👨‍🍳 Homemade Chicken Dumpling Soup Recipe | Comfort Food

by | Jun 29, 2024 | Chicken Soup Recipes

Can you get the taste of homemade chicken dumpling soup without a lot of work? Yes, you can! This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients to create a delicious chicken dumpling soup in less than 40 minutes. It’s both comforting and full of flavor.

This soup is great for a quiet night at home or as a family dinner. It mixes the ease of using a rotisserie chicken with the comfort of a traditional soup. It’s a perfect choice for anyone, whether you cook a lot or a little, who wants to enjoy easy chicken dumpling soup.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Quick and easy preparation with rotisserie chicken and refrigerated biscuit dough.
  • Traditional flavors and creamy, herby broth ready in about 40 minutes.
  • Perfect for cozy evenings and hearty family meals.
  • Customizable with additional vegetables like carrots and celery.
  • Simple steps to achieve tender dumplings and rich broth.

Introduction to Chicken Dumpling Soup

Chicken dumpling soup is loved by everyone and always has been. It’s known for its creamy broth, soft chicken, and light dumplings. This dish not only fills the stomach but also brings back good memories.

What Makes It the Ultimate Comfort Food

Chicken dumpling soup wins hearts with its simple yet rich taste. It gets its smoothness from heavy cream and chicken stock. Carrots, celery, and chicken pieces make it hearty. And the soft dumplings add a nice touch.

“There’s something innately calming about a warm bowl of chicken dumpling soup that’s not only a staple in our kitchen but a reminder of simpler times.”

Making this soup takes 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for busy life. Plus, you can keep it in the fridge and heat it up whenever you want.

History and Popularity

Chicken dumpling soup is from Europe in the 1600s, so it has a long history. It later became a big hit in the American South. Even now, people all over the world enjoy its classic taste.

This soup gets a 5-star rating and serves a family of four well. Each serving has 337 calories and lots of nutrients. Cooking it on the stove ensures the dumplings come out just right.

It includes garlic, parsley, and basil for a tasty smell. These flavors make the soup a favorite for many. It embodies comfort and closeness in every bowl.

Ingredients Needed for Homemade Chicken Dumpling Soup

Making a classic chicken dumpling soup is all about getting the right mix of ingredients. This soup is heartwarming and perfect for anyone at the table. We’ll look at what goes in it and some healthy swaps.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

For the perfect taste of chicken dumpling soup, you must use these essentials:

  • Butter: For a rich and deep soup base flavor.
  • Onions, Carrots, and Celery: They make a tasty base called mirepoix.
  • Garlic: Adds a bit of sharp flavor.
  • Dried Herbs (thyme, black pepper, salt): Thyme, black pepper, and salt make the taste better.
  • Flour: It thickens the soup just right.
  • Chicken Broth: It’s the main liquid, bringing a meaty taste.
  • Shredded Cooked Chicken: Gives the soup protein and makes it satisfying.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds silky texture and creaminess.
  • Frozen Peas: Offers color and sweetness.
  • Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: For light and airy dumplings.

Substitutions and Alternatives

Looking for a healthier option or need to avoid certain foods? You can make some changes without losing the soul of the dish. Here’s how:

  • Olive Oil instead of butter for less saturated fat.
  • Half and Half instead of cream to cut on calories and fat but keep it creamy.
  • Use pre-chopped mirepoix and garlic powder for quick and healthy subs.

Knowing the essentials and smart swaps means everyone can savor chicken dumpling soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start your cooking journey with this easy chicken dumpling soup. These steps will guide you to a delicious meal filled with flavor and warmth.

Preparation Steps

First, collect all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need these items:

  • ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
  • 3 carrots, cut into ½-inch dice
  • 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • 5 cups (1200 ml) chicken broth
  • â…“ cup (80 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 4 cups cooked chicken, diced small
  • 3 tablespoons minced parsley

For the dumplings, gather these ingredients:

  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk

Make sure you have a Dutch oven ready for cooking too.

Cooking Directions

Use these steps to make the perfect chicken dumpling soup:

  1. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven on medium heat.
  2. SautĂ© the carrots and celery until they’re soft.
  3. Add garlic and thyme, cooking until they smell good.
  4. Stir in the flour to make the soup thicker.
  5. Slowly add the broth, stirring to prevent lumps. Let it boil, then simmer.
  6. Mix in the cream, salt, and pepper. Blend the flavors well.
  7. Put in the peas and chicken to warm them.
  8. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk until just combined for the dumplings.
  9. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mix into the soup, then cover and cook for 15 minutes.
  10. Finish by sprinkling with parsley just before serving.

