How to Make Chicken Dumpling Soup
This recipe is easy to follow, with each step building rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Here’s how to prepare this comforting meal:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the shredded chicken. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and parsley. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a sticky dough forms. Do not overmix, as this can make the dumplings dense.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings to the Soup
Using a spoon, drop small spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering soup. The dumplings will expand as they cook, so leave space between them.
Step 5: Simmer Until Dumplings Are Cooked
Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam in the soup for about 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure they cook properly. Once done, the dumplings should be soft, fluffy, and fully cooked through.
Step 6: Add Peas and Serve
Stir in the frozen peas and let them warm for 2-3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.
How Long to Cook the Dumplings
The key to perfect dumplings is cooking them just long enough to be light and fluffy without becoming dense. Here’s a general guideline for cooking dumplings in Chicken Dumpling Soup:
- Small Dumplings – Cook for 12-14 minutes.
- Medium Dumplings – Cook for 15-17 minutes.
- Large Dumplings – Cook for 18-20 minutes.
For best results, cover the pot while the dumplings cook to allow them to steam properly. Avoid lifting the lid too soon, as this can cause the dumplings to deflate. You’ll know they’re done when they are firm yet tender and no longer doughy in the center.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, Chicken Dumpling Soup can be stored and enjoyed later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator – Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dumplings may absorb some broth, so add a splash of extra broth when reheating.
- Freezer – For longer storage, freeze the soup without the dumplings for up to 3 months. Dumplings don’t freeze well as they can become mushy when thawed. If freezing, make a fresh batch of dumplings when reheating.
To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop until hot. If needed, add extra broth to maintain the right consistency.
Tips for the Best Chicken Dumpling Soup
For the best flavor and texture, keep these tips in mind while making your soup:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken adds deep flavor and saves time.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough – Stir until just combined to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
- Keep the Lid On While Cooking Dumplings – This helps them steam properly and stay soft.
- Add Peas at the End – This keeps them bright and slightly firm instead of overcooked.
- Customize Your Seasonings – Add a bay leaf, a pinch of smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for extra depth of flavor.
This Chicken Dumpling Soup is the perfect blend of warmth, heartiness, and classic comfort. Whether served on a chilly night or as a nourishing meal for the family, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Save this recipe and enjoy homemade comfort food at its best!
