Introduction
Chicken and dumpling soup is the kind of cozy classic that warms you from the inside out. A bowl of tender shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich, savory broth is like a hug in soup form. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, feeding a crowd, or just craving something soul-satisfying, this recipe delivers old-fashioned comfort with modern ease.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Classic comfort food: Tastes like grandma made it.
- One-pot meal: Easy cleanup and perfect for batch cooking.
- Fluffy dumplings: Soft, pillowy, and soak up all the flavor.
- Versatile: Make it with rotisserie chicken or leftover roast.
Ingredients Overview
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for richness)
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk (plus a splash more if needed)
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Soup Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook another minute.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add shredded chicken, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir in cream or milk if using.
Step 2: Make the Dumplings
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and herbs if using. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined—do not overmix. Dough should be thick and sticky.
Step 3: Add Dumplings to the Soup
Bring soup to a gentle simmer. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) onto the surface of the soup. Cover and cook without lifting the lid for 15–18 minutes, or until dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaf. Ladle soup into bowls, making sure each one gets a few dumplings. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
Variations
- Herby boost: Add rosemary, sage, or dill to the broth or dumplings.
- Creamy version: Stir in extra cream or a splash of sour cream.
- Veggie-loaded: Add peas, green beans, or corn for extra heartiness.
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free flour blend for dumplings.
What to Serve With It
- Crusty bread or biscuits
- Side salad with vinaigrette
- Apple cider or light white wine like Pinot Grigio
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add broth if needed to loosen.
- Freeze: Freeze soup without dumplings; make fresh dumplings when reheating.
SEO Optimization: Keywords and Meta Description
Primary Keywords: Chicken and dumpling soup, Homemade chicken soup, Chicken dumplings recipe
Secondary Keywords: One-pot chicken soup, Comfort food soup, Classic chicken soup
Meta Description: Cozy up with this hearty chicken and dumpling soup recipe! Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth come together in one comforting bowl.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumpling soup is a timeless favorite for a reason—it’s hearty, wholesome, and completely satisfying. With its rich broth, soft dumplings, and tender chicken, this recipe makes the perfect meal for chilly nights, comforting lunches, or whenever you need a little home-cooked love. Once you try it, you’ll keep this recipe close for life.