Tortilla Dumplings are a comforting, homestyle twist on classic chicken and dumplings, replacing traditional dough with tortillas cut into strips. This clever shortcut delivers tender dumpling-like bites that soak up the rich flavors of chicken broth. The dish is hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a family with minimal effort. Popular in the Southern and Tex-Mex regions of the U.S., this recipe highlights how everyday ingredients like tortillas can be repurposed into a warm, filling meal. It’s a nostalgic dish that blends the simplicity of farmhouse cooking with the practicality of modern kitchens.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ quarts chicken broth
- 3-4` tortillas (Rodriguez or Paco brand recommended, cut into strips)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- ½ cup milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Broth
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
Step 2: Add Tortillas
- Cut tortillas into strips like dumplings.
- Add them to the boiling broth and cook uncovered for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Chicken
- Stir in shredded chicken.
- Cover pot and cook for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish with Milk
- Add a little milk to the broth for creaminess.
- Simmer gently for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Tips
- Use Rodriguez tortillas as noted (or similar pliable flour tortillas) for the most authentic texture.
- Cut tortillas into wide strips or short rectangles to mimic classic dumplings.
- Add a small splash of milk at the end, as written, for a creamy broth without making it heavy.
- For richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or broth from poached chicken.
- Stir gently after adding tortillas to avoid breaking them.
- Add carrots, celery, or onions if you want a heartier stew-like version.
- To reduce sodium, choose low-sodium broth and season at the end.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to make this an easy weeknight meal.
- Letting the dish rest 30 minutes as written helps the tortillas soften like dumplings.
- Add black pepper or a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Nutrition
Calories: 255kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 22gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1150mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 2.2mg
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