. (It steams those dumplings right on top!)
Give the whole thing a final taste, toss in a handful of fresh herbs if you’re the fancy sort, and that’s it! Real spoonfuls of keto chicken and dumplings you actually want seconds of.
“My husband couldn’t believe these were low carb,” says Becky from Wisconsin. “This recipe is on our regular dinner rotation now. The dumplings… wow!”
Key Ingredients
Let’s be honest, keto chicken and dumplings are mostly about the cozy flavors. But ingredients totally make the dish. You want boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (whatever’s in the freezer, really). Chicken broth — homemade or store-bought, but always check the label for hidden carbs if you’re strict.
Almond flour is the star here, because it replaces regular flour in the dumplings. A little baking powder helps the dumplings “rise,” and I’m not shy with garlic and onion (flavor bombs). Add in heavy cream or coconut cream to make the broth rich, plus celery and maybe carrots if you’re not crazy about every last carb.
Don’t skimp on the salt and black pepper — seasoning is what keeps it from tasting like bland diet food. And fresh parsley? Instantly looks like five-star restaurant food. Not that my kitchen’s fancy, but I can dream. 
Serving, Storing, and Re-heating
Worried about leftovers with keto chicken and dumplings? Don’t be, this dish holds up shockingly well.
After dinner, just pop the leftovers in an airtight container. Fridge will keep them happy for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat again, reheat slowly on the stove or zap it in the microwave — add a splash of broth if it looks too thick. Dumplings might soften a bit the next day, but the flavor somehow gets even better.
If you’re serving for a party, grab a big rustic bowl. Top with more parsley or, heck, a dollop of sour cream (don’t judge). Pair with a bright salad, maybe something like roasted broccoli. Want more dinner inspiration? Check out this keto chicken broccoli casserole for a change-up midweek.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top hot bowls with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
- Pair with a quick green salad or sautéed greens if you’re missing veggies.
- For extra wow, offer a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a squeeze of lemon.
Dairy-Free Adaptation for Paleo or Whole30
Got someone dairy-free or following Whole30? No sweat, keto chicken and dumplings is tricky but totally do-able. Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk (trust me, it’s not weird, just rich and subtle).
Skip the cheese if you usually add it in, and check that your baking powder is corn- and aluminum-free (if you care, some people do).
Almond flour works for most paleo eaters, but if you need nut-free, coconut flour in smaller amounts works… although honestly, texture is a lot denser. Pick your battles, I always say!
Paleo, keto chicken and dumplings can bring everyone to the table — even my dairy-avoiding sister-in-law went back for seconds last Sunday.
Chefs Tips
Here’s my not-so-secret scoop for nailing keto chicken and dumplings every time. Use chicken thighs for juicier results (I know the health nuts all swear by breasts, but thighs rule in stews). Don’t cook the dumplings too long or they’ll dry out and get crumbly.
If you need the stew a bit thicker, sprinkle in just a touch of xanthan gum, and stir like there’s no tomorrow. Don’t rush the simmer — let those flavors blend together till it smells like a hug in your kitchen.
Also, seriously, taste as you go. Keto chicken and dumplings changes as it simmers, so that little pinch of salt or fresh thyme might make all the difference.
Common Questions
Q: Can I freeze keto chicken and dumplings?
A: Oh for sure! Let it cool, then freeze in single portions. The dumplings hold up, just reheat gently.
Q: Is almond flour the only option for dumplings?
A: It works best, but if you can’t use nuts, try coconut flour with extra eggs. A bit trickier but doable.
Q: Can I make this in the slow cooker?
A: Absolutely. Cook the stew low and slow, just drop the dumpling dough in for the last hour.
Q: Are carrots okay in keto chicken and dumplings?
A: In moderation, yes, but keep it minimal if you’re strict keto. Sub with extra celery if you’re worried.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: Dried herbs are fine (just use less). Still gets that cozy kick.
Try It, You’ll Love It
Comfort food is not just for “cheat days.” With keto chicken and dumplings, you get a chunky, soul-soothing dinner that actually leaves you feeling good. Remember, swap ingredients to fit your eating plan — or, heck, your pantry supply. And if you want to geek out on other people’s tricks, these blogs go deep: check out the Keto Chicken and Dumplings – easy(!) comfort food – Little Pine …, Low-Carb Chicken and Dumplings – Wholesomelicious, and Keto Chicken and Dumplings – Easy Healthy Recipes.
Trust me, once you taste homemade low-carb dumplings, you might never go back. Grab a bowl (and maybe knit socks), and spoon into pure coziness tonight.
Keto Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Use whatever is available in the freezer.
- 4 cups chicken broth Check label for hidden carbs if strict keto.
- 1 cup almond flour Star ingredient for dumplings.
- 1 tbsp baking powder Helps dumplings rise.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped Enhances flavor.
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream For rich broth.
- 1 stalk celery, diced Add more for flavor.
- 1 medium carrot, diced Add in moderation for keto.
- to taste tsp salt Key for flavor.
- to taste tsp black pepper Key for flavor.
- to taste fresh parsley For garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Sauté chicken and vegetables in a large pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer.
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, baking powder, garlic, and onion.
- Add heavy cream or coconut cream into the mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the bubbling soup.
- Cover the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes to steam the dumplings.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and herbs as desired.
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley.