“The Perfect Bowl of Comfort for Chilly Days!”
This Chicken & Dumplings Soup combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, creamy broth. It’s warm, comforting, and sure to become a family favorite for cozy nights at home.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Cream
- Stir in the shredded chicken and milk (or cream). Simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
- While the soup simmers, prepare the dumplings: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter, milk, and parsley (if using) until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the simmering soup. Avoid overcrowding.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 12–15 minutes. They should be light, fluffy, and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of dumplings and chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, hearty, and satisfying—perfect for cold days.
- One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup and fuss-free cooking.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
- Keep the Lid On: While cooking the dumplings, avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain steam.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, add peas, green beans, or corn during the last 5 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens.
This Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl—perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little warmth and love. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad, and enjoy! 🍲❤️✨