Chicken and Dumplings – Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, combining a rich, flavorful broth with tender chicken and soft, pillowy dumplings. This dish is perfect for cold days, family gatherings, or whenever you need a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different dietary preferences, and filled with home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients

• Chicken (bone-in or boneless)
• Onion
• Carrots
• Celery
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Milk or heavy cream
• Butter
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Thyme
• Parsley
• Bay leaves
• Water

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large pot, heat a bit of butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Place the chicken in the pot, season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and enough water to cover the chicken.
6. Add bay leaves and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender.

Step 2: Make the Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks.
2. Discard any bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

1. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering soup.
2. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream or milk for a richer texture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove bay leaves and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Gluten-Free Dumplings: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumpling dough.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook the chicken and broth in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours, then add dumplings at the end.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months (dumplings may soften upon reheating).
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

How do I make the dumplings fluffier?

Use fresh baking powder and avoid over-mixing the dough to ensure light and airy dumplings.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works well—just add it towards the end of cooking.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

A flour or cornstarch slurry can help thicken the broth if needed.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.

Do the dumplings cook in the broth?

Yes, they absorb flavor as they cook directly in the simmering soup.

Can I use biscuit dough instead?

Yes, refrigerated biscuit dough can be a quick alternative for dumplings.

How do I prevent dumplings from sticking together?

Drop them in separate areas and avoid stirring too soon.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Peas, corn, or green beans make great additions.

What herbs go well with chicken and dumplings?

Thyme, parsley, rosemary, and bay leaves enhance the flavor beautifully.

Is it possible to make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for veggies, pressure cook the chicken for 15 minutes, then cook dumplings on the simmer mode.

Conclusion

Chicken and dumplings is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort in every bite. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, this soup is a must-try for any home cook. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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