Use this table for a full look at ingredients and nutrition info for the soup:

Ingredient Quantity Calories Carbohydrates Protein Fat
Simple Chicken Dumpling Soup 1 serving (of 6) 500 46g 36g 19g

simple chicken dumpling soup

Following these steps will lead to a hearty and tasty chicken dumpling soup. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Dumpling Soup

Making top-notch chicken dumpling soup is all about great ingredients and key tips. Get ready to cook an amazing meal with these easy-to-follow steps.

  • Season Generously: Adding salt at each stage boosts taste. But be careful, too much salt too soon leads to less flavor.
  • Do Not Peek: Avoid opening the lid while the dumplings cook. A steady steam won’t form if the temperature keeps changing.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle your dish with crisp parsley, thyme, and rosemary for a zesty touch.
  • Proper Ingredient Measures: Use 3/4 cup of flour for the dumpling dough to keep them soft. With 1 1/2 pounds of diced chicken and 64 ounces of low-sodium broth, your soup will be full of flavor.
  • Gentle Simmering: Let the soup simmer gently. This cooking method ensures the flavors deepen and the chicken stays tender.

“The first time I made this recipe, I received so many compliments on the rich flavor and perfectly cooked dumplings. Following these tips truly makes the best chicken dumpling in_soup recipe tips a success.” – Satisfied Home Cook

Below are the nutrition facts and some advice on how to store your chicken dumpling soup for later:

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 274 kcal
Carbohydrates 18g
Protein 26g
Fat 11g

To keep soup fresh, store it right. You can refrigerate it for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months, perfect for planning ahead.

How to Know When Dumplings are Cooked

To cook perfect dumplings, you need the right technique. It’s also important to watch how they look and taste. This helps make sure your dumplings are soft and tasty, perfect for soup.

Visual and Taste Indicators

Looking at the size is a great indicator for dumplings. When they’re finished, they should be much bigger. Often, they’ll double or even triple in size.

Another thing to look for is the way they appear in the soup. A cooked dumpling will float to the top. And to check if they’re truly done, cut one open. It should look fluffy with a soft center and some bubbles.

Taste is also key. A well-cooked dumpling won’t be hard in the middle. It will be light and airy. If you need more proof, try poking a toothpick into one. If it comes out clean, they’re ready to eat.

Timing Tips

Cook dumplings by simmering them gently with the lid on. This uses the steam to cook them just right. It usually takes about 15 minutes for them to be fully done. But, thicker or bigger dumplings might need more time.

Watching the clock and how you cook is key to perfect dumplings. With the right timing and knowing what you’re looking for, your dumplings will be a hit in your soup.

Indicator Details
Size Dumplings double or triple in size
Position Dumplings rise to the top of the soup
Internal Texture Soft, biscuit-like consistency with air bubbles
Toothpick Test Toothpick inserted comes out clean
Simmering Time Approximately 15 minutes, adjust if needed

Chicken Dumpling Soup Recipe Made Easy

Making a comforting chicken dumpling soup is easier than you might think. The secret to this easy chicken dumpling soup recipe is smart shortcuts that don’t skimp on taste. It blends the cozy warmth of homemade soup with smart cooking hacks.

This recipe takes only 45 minutes, perfect for a quick dinner any weeknight. Gather ingredients like rotisserie chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and seasonings. Don’t forget the bake ‘n serve biscuits, flour, and butter. And a splash of olive oil, too. easy chicken dumpling soup recipe

Here’s a quick guide on making this soup:

  • First, sautĂ© carrots, celery, and onions in a mix of olive oil and butter until soft.
  • Then, add the rotisserie chicken, shredded into small pieces.
  • Mix in thyme, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add flour to thicken.
  • Carefully pour in the chicken stock while stirring to avoid clumps.
  • Let it simmer and add the refrigerated biscuits to form the dumplings.
  • Cook for 15 minutes until the dumplings are light and fluffy.

This recipe serves four and is about 340 calories per portion. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For a twist, use turkey or add peas. It’s okay to use canned biscuits or cream of chicken soup for creaminess.

Ingredients Function
Rotisserie Chicken Provides tender, pre-cooked meat
Carrots, Celery, Onions Adds flavor and nutrients to the broth
Thyme, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes Seasonings for enhanced taste
Chicken Stock Forms the base liquid of the soup
Refrigerated Biscuits Serves as quick dumplings
Flour, Butter, Olive Oil Thickening agents and fat for cooking

Serve this soup with a salad, cornbread, or rolls for a full meal. This recipe lets you enjoy great, easy-to-make soup in no time. Happy eating!

