This Chicken and Dumpling Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy dumplings that float like little clouds.
On a chilly day, this soup is my go-to. The smell cooking makes the whole house feel cozy. Plus, who can resist those soft dumplings? They’re the best part! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but if you’re out, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil instead. They both work well without changing the flavor too much.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth adds the best flavor, but store-bought is perfectly fine. For a lighter option, try low-sodium broth. You could even use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version!
Cooked Chicken: I often use rotisserie chicken because it’s quick and so tasty. However, leftover chicken or turkey works wonderfully too. Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces.
Dumpling Ingredients: All-purpose flour is standard for dumplings. If you need a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend will do the trick. Just check that your baking powder is gluten-free too!
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Fluffy Dumplings?
The secret to fluffy dumplings is not overmixing the batter. You want everything combined but a few lumps are okay. Here’s how to make them perfect:
- Mix your dry ingredients before adding wet ones. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly.
- Once you add the milk and melted butter, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings.
- When dropping the batter into the simmering soup, don’t flatten them. They need room to puff up!
- Cover the pot tightly while the dumplings cook. This traps steam and makes them rise beautifully.
Following these tips will lead to delicious, fluffy dumplings every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or cooked chicken breast)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting chicken and dumpling soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. Total time is around 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a great flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Once your veggies are nice and tender, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Make the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors can blend together beautifully.
4. Prepare the Dumpling Batter:
While the soup is simmering, let’s make the dumplings! In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and half a teaspoon of salt. Then stir in the milk and melted butter until everything is just combined. Remember not to overmix—it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy!
5. Cook the Dumplings:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter right into the simmering soup. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid; this is where the magic happens, and the dumplings will puff up perfectly!
6. Season and Serve:
After the dumpling cooking time is up, taste your soup and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. Then, it’s time to serve! Spoon lots of delicious soup and fluffy dumplings into bowls, and enjoy this comforting dish!
Enjoy your cozy, comforting chicken and dumpling soup!
FAQ: Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. The best ways to thaw are overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. If using raw chicken, you can cook and shred it directly in the broth for added flavor!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based shredded chicken or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dumplings may become softer as they sit, but they will still be delicious! To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! However, it’s best to freeze it without dumplings, as they can become mushy when thawed. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding fresh dumpling batter as you warm it.