Homemade Chicken Dumpling Soup

On chilly evenings when the family gathers around the table after a long day, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of Chicken Dumpling Soup. This homemade version brings together tender chunks of chicken, colorful diced vegetables, and pillowy dumplings that soak up the creamy broth, creating layers of comforting flavor with every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug from the kitchen.

What I appreciate most is how this Chicken Dumpling Soup fits seamlessly into busy schedules, ready in just over an hour with mostly pantry staples. Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day, and the peas add a pop of sweetness that even picky eaters enjoy. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends, making it a go-to for nourishing those you love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a Bowl: This Chicken Dumpling Soup delivers cozy, creamy warmth with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about an hour, it’s perfect for busy moms needing a hearty meal without hours of prep.
• Family Favorite: The fresh veggies and subtle seasoning make it appealing to all ages, with make-ahead options for stress-free serving.
• Versatile Comfort Food: Enjoy it as is or customize with extra herbs, fitting seamlessly into fall or winter routines.

Chicken Dumpling Soup Ingredients

The ingredients in this Chicken Dumpling Soup come together to create a balanced, hearty dish where the creamy broth highlights the savory chicken and fresh vegetables. Opting for high-quality, fresh produce and low-sodium broth enhances the natural flavors, resulting in a soup that’s both nourishing and delicious without feeling heavy.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein that infuses the broth with rich flavor as it cooks.
• Kosher Salt: Seasons the chicken and soup base for balanced taste throughout.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to enhance the savory elements without overpowering.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, it adds a light, healthy fat for better browning.
• Unsalted Butter: Contributes creaminess and depth when sautéing vegetables.
• Carrots: Offer natural sweetness and vibrant color, softening into tender bites.
• Celery Stalks: Bring a fresh, earthy crunch that balances the richer components.
• Yukon Gold Potato: Adds hearty texture and subtle starchiness to thicken the soup naturally.
• Yellow Onion: Forms the aromatic base, providing savory depth to the broth.
• Poultry Seasoning: Infuses classic herby notes that complement the chicken perfectly.
• Garlic: Delivers pungent aroma and warmth when minced and stirred in.
• All-Purpose Flour: Creates a smooth roux for the creamy, lump-free broth.
• 2% Milk: Lightens the soup while adding creaminess without excess fat.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Builds the flavorful liquid base, keeping sodium in check.
• Frozen Peas: Introduce a sweet, pop of green color and tenderness at the end.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley or Thyme: Garnishes for a bright, herbaceous finish.
• All-Purpose Flour (for Dumplings): Forms the structure for light, fluffy dumplings.
• Baking Powder: Helps the dumplings rise to pillowy perfection.
• Salt (for Dumplings): Seasons the dough for even flavor in every bite.
• Garlic Powder (for Dumplings): Adds subtle savory notes to the dumplings.
• 2% Milk (for Dumplings): Binds the dough into a thick, stiff consistency.

Note: The complete list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

How to Make Chicken Dumpling Soup

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with a portion of the salt and pepper, then heat the olive oil and some butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until browned on all sides, which takes just a few minutes, and set it aside; it will finish cooking later in the soup. This step builds a flavorful base without fully cooking the meat through.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot with the remaining butter, add the diced carrots, celery, potato, and onion, sautéing them for about 8-10 minutes until they soften and release their aromas. Stir in the poultry seasoning and minced garlic, cooking for one more minute to let the flavors bloom. This creates a solid foundation for the creamy broth ahead.

Step 3: Make the Roux and Simmer the Broth

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps before adding the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally as the mixture thickens. The result is a smooth, velvety base ready for the chicken and peas.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the soup simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder in a bowl, then stir in the milk until just combined into a thick, stiff dough. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes to relax the gluten. Avoid overmixing to ensure the dumplings stay fluffy.

Step 5: Add Chicken, Peas, and Dumplings

Return the seared chicken to the pot along with the frozen peas, bringing the soup back to a simmer. Drop half-tablespoon portions of the dumpling dough into the bubbling broth, spacing them out to allow room for expansion. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, removing any bay leaves if you added them. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. The soup is now ready to enjoy its comforting warmth.

Pro Tips for Success

• Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages to build flavor without overseasoning the creamy broth.
• Don’t Overmix Dough: Stir the dumpling batter just until combined to keep them fluffy and prevent toughness.
• Check Chicken Temp: Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken hits 165°F for safety and tenderness.
• Rest the Dough: Let the dumpling mixture sit for 5 minutes to help it hold shape in the simmering soup.
• Stir Roux Constantly: Whisk flour into vegetables steadily to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

How to Serve Chicken Dumpling Soup

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over each bowl of Chicken Dumpling Soup right before serving, as it adds a bright, herby contrast to the creamy broth. A light dusting of black pepper or even a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors without overwhelming the comforting base. These simple touches make the dish feel more vibrant and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the rich broth, creating a satisfying meal. A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing balance to the hearty warmth. For something heartier, roasted vegetables like broccoli add earthy notes that complement the chicken and dumplings nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in oversized mugs for a cozy, casual vibe during family movie nights, letting the steam rise invitingly. Layer it in clear bowls to showcase the colorful veggies and fluffy dumplings, making it visually appealing for guests. For kids, top with a fun shape made from extra herbs to encourage them to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers of Chicken Dumpling Soup in airtight containers in the fridge, where they keep well for a few days. The dumplings hold their texture best if not overcrowded, so portion them out separately if possible. Always cool the soup completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe bags, flattening them for easy thawing. It freezes beautifully for up to a month, though the dumplings may soften slightly upon reheating. Label with the date to keep track, and avoid refreezing once thawed.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to revive the creaminess without separating the broth. In the microwave, cover the bowl loosely and heat in short bursts, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying. This keeps the chicken tender and the overall dish cozy.

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