Step-by-Step Visual Guide

Cooking chicken dumpling soup is made simple with our guide. You’ll get step-by-step photo tips and a video tutorial. This helps you make a delicious soup without any doubts.

Photo Instructions

With our chicken dumpling soup photo instructions, cooking won’t feel hard. Just follow these photos to get the perfect meal:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Roast a 5 lb whole chicken at 425°F until golden brown. Let it cool, then shred the meat.
  2. Make the Stock: In a large pot, combine the bones with 2 quarts of water. Simmer for 2-6 hours for rich flavor.
  3. Mix the Dumplings: Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, and 1 teaspoon Kosher sea salt. Add 2 tablespoons butter, 3/4 cup milk, and 1/4 cup chopped herbs.
  4. Cook the Soup: In another pot, bring 6 cups of chicken broth to a simmer. Add shredded chicken and dumplings, cooking for 15-25 minutes until done.

Video Tutorial

Don’t miss our video tutorial for a full guide. It’s the best companion to the chicken dumpling soup photo instructions. Together, they ensure you nail the recipe at home.

Customization and Variations

What’s great about chicken dumpling soup is you can really make it your own. You can do this by adding your favorite vegetables or by spicing it up. This makes it a comfort food that reflects your personal taste and style.

Adding Different Veggies

Adding veggies not only makes the soup healthier but also adds different tastes and feels. You can make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and using veggie broth. Don’t forget, items like mushrooms, bell peppers, or frozen peas can really enhance the dish.

Here is a short list of some veggie options:

  • Bell Peppers: Add them for a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
  • Mushrooms: Enhance the umami taste of the soup.
  • Frozen Peas: Throw them in towards the end for color and freshness.

Tinkering with the veggies can lead to a truly unique soup, tailored to your liking.

Spicing It Up

If you want to make your soup more exciting, think about the spices. Soy sauce, various herbs, and black pepper can really change up the flavor. It’s all about adjusting these flavors to suit your own taste.

Here’s a table to guide you on various spices and their effects:

Spice/Herb Effect on Soup
Soy Sauce Enhances umami flavor.
Ground Black Pepper Adds a subtle heat and depth.
Fresh Herbs (e.g., Thyme, Rosemary) Infuses aromatic flavors.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match seasonings until you create a soup that’s perfect for you.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Boosting your chicken dumpling soup with great pairings can take your meal to a whole new level. These include side dishes that work well and the best drinks. Here are our top suggestions.

Best Side Dishes

Enjoy your chicken dumpling soup even more. Just add these tasty side dishes for a full and tasty meal:

chicken dumpling soup pairings

  • Crusty Bread: Have it with warm and crusty bread. Ideal choices are dinner rolls, cornbread, or garlic bread to soak up the flavors.
  • Vegetable Side Dishes: Consider roasted potatoes, green beans, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Their freshness complements the soup’s richness.
  • Savory Appetizers: Tasty appetizers like mozzarella sticks, deviled eggs, and baked mac and cheese bites are perfect to start.
  • Fresh Salads: A variety of fresh salads refresh the meal. You can pick a green salad, Caprese Pasta Salad, or broccoli salad.
  • Potato Dishes: Options include baked potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, and herbed garlic mash. They add a cozy touch.
  • Hearty Casseroles: Green bean casserole and sweet potato casserole bring in a warm and comforting feel.
  • Fruit Options: For something sweet, try cinnamon baked apples, crockpot applesauce, or a fresh fruit salad.

Perfect Beverages

Complete your meal with drinks that go great with chicken dumpling soup:

  1. White Wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can bring out the savory flavors. It’s a great pairing.
  2. Warm Cider: Spiced warm cider is comforting and smells great too. Perfect for the season.
  3. Refreshing Iced Tea: Iced tea refreshes your taste buds and balances the meal’s richness.
Side Dish Description
Dinner Rolls Soft yet crispy bread that complements the hearty soup.
Roasted Potatoes Subtle flavor and satisfying texture pair well with soft dumplings.
Caprese Pasta Salad Fresh and tangy, adds a refreshing bite to the meal.
Green Bean Casserole Hearty and homey, blends well with the comforting soup.
Fruit Salad Sweet and fresh, offers a delightful contrast.

