When the weather turns crisp and chilly, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Chicken Dumpling Soup to warm you up from the inside out. This classic comfort food is a perfect blend of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. Whether you’re coming in from a long day or simply craving a hearty meal, this Chicken Dumpling Soup is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction. It’s a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with irresistible flavors, making it a favorite in households across the country.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well covered. Stir in the dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Dumplings:
- While the soup is simmering, make the dumpling dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Dumplings to the Soup:
- Once the soup has finished simmering, gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the hot broth. The dumplings will expand and cook in the simmering liquid. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and have a fluffy texture.
- Finishing Touches:
- Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Adjust the seasoning of the soup with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Conclusion
This Chicken Dumpling Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and joy to the table. The tender chicken, savory broth, and light, fluffy dumplings create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make each spoonful satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, and enjoy the hearty, heartwarming goodness that only homemade soup can provide. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you need a bit of comfort, Chicken Dumpling Soup is always a good idea.
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman
