When the cold winds blow and the weather turns frosty, nothing beats the warmth of a bowl of homemade soup. And if you’re craving something truly comforting, this Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup will quickly become your go-to dish. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and light, fluffy dumplings floating in a rich, savory broth, this recipe is the perfect meal to help you unwind and cozy up. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to warm you from the inside out, making it the ideal comfort food for chilly days.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a slow weekend meal, this chicken and dumpling soup delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how easy it is to bring this delicious bowl of comfort to your table.
Ingredients :
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds a rich sweetness to the soup base.
- 2 carrots, diced – Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Offers crunch and fresh flavor to balance the texture.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the soup with savory goodness.
- 6 cups chicken broth – Forms the heart of the soup, providing a flavorful base.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Provides a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle aromatic depth to the broth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
For the Dumplings:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for the dumplings, making them tender and light.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the dumplings rise and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Elevates the flavor of the dumplings.
- 3/4 cup whole milk – Creates a soft, moist dough for the dumplings.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – Adds richness to the dumplings’ texture.
How to Make Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter (or olive oil, if you prefer) and add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and begin to develop a lovely golden color. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the savory aroma of the garlic to fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried thyme and the bay leaf, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally. Add the shredded chicken, ensuring it mixes well with the broth and vegetables.
Step 3: Make the Dumplings
While the soup is simmering, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it should be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) gently into the simmering soup. Do not stir once the dumplings are in the pot; simply cover the pot with a lid. Allow the dumplings to cook undisturbed for 10 to 12 minutes. The steam will help the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy, so avoid lifting the lid during this time.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the bay leaf from the soup and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good amount of dumplings. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve this soul-warming dish with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Savory Flavor: The broth is savory, flavorful, and rich, complementing the tender chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- Fluffy Dumplings: The dumplings are light, airy, and perfectly absorb the delicious broth, making each bite a comforting experience.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make a hearty, restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
- Customizable: Whether you add peas, corn, or mushrooms, or swap chicken for turkey, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, high-quality chicken broth, and fresh vegetables make all the difference in flavor. Opt for homemade chicken broth if possible, or choose a good-quality store-bought one for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: When making the dumplings, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can make them tough instead of fluffy.
- Proper Dumpling Cooking Time: The dumplings should cook through in 10–12 minutes. If you lift the lid too early, the steam necessary for fluffiness will escape. Keep the lid on during cooking!
- Storing Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Conclusion :
This Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings both comfort and joy with every spoonful. Whether you’re in need of a hearty dinner after a long day or just looking to warm up on a chilly afternoon, this recipe checks all the boxes. The tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and pillowy dumplings make for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s a perfect dish to enjoy on snowy evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you need a little extra warmth and comfort.
So the next time the temperature drops, grab your ingredients and make this delightful chicken and dumplings soup. It’s bound to become a staple in your comfort-food rotation, bringing smiles and satisfaction to everyone at your table. Enjoy the cozy, flavorful goodness!
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