10 Ways to Thicken up Chicken and Dumplings Without Cornstarch

Looking to thicken up your chicken and dumplings without cornstarch?

You’re not alone!

In fact, did you know that cornstarch is a common thickening agent used in many recipes?

But fear not, because we’ve got you covered with 10 alternative ways to achieve that desired thickness.

From using flour as a thickening agent to trying arrowroot powder or even experimenting with pureed vegetables, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Let’s dive in and discover these creative ways to enhance your chicken and dumplings!

Use Flour as a Thickening Agent

You can use flour as a thickening agent for your chicken and dumplings by creating a roux with butter and flour.

To do this, melt some butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add an equal amount of flour and whisk it together until it forms a smooth paste. Let the roux cook for a minute or two, stirring constantly, to remove any raw flour taste.

Then, gradually pour in some chicken broth while continuing to whisk. The flour in the roux will thicken the broth, giving your chicken and dumplings a rich and creamy texture.

Keep in mind that the longer you cook the roux, the thicker the sauce will become. So adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.

Incorporate Mashed Potatoes Into the Broth

To incorporate mashed potatoes into the broth, simply stir them in until they are well blended. This is a great way to thicken up your chicken and dumplings without using cornstarch.

Start by making a batch of creamy mashed potatoes. Once they are smooth and free of lumps, add them to your simmering broth. The starch from the potatoes will help thicken the broth and give it a rich and velvety texture.

As you stir, you will notice the broth becoming thicker and more substantial. The mashed potatoes will also add a delicious flavor to your dish, making it even more satisfying.

Add a Roux to the Chicken and Dumplings

Adding a roux to the chicken and dumplings will create a thick and flavorful sauce for the dish.

To make the roux, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add an equal amount of all-purpose flour to the pan. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. This is the base of your roux.

Next, slowly pour in some chicken broth while stirring constantly. The roux will thicken the broth, giving it a rich and creamy consistency. Once the desired thickness is achieved, you can add the roux to your chicken and dumplings mixture.

The roux will not only add thickness, but it will also enhance the flavors of the dish, making it even more delicious.

Try Using Arrowroot Powder Instead of Cornstarch

If you’re looking for an alternative to cornstarch, arrowroot powder can be used to thicken the sauce in your chicken and dumplings dish. Arrowroot powder is a natural starch that is derived from the roots of the arrowroot plant. It has a neutral taste and is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

To use arrowroot powder as a thickening agent, simply mix it with a small amount of cold water to form a slurry, then add it to your simmering sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Keep in mind that arrowroot powder thickens quickly, so be cautious not to add too much.

Enjoy your thick and delicious chicken and dumplings without the use of cornstarch!

Use Tapioca Pearls to Thicken the Dish

You can achieve a thick and hearty texture in your dish by using tapioca pearls instead of cornstarch.

Tapioca pearls, also known as tapioca starch or tapioca flour, are a gluten-free alternative that works wonders as a thickening agent.

When cooked, these small, translucent pearls release their starch and transform your dish into a luscious masterpiece.

Simply add the tapioca pearls to your simmering liquid and let them work their magic. As they absorb the liquid, they swell up and thicken the sauce or broth.

The result is a rich and velvety texture that coats your ingredients perfectly.

Tapioca pearls are a versatile option that adds a unique twist to your favorite recipes, so give them a try for a deliciously thickened dish.

Opt for a Creamy Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Opt for a creamy chicken and dumplings recipe that utilizes tapioca pearls as a thickening agent for a velvety texture. When you’re in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal, this recipe is perfect.

Start by cooking tender chicken in a flavorful broth with onions, carrots, and celery. As the chicken simmers, add in the tapioca pearls, allowing them to absorb the liquid and thicken the sauce.

The tapioca pearls create a luscious and creamy texture that coats each dumpling perfectly. The result is a dish that is rich and satisfying, with a silky smooth sauce that will leave you wanting more.

Experiment With Pureed Vegetables to Add Thickness

When making a creamy chicken and dumplings recipe, try experimenting with pureed vegetables to add thickness and enhance the flavor.

Pureed vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or cauliflower, can be a great alternative to traditional thickening agents like cornstarch. Not only do they provide a rich and creamy texture, but they also add extra nutrients to your dish.

To incorporate pureed vegetables, simply cook them until soft, then blend them until smooth. You can either add the puree directly to the broth or mix it with some of the broth in a separate bowl before adding it back to the pot. This method allows you to control the thickness of the dish to your liking.

Use a Slow Cooker to Naturally Thicken the Dish Over Time

To naturally thicken your dish over time, try using a slow cooker.

When you cook your chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker, the flavors have ample time to meld together, creating a rich and thick sauce.

As the dish simmers on low heat, the ingredients release their natural juices, resulting in a thick and luscious consistency.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, while also breaking down the chicken and vegetables, releasing their natural starches.

This starch helps to thicken the sauce without the need for cornstarch or other thickeners.

Simply set your slow cooker to low, add all the ingredients, and let it work its magic.

In a few hours, you’ll have a deliciously thick and hearty chicken and dumplings that will leave you wanting more.

Try Using Xanthan Gum as a Cornstarch Alternative

Using xanthan gum as a cornstarch alternative can help achieve a thick and creamy consistency in your dishes. Xanthan gum is a natural thickening agent that can be used in a variety of recipes, including chicken and dumplings.

To use xanthan gum, simply sprinkle a small amount into your dish and stir well. The gum will quickly dissolve and thicken the sauce or broth, giving it a rich and velvety texture. Unlike cornstarch, xanthan gum doesn’t require heat to activate its thickening properties, making it a convenient option for thickening sauces, soups, and stews.

Additionally, xanthan gum is gluten-free, making it a suitable alternative for those with dietary restrictions. So, next time you’re looking for a cornstarch substitute, give xanthan gum a try for a perfectly thick and creamy dish.

Use a Reduction Technique to Concentrate the Flavors and Thicken the Broth

For a richer and more flavorful broth, try reducing it to concentrate the flavors and achieve a thicker consistency.

Start by simmering your broth on low heat, allowing it to reduce slowly. As the liquid evaporates, the flavors become more concentrated, giving your dish a deeper taste.

Keep an eye on the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent the broth from sticking to the bottom. You’ll notice the broth becoming thicker and more robust as it reduces.

This reduction technique is a simple and effective way to enhance the flavor profile of your dish. Whether you’re making chicken and dumplings or any other soup or stew, reducing the broth will elevate the taste and provide a more satisfying dining experience.