Lunch & Dinner

Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Name: Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 8 cups rich chicken broth; 2 pounds cooked, shredded chicken; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 dried bay leaves; 1/2 cup diced yellow onion; 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced; 2-3 carrots, chopped; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons cold water; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed; 3/4 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest

Lauren Miller March 19, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Finding the perfect accompaniment for chicken and dumpling soup can elevate your meal. Bread is a classic pairing. A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of homemade sourdough adds delightful texture and flavor.

Salads also make an excellent side. Consider a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. The refreshing crunch balances the rich, creamy soup beautifully.

You might enjoy pickles or pickled vegetables on the side, too. Their tartness contrasts nicely with the soup’s warmth. Serve iced tea or sparkling water to cleanse your palate. And don’t underestimate dessert. A light lemon sorbet would finish your meal with a refreshing zing.

What is Chicken and Dumpling Soup?

At its core, chicken and dumpling soup is a comforting dish made from a savory chicken broth filled with tender pieces of chicken and pillow-like dumplings. Traditionally, this dish comes from Southern American cooking and has evolved into many variations.

The beauty of chicken and dumplings lies in its simplicity. Few ingredients transform into something that soothes and delights.

It’s versatile too! You can adjust ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you prefer it creamy or broth-based, the process remains fundamentally the same.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumpling Soup

You’ll fall in love with this dish for several reasons. First, the heartiness is unmatched. Just imagine pulling the ladle through the soup, revealing chunks of chicken and dumplings swimming in a golden broth.

The flavors meld together perfectly. The broth embraces the chicken, and every bite of dumpling feels like a warm hug.

Second, it’s incredibly family-friendly. Even picky eaters find something to love in this comforting classic. The fluffy dumplings are like little clouds, soaking up all the flavors around them.

It’s a dish that encourages the entire family to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of warm goodness.

Lastly, it’s quite simple to make. Many recipes out there seem intimidating, but I assure you, once you understand the basic steps, you can whip it up any day of the week.

Plus, the leftovers taste even better. The broth gets richer, and the dumplings soften, creating a delightful meal for days to come.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Chicken and Dumpling Soup

To make the magic happen, you’ll need these key ingredients:

Soup:

8 cups rich chicken broth
2 pounds cooked, shredded chicken
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 dried bay leaves
½ cup diced yellow onion
3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
2-3 carrots, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried thyme
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Thickening:

3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons cold water

Dumplings:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
¾ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by pouring the chicken broth into a large pot and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. The aroma will already start to fill your kitchen.

Add the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, bay leaves, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, parsley, and thyme. Let everything combine and simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This step allows all flavors to mesh beautifully.

Step 2: Thicken the Broth

After 20 minutes, it’s time to thicken! In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the broth. You’ll notice the soup start to thicken slightly. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gently stir in the milk and lemon zest. The mixture should be fairly thick.

Step 4: Add Dumplings to the Soup

With a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering soup. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they will spread as they cook.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid! This step is crucial as it helps the dumplings steam perfectly. They will expand and become fluffy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the bay leaves. Serve the soup hot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

Here are some tips for making the most out of your chicken and dumpling soup:

Use Homemade Chicken Broth: If possible, homemade broth adds a depth of flavor that store-bought simply can’t match.
Customize Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add in other vegetables like peas or corn based on your preferences.
Check Dumpling Consistency: The dumplings should be thick enough to hold their shape while cooking but not too dry. Adjust with a little more milk if necessary.
Season to Taste: Always taste the broth and adjust seasonings before serving. A touch more salt or pepper can elevate the entire dish.
Make Ahead: The soup can be made in advance. Just add the dumplings fresh before serving for the best texture.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days. Want to keep it longer?

Consider freezing it! However, I recommend freezing the soup without the dumplings, as they can become mushy once thawed. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the soup and add fresh dumplings right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas on how to serve chicken and dumpling soup:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish your soup with chopped fresh parsley or chives. This adds color and freshness.
Pair with Bread: Serve your soup with a side of crusty bread or rolls for dipping. Perfect for sopping up every last drop!
Add a Squeeze of Lemon: Just before serving, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the richness of the soup.
Accompany with a Salad: Serve a side salad for a complete meal. A light garden salad adds a crisp texture.
Top with Parmesan Cheese: For cheese lovers, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the soup for an added layer of flavor.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chicken and Dumpling Soup?

Sometimes, you may find yourself short on ingredients or want to experiment. Here are some substitutes to consider:

Bone-in Chicken Thighs: If you don’t have shredded chicken, bone-in thighs will add more flavor. Just cook them then shred.
Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian version, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. Use hearty vegetables for flavor.
Gluten-Free Flour: If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend for the dumplings.
Greek Yogurt: Instead of milk in the dumplings, Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a little tang.
Frozen Vegetables: No fresh veggies? Frozen ones will work just as well. They can save time during prep.

Conclusion

Chicken and dumpling soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace during the colder months, a nostalgic memory, and a cherished recipe you can gather around with loved ones.

Following this recipe, you get to create something that adds comfort and joy to your dining table.

From mixing the ingredients to enjoying that first spoonful, each step is an opportunity to engage with cooking in a meaningful way.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and let the aromas fill your kitchen. Trust me, you won’t just be making soup. You’ll be crafting a memorable meal that brings everyone together.

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Print Recipe

Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe – Comfort Food Meals

Author: Lauren Miller Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 40 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 357 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ah, chicken and dumpling soup. It’s the kind of dish that wraps itself around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. There’s something about a bowl of chicken and fluffy dumplings that brings comfort unlike anything else.

I remember the first time I had this soup. My grandmother had a magic touch when it came to the kitchen. This soup was her crown jewel. I’ve tried to recreate it, and through trial and error, what I’ve found is that this soup is not just food; it’s an experience.

This recipe is special not only because it warms your soul but also because it reminds me of home. In this article, let’s dive into what makes chicken and dumpling soup so irresistible and how you can create it in your own kitchen.