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–+ servings
Tortilla Dumplings
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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine southerm
Servings 4
Calories 255 kcal

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
Keyword chicken and dumplings, easy soup, one pot meal, Tex-Mex comfort food, tortilla dumplings, weeknight dinner
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