Chicken Dumpling Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Dumpling Soup is everything you want in a hearty soup: flavorful, comforting, and packed with tender ingredients. The chicken provides a rich, savory base, while the vegetables add freshness and crunch. The dumplings are the star, soft and pillowy, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the broth. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold night or a nourishing option when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s easy to make, and the whole family will love the combination of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

For the soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups water

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1/2 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add the chicken broth and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

3. Stir in the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. While the soup is simmering, prepare the dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder (if using).

5. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, egg, and fresh parsley (if using). Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.

6. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and fully cooked through. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook properly.

7. Once the dumplings are done, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the soup hot, making sure each bowl gets a generous portion of both soup and dumplings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Dumplings: For a twist, you can add finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or other vegetables to the dumpling batter for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Herb Dumplings: Try adding fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil to the dumplings for a burst of flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this soup gluten-free. Be sure to use a gluten-free baking powder as well.

• Spicy Chicken Dumpling Soup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the broth for a little heat.

• Lemon Chicken Dumpling Soup: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the broth just before serving for a refreshing, zesty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dumplings separate if you plan to store leftovers, as they can become soggy when reheated in the soup.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much. Dumplings can be reheated gently in the soup or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

It’s best to make the dumplings just before adding them to the soup, as they are freshest when cooked right in the broth. However, you can prepare the dumpling dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the soup. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the broth.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are done when they are puffed up, firm to the touch, and have fully cooked through. You can test one by cutting it open to check for any raw dough inside.

Can I freeze Chicken Dumpling Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to freeze the soup and dumplings separately. The dumplings may become soggy when frozen and reheated. To freeze, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the soup in a slow cooker. Add the vegetables, chicken, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add the dumpling dough during the last 30 minutes of cooking, covering the slow cooker until the dumplings are cooked.

How can I make the broth richer?

For a richer broth, use chicken thighs instead of breast meat, or add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup before serving.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used if you prefer a quicker option. Just add them to the soup at the same time as the chicken and broth.

Conclusion

Chicken Dumpling Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings all in one bowl. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or looking for something cozy on a cold day. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort with this delicious homemade Chicken Dumpling Soup!

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