Chicken and dumplings made in the Instant Pot is a simple and comforting meal that works well for busy days. This recipe brings together tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a creamy broth all in one pot. Using chicken in instant pot helps save time while still delivering classic comfort food flavors.

Cooking chicken and dumplings this way makes the process easier and more reliable. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, keeps the chicken tender, and cooks the dumplings evenly. Everything comes together quickly without needing multiple pots or long cooking times.
This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anytime a warm and filling meal is needed. Chicken and dumplings instant pot recipes are popular because they are easy to follow, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients that are easy to find.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the dumplings:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step 1: Prep the chicken and veggies

Put chicken, chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth into the Instant Pot. I usually throw everything in and then realize I did not chop the carrots small enough, but that is fine.
Step 2: Cook the chicken

Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 12 minutes. When the timer goes off, let it naturally release for 10 minutes. Take out the chicken and shred it with two forks. This is the part where your kitchen smells like heaven.
Step 3: Make the dumplings

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and melted butter. The dough will be soft. It is okay if it is a little sticky. I usually get my hands messy here because it is just easier to drop spoonfuls that way.
Step 4: Add milk and chicken back
Pour the cup of milk into the Instant Pot. Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. It already looks creamy and dreamy.
Step 5: Cook the dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the soup. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to Steam for 5 minutes. Quick release when done. The dumplings will be soft, pillowy, and perfect.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Spoon the creamy chicken and dumplings into bowls. If you feel fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. I never do it because my kids eat too fast, but it looks nice for photos.
Meal Prep Tips

Preparing meals ahead of time can make busy weekdays so much easier. With this Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe, you can save time without losing any of that cozy, homemade flavor.
- Cook the chicken and dumplings fully and let them cool slightly before portioning into meal prep containers.
- Use individual containers for each serving so everyone can grab their own without reheating the whole batch.
- Label containers with the date so you always know how fresh it is.
- Keep some frozen vegetables ready to toss in when reheating to make the meal feel fresh.
- Double the recipe if you want a few days worth of lunches or dinners ready to go.
Storage Tips
Storing your chicken and dumplings properly keeps them tasting fresh and safe to eat. These tips help you enjoy leftovers without wasting food.
- Store cooked chicken and dumplings in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally so the dumplings do not dry out.
- Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating if the soup seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Can I freeze leftovers?
How can I make the soup thicker?
Chicken and Dumplings Instant Pot Recipe Card

Chicken and Dumplings Instant Pot
Ingredients
Method
- Place chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth into the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow natural release for 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and shred with two forks.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and melted butter to form soft dough. It is okay if it is a little sticky.
- Pour milk into the Instant Pot, stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the soup. Close lid and set Instant Pot to Steam for 5 minutes. Quick release when done.
- Spoon soup into bowls. Optional: sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Notes
Tips
- If soup seems too thick when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Frozen vegetables can be added without thawing.
- Double the recipe for meal prep or leftovers.
- For thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir in before adding dumplings.
Variations
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for extra tender meat.
- Add other vegetables like green beans, corn, or zucchini.
- Make dairy-free by substituting milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or paprika in the broth.
Chicken and dumplings made in the Instant Pot is a reliable and comforting meal that fits into many schedules. The combination of tender chicken, soft dumplings, and creamy broth creates a dish that feels filling without being heavy. Using chicken in instant pot makes cooking faster while keeping the texture just right.
This recipe works well for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family meals that need to come together without extra effort. Chicken and dumplings instant pot recipes are popular because they are simple, consistent, and easy to repeat. With minimal prep and one pot, cleanup stays easy and stress stays low.
This dish is a practical option for anyone looking for a warm and satisfying meal. Chicken and dumplings cooked this way delivers comfort, ease, and dependable results every time.