How to Make Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Soup – A Cozy, Creamy Delight

Chicken and dumplings soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This chicken dumpling soup combines tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a creamy broth, making it a cozy, hearty meal. Whether you’re looking for a traditional recipe for chicken dumplings or craving a warm bowl of chicken soup and dumplings, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & easy one-pot meal: This hearty soup comes together in one pot, making it a convenient and simple option with minimal cleanup.
• Made with simple pantry ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients like chicken, dumplings, and broth, you can create a satisfying and delicious meal in no time.
• Perfect for cold weather & family dinners: The rich, creamy nature of this soup makes it ideal for chilly nights and cozy meals shared with loved ones.
• Customizable with veggies and herbs: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

This comforting soup will become a go-to favorite, providing warmth and comfort with every bowl!

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk
• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Cook the Chicken & Broth
Add the diced chicken breast or thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Make & Add the Dumplings
In a separate bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Add the softened butter and milk, mixing until a dough forms. Carefully spoon the dumpling mixture over the simmering soup. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 10-15 minutes until they are fluffy and cooked through.

Simmer & Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked, stir in 1 cup of whole milk or cream to give the soup a rich, creamy texture. Let it simmer for a few more minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy your delicious, comforting chicken and dumplings soup!

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings Soup:

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut: To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken. It adds great flavor and makes the prep time much quicker.
• Don’t overmix dumpling dough to keep it light & fluffy: When preparing the dumplings, be careful not to overmix the dough. Gently stir the ingredients until combined to ensure the dumplings stay soft and airy.
• Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness: For a creamier, richer texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the soup. It enhances the flavor and makes the broth even more indulgent.

These tips will help you elevate your chicken and dumplings soup, making it even more delicious and comforting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overcooking the dumplings: Overcooking the dumplings will make them dense and heavy instead of light and fluffy. Keep an eye on them while simmering to ensure they cook perfectly.
• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to properly season your soup can result in a bland flavor. Be sure to add enough salt, pepper, and herbs to bring out the best taste in the broth.
• Not covering while simmering: If you don’t cover the pot while simmering, the dumplings won’t cook evenly. Always cover the pot to ensure the dumplings cook through and stay soft.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you create a delicious and perfectly cooked chicken and dumplings soup!

Variations & Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s an easy substitution that ensures everyone can enjoy this hearty soup!
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, replace the whole milk or cream with almond milk or any other dairy-free milk of your choice. This keeps the soup creamy without the dairy.
• Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup. This spicy twist will elevate the flavors and give the dish an exciting kick!

These variations allow you to customize the soup to meet dietary preferences or personal tastes. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips:

• Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad: For a complete meal, pair your chicken and dumplings soup with a slice of crusty bread or a light, fresh salad. This adds texture and balance to the comforting soup.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup will keep its flavor and texture, making it perfect for quick meals later.
• Reheat gently to maintain dumpling texture: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to preserve the soft, fluffy texture of the dumplings. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

These tips will help you enjoy your soup fresh, store it properly, and preserve its delicious texture!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 10g

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This soup is a balanced and hearty meal, providing a good source of protein and comforting nutrients!

Conclusion

This Chicken and Dumplings Soup is truly a perfect dish for any day, ideal for sharing with family. Its creamy, flavorful broth and soft dumplings make it a satisfying meal that fills both the stomach and the heart. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table. Happy cooking!

FAQs:

Can I use biscuit dough instead of homemade dumplings?
Yes, you can use biscuit dough as a substitute for homemade dumplings. However, homemade dumplings tend to be lighter and fluffier, offering a better texture and flavor in the soup.

How do I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, mix a small amount of cornstarch with some cold broth or water, then stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for a few minutes, and the soup will naturally thicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this Chicken and Dumplings Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to freeze the soup and dumplings separately, as the dumplings may become soggy when reheated. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to the soup. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the veggies are tender.