How to Thicken Chicken Dumpling Soup

Learn the best way to thicken your chicken dumpling soup. It turns a simple recipe into a hearty, fulfilling meal. Gliding through different methods brings that perfect thickness.

  1. Roux method: The roux method is a classic. Mix flour and a fat (like butter) in equal parts. Cook it until it turns golden. This adds a deep richness to your soup.
  2. Dumpling starch: After adding dumplings, your soup should boil for 15 minutes. The starch from the dumplings naturally makes the broth thicker. This enhances the soups’ body and texture.
  3. Cornstarch slurry: For those who prefer a thicker consistency, try a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1/3 cup of liquid. Slowly add and stir into the soup as it simmers. It will thicken as you like.

For a classic taste, make the dumpling dough with 2 cups of flour and Âľ cup of buttermilk. Drop spoonfuls of it into your soup for a homely feel.

By mixing these proven techniques, you can thicken your soup the right way. Experiment to match your preferred texture, whether you love flat noodles or puffy biscuits.

Here is a comparison of the nutritional components of the soup and dumplings per serving:

Nutrient Soup Dumplings
Calories 397 102
Carbohydrates 43g 8g
Protein 16g 17g
Fat 18g 17g
Sodium 1158mg 106mg
Potassium 604mg 41mg

Try these methods and ingredients. They’ll make your chicken dumpling soup thick and satisfying. Perfect for cool nights or a cozy dinner anytime.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing and reheating chicken dumpling soup right keeps it tasty. Use these tips to keep your soup yummy.

Refrigeration Techniques

Put your chicken dumpling soup in airtight containers for best results. This stops it from getting tastes from other foods and stays fresh. Keep the soup and dumplings apart to keep the crunch. You can keep soup in the fridge for five days, meaning you can enjoy it all week.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing your soup can make it last even longer. Divide it into single servings before freezing. That way, it can stay good for up to six months. Don’t forget to put a date on the container to keep track.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

To make your soup taste as good as new, mix in some broth or cream. Reheat it on the stove for better flavor control and to avoid overcooking. Microwaving works too; just remember to stir now and then. These tips will keep your soup full of comfort and flavor.

Steps Details
Refrigeration Use airtight containers, store for up to five days
Freezing Portion into single servings, freeze up to six months
Reheating Add broth or cream, reheat on stovetop or microwave

Rotisserie Chicken vs. Fresh Chicken

For a quick, tasty chicken dumpling soup, many cooks go with rotisserie chicken. It’s a hit for busy folks because it cuts down cooking time to just 30 minutes. The already tender chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy dumplings, ideal for weekdays.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi8KieDoI7I

Fresh chicken, though, adds a lot to the soup’s flavor. It brings a richer, more authentic taste. But, cooking it takes more time. Still, many enjoy this deeper taste.

Aspect Rotisserie Chicken Fresh Chicken
Preparation Time 20 minutes Variable, typically longer
Cooking Time 10 minutes Variable, typically longer
Flavor Intensity Moderate High
Convenience High Low
Texture Tender Tender

Each chicken type has its pros, fitting different tastes and schedules. Rotisserie makes it quick; fresh, more flavorful. This choice lets everyone enjoy a great meal.

Health Benefits of Chicken Dumpling Soup

Chicken dumpling soup is packed with protein and veggies. It tastes great and helps you stay healthy. This meal is perfect for staying warm and well.

Nutritious Ingredients

This soup starts with 8 cups of low-sodium chicken stock. That means less salt but still tasty. It also has 2 cups of pre-cooked chicken for strong muscles.

Adding 2 carrots, 2 celery ribs, and an onion boosts its vitamins and minerals. This makes the soup even better for you.

Olive oil is good for your heart and used in this recipe. It’s full of healthy fats. Herbs like dried thyme and cassava flour make it rich in antioxidants and safe for gluten-free eaters.

The dumplings use buttermilk instead of fatty options. This cuts down on extra fat. It keeps the dish tasty and healthy.

Low-Calorie Modifications

This dish can be even healthier with some changes. Using low-fat milk lowers calories without losing taste. Flour is used for thickness, not heavy cream.

Simple drop biscuits make dumplings and cooking time shorter. They are great for busy days. Using rotisserie chicken saves cooking time. The soup lasts 5 days in the fridge but doesn’t freeze well because it makes the dumplings mushy.

