Chicken and Biscuits Recipe: Chicken and biscuits is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, creamy chicken filling topped with buttery, flaky biscuits. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or cozy nights. Whether you use homemade biscuits or a quick store-bought version, this recipe will leave you craving more.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this classic dish from scratch!
Ingredients Required
For the Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie, baked, or boiled)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
For the Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
How to Make Chicken and Biscuits – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Filling
- Cook the Chicken – If using raw chicken, boil or bake it until fully cooked, then shred it with forks. For convenience, use rotisserie chicken.
- Sauté Vegetables – In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Sauce – Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for a minute to remove the raw taste. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Add cream, salt, pepper, and thyme. Let it simmer until thickened.
- Combine Everything – Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas. Let it cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Biscuits
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in Butter – Use a pastry cutter or fingers to mix in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Milk – Pour in milk or buttermilk and stir until dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Shape and Cut Biscuits – Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut out biscuits using a round cutter or a glass.
Step 3: Assembling the Dish
- Preheat Oven – Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pour Chicken Filling – Transfer the creamy chicken mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with Biscuits – Arrange biscuits evenly on top of the filling. Brush the tops with melted butter for extra flavor.
Step 4: Baking the Chicken and Biscuits
- Bake – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Check Doneness – The biscuits should be firm and lightly browned. If needed, cover with foil and bake for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve with a side salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Biscuits
- Use buttermilk for extra fluffy biscuits.
- Add cheese to the biscuit dough for a cheesy twist.
- Swap chicken for turkey for a post-holiday meal.
- Don’t overwork the biscuit dough to keep them tender.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep biscuits crispy.
- Freeze the filling separately and add fresh biscuits when ready to bake.
Variations of Chicken and Biscuits
- Southern-Style – Use a cast-iron skillet for extra crispiness.
- Casserole Version – Bake the filling separately, then add biscuits halfway through.
- Slow Cooker – Cook the filling in a slow cooker, then add biscuits on top in the last hour.
FAQs about Chicken and Biscuits Recipe
What type of chicken is best for chicken and biscuits?
For the best flavor and texture, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They remain juicy during cooking and add depth to the dish. However, if you prefer a leaner option, skinless, boneless chicken breasts are a suitable alternative.
Can I use store-bought biscuits instead of homemade?
Absolutely! While homemade biscuits add a special touch, store-bought biscuits can be a great time-saver and still deliver delicious results. Simply follow the baking instructions on the package.
What vegetables can I add to the recipe?
Carrots, peas, and celery are classic additions that not only provide a burst of color but also enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms or green beans for added variety.
How can I thicken the sauce for the chicken and biscuits?
A roux made from butter and flour is traditionally used to thicken the sauce. Alternatively, a slurry of cornstarch and water can be used for a gluten-free option. Add the thickener gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
Is it possible to make chicken and biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken, prepare the biscuits, and assemble while everything is hot. This is ideal for managing meal prep during a busy week.
Can I freeze chicken and biscuits?
It is best to freeze the chicken filling separately from the biscuits. The filling can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving with freshly baked biscuits for the best texture and taste.
Conclusion
Chicken and biscuits is the ultimate homemade comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this step-by-step guide ensures success. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal!