How to Make Chicken Dumpling Soup

Chicken dumpling soup with flat dumplings is a delicious and comforting Southern dish that features tender chicken and flavorful dumplings in a savory broth.

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Our chicken dumpling soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, fluffy homemade dumplings, and a savory broth that will warm your soul.

Ingredients for Chicken & Dumpling Soup

Chicken, fluffy dumplings, aromatic veggies, and flavorful broth make this chicken dumpling soup a comforting classic. Simple ingredients, big flavors!

Main ingredients

• Chicken: Chicken is the main protein in this recipe and provides a hearty and flavorful base for the soup. It adds richness, texture, and a savory taste that complements the other ingredients. You can start with roasting chicken, but for a quick weeknight meal, I like to start with leftover or rotisserie chicken.
• Chicken broth: Chicken broth serves as the liquid base for the soup, providing depth of flavor and a comforting aroma. It is made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables, which infuses the broth with a savory taste that enhances the overall soup experience.
• Onion: Onions are used to add a sweet and aromatic flavor to the soup. They contribute to the overall savory profile and help build a flavorful base. Onions also provide a subtle sweetness and a pleasant texture when cooked.
• Carrots: Carrots are a versatile vegetable that adds both flavor and color to the soup. They bring a touch of natural sweetness, along with a slightly earthy taste. Carrots also provide texture and nutritional value, making the soup more satisfying and visually appealing.
• Celery: Celery stalks add a refreshing and crunchy element to the soup. They have a mild, slightly bitter flavor that complements the other ingredients. Celery also contributes to the overall aroma and provides a textural contrast to the tender chicken and soft dumplings.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is used to add depth and complexity to the soup. Its pungent and aromatic qualities infuse the broth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Garlic brings a savory, slightly spicy note that harmonizes with the other ingredients and adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
• Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings used to enhance the taste of the soup. Salt helps to bring out the flavors of the ingredients, while pepper adds a touch of mild heat and complexity. They are used to season the soup to perfection, ensuring a well-balanced and delicious outcome.

How to Make

Cook chicken in broth, add veggies and seasonings, shred chicken, and add dumplings. Simmer it all together for a soul-soothing bowl of chicken dumpling soup

Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks:

1. Use homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor, or opt for a high-quality store-bought version.
2. Add herbs like thyme or parsley to the soup for an extra aromatic touch.
3. For extra tender chicken, use bone-in chicken pieces and remove the bones after cooking.
4. For a thicker soup, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering broth.
5. Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation.

Recipe Variations:

• Swap out the chicken for some turkey to make turkey dumpling soup.
• Add vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for a more colorful and nutritious soup.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the broth.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles, such as adding curry powder or Italian seasoning [paid link].

Serving Suggestions

1. Served with a tossed salad to complete the meal.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for added freshness.
3. Add a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use pre-made dumplings instead of making them from scratch? A: Yes, you can use pre-made dumplings from the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of whole chicken? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used. Adjust the cooking time as they cook faster than a whole chicken. Alternatively, use 3 cups of leftover shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken dumpling soup? A: Yes, you can freeze the soup without the dumplings. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

Q: Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup? A: Yes, you can cook the chicken and vegetables in a slow cooker [paid link]

Wine & Cocktail Pairings

Wine Pairings:

1. Chardonnay: A buttery and oak-aged Chardonnay pairs well with the rich flavors of chicken dumpling soup. The wine’s creamy texture and notes of vanilla and tropical fruits complement the savory broth and tender chicken.
2. Pinot Grigio: A crisp and light Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. The wine’s citrusy and floral notes, along with its vibrant acidity, provide a pleasant balance to the flavors of the soup.
3. Beaujolais: A fruity and medium-bodied Beaujolais, such as Beaujolais-Villages, pairs nicely with chicken dumpling soup. The wine’s red berry flavors, soft tannins, and bright acidity complement the dish without overpowering it.

Cocktail Pairings:

1. Classic Gin Martini: A gin martini with its clean and botanical flavors can be a delightful accompaniment to the soup. The cocktail’s crispness and herbal notes offer a refreshing contrast, making it a great choice to enjoy alongside the warm and comforting flavors of the dish.
2. Moscow Mule: The zingy and spicy flavors of a Moscow Mule, made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime, can complement the savory elements of the soup. The cocktail’s tangy and refreshing qualities provide a lively contrast that pairs well with the richness of the dish.
3. Whiskey Sour: A Whiskey Sour, made with bourbon or whiskey, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, offers a robust and tangy flavor profile that can harmonize with the soup. The cocktail’s citrusy and slightly sweet notes provide a balanced and enjoyable pairing option.