Ingredient Quantity Health Benefit
Low-Sodium Chicken Stock 8 cups Reduces sodium intake
Pre-Cooked Chicken 2 cups Provides lean protein
Carrots 2 Rich in vitamins and minerals
Celery Ribs 2 High in antioxidants
Onion 1 Boosts immune function
Olive Oil 1 tbsp Provides monounsaturated fats
Buttermilk 1 1/2 cups Lower in fat

In the colder seasons, this nutritious soup is a must for your table. It boosts your immune system and keeps you healthy.

Reader Testimonials and Reviews

Our Creamy Chicken and Dumplings Soup recipe is a hit with readers. Many families now enjoy it regularly. It’s become a must-have dish in homes, known as a family favorite chicken dumpling soup.

What Readers Are Saying

Readers love this soup for many reasons. One person said their whole family, even a picky 8-year-old, loved it. They also noted the recipe is simple, needing only 15 ingredients and four tools. It’s healthy too, with 255 calories per serving and good macros.

Rating Comments Reviewer
5 Stars My whole family loved it, including my picky eater! Verified Reader
5 Stars Simple to make and incredibly comforting. Verified Reader

How It Became a Family Favorite

This recipe is loved for being customizable. It can be made gluten-free and vegan. You can also use what you have, like heavy cream or tofu, without losing the great taste.

There are tips that make it even better, like not opening the lid while cooking dumplings. Using fresh garlic is another tip. These small but important details make our recipe stand out as a top choice for many.

Conclusion

This homemade chicken dumpling soup is the perfect comfort food. It was first shared in May 2015 and was last updated in February 2023. It always delivers a warm and hearty meal. Ready in under 40 minutes and using canned biscuits, it’s perfect for busy cooks.

The soup includes onion, carrots, celery, thyme, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. It also has shredded chicken and refrigerated biscuit dough. This mix gives you a tasty soup. It’s easy to store leftovers, and you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. You can even make it thicker if you prefer.

This soup is great for families. Each serving is 341kcal, which has 38g of carbs, 8g of protein, and 18g of fat. You can use leftover chicken or fresh chicken in this dish. Its warm and filling qualities make it beloved in many homes. The homemade chicken dumpling soup is truly a classic in comfort food. It’s always a win. In fact, it symbolizes timeless comfort and satisfaction.

FAQ

What makes chicken dumpling soup the ultimate comfort food?

Chicken dumpling soup has a creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings. It brings warmth and nostalgia, making it a comfort food. It’s loved across various cultures.

What are the key ingredients in this delicious chicken dumpling soup recipe?

Key ingredients are butter, onions, carrots, and celery. You’ll also need garlic, herbs, flour, and chicken broth. Adding rotisserie chicken, cream, and peas gives it heartiness. Finish off with biscuit dough for dumplings.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this traditional chicken dumpling soup?

Yes, you can swap ingredients to suit your diet. Olive oil can replace butter. You can use half and half instead of cream. Chopped mirepoix and garlic powder add a shortcut without losing flavor.

What are the steps to make this simple chicken dumpling soup?

Start by sautéing mirepoix, garlic, and herbs. Add flour to make a roux and thicken the broth. Then, include the chicken, cream, peas, and bay leaves. Finally, lay biscuit dough on top to cook into dumplings.

How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?

Finished dumplings are significantly bigger and a toothpick comes out clean. They need to be cooked covered in steam for about 15 minutes.

What are some tips for making the best chicken dumpling soup?

Season well, and resist the urge to open while dumplings cook. Top with freshly chopped parsley. Salting, flouring biscuit dough, and simmering gently are key for great taste and texture.

Is there a way to thicken chicken dumpling soup if I want a denser consistency?

To make the soup denser, use a roux. You can also include starch from the dumplings. For more thickening, a cornstarch slurry works well.

Can this homemade chicken dumpling soup recipe be customized?

Absolutely! You can add various veggies and tweak the spices. This allows you to make the recipe your own.

What are some good side dishes and beverages to pair with chicken dumpling soup?

Enjoy with crusty bread or a fresh salad. White wine or warm cider goes well with the soup, enhancing the meal.

How should I store and reheat chicken dumpling soup?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container. Separating dumplings can avoid sogginess. It can also be frozen. To reheat, use a bit of broth or cream. Thoroughly and slowly reheat on the stove or in the microwave for best results.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken in this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy choice. For a richer taste, fresh chicken is great but takes longer to prepare.

What are the health benefits of chicken dumpling soup?

This soup is packed with protein and vitamins. You can make it lower in calories with some simple changes or smaller servings. It’s good for those watching their health.