Easy Chicken And Dumplings Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for something warm, comforting, and hearty, chicken and dumplings soup is the perfect dish to satisfy those cravings. It’s one of those classic comfort foods that brings together tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings-ideal for cozy nights, cold weather, or when you just need a bit of home-cooked goodness in a bowl. The best part? It’s easier to make than you might think!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a simple yet delicious chicken and dumplings soup recipe that’s full of flavor, textures, and love. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a soul-satisfying dish that’ll leave you (and everyone around you) asking for seconds.

Easy Chicken And Dumplings Soup Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and homemade goodness. It’s rich and creamy, with chunks of tender chicken, vegetables, and hearty dumplings that melt in your mouth. Best of all, you don’t need a lot of special equipment or obscure ingredients to make it happen-just basic pantry items and a bit of patience.

Here’s what you need:

Ingredients Needed

For the soup base:

• 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (fresh thyme works great, too)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 6 cups chicken broth (or stock, if you prefer)
• 1 ½ cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
• 1 cup frozen peas (or any other vegetables you prefer)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup heavy cream (for that creamy, luxurious finish)

For the dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but adds a nice touch)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for that extra flavor boost)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Soup Base

   • Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
   • Toss in the minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
   • Sprinkle in your dried thyme and rosemary, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

2. Shred The Chicken

   • While your soup is simmering, take the shredded chicken and stir it into the pot. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just pull off the meat and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make The Dumplings

   • In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, garlic powder, and dried parsley. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
   • Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry, stirring until a thick dough forms. You don’t want it too runny; it should be thick enough to scoop out with a spoon.

4. Cook The Dumplings

   • Once the soup has simmered and the chicken is heated through, carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the surface of the soup. They should float on top of the broth.
   • Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the dumplings cook for 12-15 minutes. Don’t lift the lid during this time, or they might not cook properly. The dumplings should puff up and become soft and fluffy.

5. Final Touches

   • After the dumplings have cooked, stir in the frozen peas, followed by the heavy cream for a rich, creamy finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets plenty of soup, chicken, and fluffy dumplings. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top makes for a nice garnish, and you’re ready to dive into this comforting dish!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down a few ingredients that really elevate this dish:

• Chicken Broth: This is the backbone of your soup base. Opting for homemade broth will give you a richer, more complex flavor, but store-bought works fine too. Chicken broth adds savory depth, making your soup feel full-bodied and satisfying.
• Heavy Cream: Adding a splash of cream at the end creates a luxurious, velvety texture. It balances out the saltiness from the chicken broth and gives the soup a rich, comforting flavor. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version if needed.
• Frozen Peas: While peas aren’t an absolute must, they add a beautiful burst of color and a slight sweetness to balance the savory elements in the dish. You could use green beans or corn for variety, depending on your preference.
• Dumplings: The dumplings themselves are what make this soup special. The mix of flour, butter, and milk creates a soft, pillowy texture that soaks up the broth perfectly. Plus, they puff up when cooked, making them a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Overmix the Dumplings: When combining the dry and wet ingredients for the dumplings, stir just until the flour is moistened. Overmixing will lead to dense, heavy dumplings instead of the light, fluffy ones we all love.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver. It saves you the effort of cooking and shredding your own chicken, while still adding great flavor.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: When making the soup, keep the heat at a simmer, not a boil. Boiling the soup too rapidly can cause the dumplings to fall apart. A gentle simmer lets the dumplings cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the broth.
• Make it Your Own: Add your favorite herbs to give it a unique spin. Fresh parsley, dill, or basil can make a big difference in flavor, while also adding fresh color to the soup.

Recipe Variations

This classic chicken and dumplings soup recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Herb-Infused Dumplings: Swap out the parsley for other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra aromatic touch.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a couple of dashes of hot sauce to the soup to give it a little heat. If you love spice, this can be a fun twist!
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken entirely and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or squash to bulk up the soup.
• Cheesy Dumplings: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) into your dumpling dough for a cheesy twist that adds even more richness.

Final Words

Chicken and dumplings soup is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort to both your body and soul. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a lazy Sunday, or a busy weeknight, it’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can craft a hearty, flavorful meal that will feed your family and leave you with a satisfied smile.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or ingredients that suit your tastes. Make it your own and add your personal touch-it’s all about what makes you feel good when you sit down to eat.