There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Chicken Dumpling Soup to warm the soul. This homemade recipe features tender, seasoned chicken in a flavorful broth, paired with fluffy, from-scratch dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s a dish that brings back nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones around the dinner table. Perfect for cold winter nights, rainy afternoons, or any day when you need a little extra comfort, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or cooking from scratch, it’s an easy and wholesome dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 large carrots, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup unbleached all-purpose flour
- 8 cups chicken stock
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 4 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dumplings:
- 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ tsp thyme
- ½ tsp parsley
Directions:
- Heat olive oil and butter over medium heat in a large Dutch oven or soup pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté until onions are soft and translucent.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Add flour, thyme, and parsley, stir well, and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in chicken stock while stirring constantly.
- Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer while preparing the dumplings.
- For the dumplings, whisk flour, salt, baking powder, parsley, and thyme in a large bowl.
- Stir in melted butter and milk until combined.
- Scoop dumpling batter and drop spoonfuls onto the soup’s surface.
- Cover the pot tightly and cook for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid!
- Once done, insert a toothpick into a dumpling. If it comes out clean, they’re ready to serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 295 kcal | Servings: 12
A Brief History of Chicken Dumpling Soup
The origins of Chicken Dumpling Soup can be traced back to traditional European and American cuisines. While variations exist worldwide, the combination of dumplings and broth-based soups dates back centuries. In German cuisine, for example, dumplings (known as “Knödel”) are often added to broths for a hearty meal. Similarly, in Southern American cooking, chicken and dumplings is a widely cherished dish, often served with thick, rolled dumplings instead of the fluffy, drop-style dumplings commonly found in this soup.
Over time, Chicken Dumpling Soup became a household favorite in many regions, especially in North America, where home cooks adapted the recipe to include accessible ingredients and simplified cooking methods. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food, celebrated for its ability to soothe both the body and soul.
Why Chicken Dumpling Soup is the Perfect Comfort Food
Few dishes can match the soul-warming qualities of Chicken Dumpling Soup. There are several reasons why this meal continues to be a favorite among families:
1. Warm and Nourishing
The rich, flavorful broth provides hydration and warmth, making it ideal for cold weather or when you need a pick-me-up. The addition of carrots, celery, and herbs enhances both the taste and the nutritional profile of the dish.
2. Satisfying and Hearty
Unlike a simple broth-based soup, Chicken Dumpling Soup features filling and fluffy dumplings that absorb the flavors of the broth. The dumplings add a comforting texture that makes the dish feel like a complete meal rather than just a starter.
3. Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This soup is an excellent choice for meal prepping. It can be made in a large batch and stored in the refrigerator for several days, with the flavors deepening over time. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
4. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of Chicken Dumpling Soup is its versatility. It can be easily adjusted to suit different dietary preferences and taste preferences. Whether you prefer a thicker, stew-like consistency or a lighter broth, this dish can be tailored to your liking.
Variations and Customization
Chicken Dumpling Soup is incredibly adaptable, allowing for creative twists while still maintaining its comforting essence. Here are some variations to consider:
1. Different Types of Dumplings
- Drop Dumplings: The classic, fluffy dumplings made by spooning the batter directly into the soup. They puff up beautifully and absorb the broth’s flavors.
- Rolled Dumplings: These are more like thick noodles, rolled out and cut before being added to the soup. They have a slightly chewy texture.
- Cheater’s Dumplings: If you’re in a hurry, store-bought biscuit dough can be cut into small pieces and used as a quick dumpling alternative.
2. Protein Variations
- Turkey Dumpling Soup: A great way to use leftover turkey from holiday meals.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
- Seafood Twist: Some people enjoy adding shrimp or fish to their dumpling soup for a unique take on the dish.
3. Different Broth Styles
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to create a rich, creamy broth.
- Spicy Variation: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning to bring out different flavor profiles.
Tips for the Best Chicken Dumpling Soup
To make sure your Chicken Dumpling Soup turns out perfect every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Don’t Overwork the Dumpling Dough
When making dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough. Overworked dough can result in tough, dense dumplings instead of soft and fluffy ones. - Keep the Lid Closed While Cooking Dumplings
Resist the temptation to peek! Keeping the lid on the pot while the dumplings cook ensures they steam properly and become light and airy. - Use Homemade or Quality Broth
A good broth is the backbone of this dish. If possible, use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality, low-sodium version. - Adjust the Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the broth before adding the dumplings. - Let the Flavors Develop
Like many soups, Chicken Dumpling Soup tastes even better the next day. If time allows, make it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to deepen.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Dumpling Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate the meal. Here are a few ideas:
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or homemade dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the broth.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want an extra serving of veggies, roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus make a great side.
- Classic Southern Pairing: In some regions, Chicken Dumpling Soup is served with cornbread for a delicious Southern-style meal.
Conclusion:
Chicken Dumpling Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a timeless classic that brings warmth to the table. With its rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings, this dish has remained a family favorite for generations. Whether you’re making it from scratch or putting your own spin on it with creative variations, it’s a meal that always delivers satisfaction.
Whether you’re battling cold weather, looking for a nostalgic dish, or simply craving something hearty and homemade, this soup is a perfect choice. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bring this comforting bowl of goodness to your kitchen and enjoy it any time of the year.