Chicken Dumplings Soup

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté 5-6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more until fragrant.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in chicken broth and water, then add thyme and rosemary. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 10-15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
3. Add Chicken and Peas: Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas. Simmer 5 minutes more until heated through.
4. Prepare the Dumpling Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk and melted butter, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix – the dough should be slightly sticky.
5. Add Dumplings to the Soup: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the simmering soup. Cover and cook 12-15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid to ensure fluffy dumplings.
6. Finish the Soup: Stir in heavy cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs (optional).

Cooking Notes

• Dumpling Tip: Ensure the soup is gently simmering when adding dumplings. The steam helps them cook and become fluffy.
• Chicken Options: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast to save time. Shredded dark meat adds richer flavor.
• Creamy Texture: Heavy cream creates a velvety texture. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Variations

• Herbed Dumplings: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (parsley, dill, chives) to the dumpling dough.
• Vegetable Additions: Add diced potatoes, green beans, or corn for a heartier soup.
• Spicy Chicken & Dumplings: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For a keto or low-carb version:

• Dumpling Substitute: Use almond flour and cheese-based dumplings.
• Vegetable Substitute: Use low-carb vegetables like cauliflower and zucchini.
• Thickening the Soup: Use xanthan gum or heavy cream instead of flour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! Make the soup base ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Add dumplings just before serving.

Can I Freeze Chicken & Dumplings Soup?

Yes, but freeze the soup without dumplings. Dumplings may become soggy when frozen and reheated. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth or water as needed.

What Should I Serve with Chicken & Dumplings Soup?

This soup is hearty enough on its own, but a side salad or crusty bread complements it well.

Enjoy this timeless comfort food! Experiment with variations and share your favorites!

Looking for More Hearty Soups?

Check out our other soup recipes for more delicious options!