Name: Cozy Chicken Dumpling Soup for Ultimate Comfort and Warmth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (substitute with avocado oil for a more neutral flavor); 1 medium yellow onion (diced; can use shallots or leeks for milder flavor); 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or shredded rotisserie chicken); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or use fresh minced garlic); 1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1 teaspoon sage (to taste); 1 teaspoon thyme (to taste); 1 teaspoon rosemary (to taste); 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium or homemade for better control of salt levels); 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (fresh vegetables can be used if preferred); 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (coconut milk for dairy-free alternative); 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free all-purpose flour for gluten-free version); 1 tablespoon baking powder (ensure freshness); 2 tablespoons chives (or substitute with green onions)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Walking into the kitchen on a chilly evening, the aroma of simmering Chicken Dumpling Soup wraps around me like a cozy blanket. It’s the perfect remedy for any cold day, a heartwarming bowl filled with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth that brings comfort to the soul. This nourishing stovetop Chicken Dumpling Soup can be prepped in just an hour, making it a quick, wholesome meal for busy nights or lazy weekends. Plus, with the ability to make it gluten-free and dairy-free, everyone can indulge without the guilt. Have you ever wished you could savor a bowl of nostalgia? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises warm memories with every spoonful!

Why is Chicken Dumpling Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth: Each bowl of Chicken Dumpling Soup embraces you with its rich, creamy broth and tender chicken, making it the ultimate cold-weather favorite.
Quick preparation: On busy nights or lazy weekends, you can whip up this nourishing dish in just one hour—perfect for your schedule.
Customizable options: Want to make it gluten-free and dairy-free? Easily swap in alternatives, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy!
Crowd-pleasing dish: No one can resist a steaming bowl of this delightful soup, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Try pairing it with a side of Garlic Chicken Zucchini for a complete meal!
Nostalgic flavors: With each spoonful, you’ll be transported back to childhood memories—comfort food at its finest.

Chicken Dumpling Soup Ingredients

Experience the joy of cooking with these simple ingredients!

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Provides fat needed for sautéing aromatics; substitute with avocado oil for a more neutral flavor.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup base; use shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source that ensures a tender texture; cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken can speed up preparation.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; feel free to substitute with fresh minced garlic for a pop of freshness.
Black Pepper, Salt, Sage, Thyme, Rosemary – Spices that deliver savory notes; adjust according to taste or substitute with your favorite Italian seasoning.
Chicken Broth – A flavorful foundation for the soup; low-sodium broth or homemade options give better control over salt levels.
Frozen Peas and Carrots – Nutrient-rich vegetables that offer convenience; fresh vegetables can be used if you prefer.

For the Creamy Dumplings

Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – Adds a luxurious richness to the soup; coconut milk can serve as a dairy-free alternative.
All-Purpose Flour – The base for dumplings, providing essential structure; gluten-free all-purpose flour is a great swap for gluten-free versions.
Baking Powder – A crucial leavening agent for fluffy dumplings; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Chives – Imparts a mild onion flavor to the dumplings; they can be omitted or replaced with green onions for a similar taste.

Get ready to savor the robust flavors and heartwarming essence of this Chicken Dumpling Soup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Dumpling Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add one diced yellow onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your Chicken Dumpling Soup, providing a sweet and savory foundation for the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Season
Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, followed by 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, salt, black pepper, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and stir well. Cover the pot and let it simmer on medium heat for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the herb-infused flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
While the chicken simmers, create the dumplings by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half until smooth. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough is sticky but well combined—this texture ensures fluffy dumplings.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Veggies
After 20 minutes, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream for added richness. Allow the soup to gently simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Drop in the Dumplings
Using a small spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the dumpling dough into the gently simmering soup. Make sure to space them evenly to allow room for expansion. Cover the pot and cook for 10 minutes without lifting the lid. This steaming process cooks the dumplings through and creates that fluffy texture we love in Chicken Dumpling Soup.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings have puffed up and are cooked through, ladle the warm Chicken Dumpling Soup into bowls. Garnish it with freshly chopped chives or parsley for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy this comforting soup on a chilly evening, and relish every heartwarming spoonful filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings!

Storage Tips for Chicken Dumpling Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Dumpling Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat.
Dumpling Storage: If you have extra dumplings, freeze them separately and add them to the reheated soup right before serving for optimal fluffiness.
Make-Ahead Tips: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld, making it a great choice for meal prep or batch cooking!

Expert Tips for Chicken Dumpling Soup

Dumpling Size Matters: Ensure you use small amounts of dough (½ teaspoon) for each dumpling. This prevents them from becoming dense and ensures that they remain fluffy in your Chicken Dumpling Soup.
Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough. A light hand will maintain that lovely fluffy texture we all crave in our dumplings.
Store Wisely: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup without dumplings for up to 3 months.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs where possible for a richer flavor, but dried herbs work fine too—just adjust quantities to taste!
Broth Choices: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, or use homemade broth for an extra layer of flavor in your Chicken Dumpling Soup.

What to Serve with Nourishing Stovetop Chicken Dumpling Soup?

When you’re cozying up with a warm bowl of soup, it’s delightful to enhance that comfort with the perfect sides or pairings.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and savory garlic flavor beautifully contrast the creamy broth, perfect for dipping and savoring every bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with seasonal greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
Steamed Broccoli: The bright green addition brings a nutritious element, while the crispness of the broccoli offers a satisfying texture alongside the comforting soup.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs pairs well, soaking up the broth’s flavors and enhancing the meal’s overall warmth.
Savory Biscuits: Flaky biscuits with a hint of cheese become the ideal companion, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
Perfectly Brewed Herbal Tea: A warm, calming tea such as chamomile or peppermint completes the experience, soothing the senses after a hearty meal.

These pairs will make your Chicken Dumpling Soup experience not only filling but also memorable, bringing together flavors and textures that dance on your palate!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Dumpling Soup preparations are a game changer for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can easily prepare the soup base (without dumplings) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the soup on the stovetop, then drop in freshly made dumplings (which can also be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours ahead). This maintains the dumplings’ fluffy texture while ensuring they cook perfectly. Just remember, avoid overmixing the dumpling dough to keep them light and fluffy. By prepping in advance, you’ll have a comforting, nourishing meal ready in no time!

Chicken Dumpling Soup Variations

Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make this Chicken Dumpling Soup uniquely yours!

Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey for a delicious post-holiday treat. This twist adds a rich, savory flavor perfect for winter evenings.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in fresh corn or green beans for added color and nutrients. This not only elevates the nutrition profile, but it also adds delightful crunch!
Gluten-Free Dumplings: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in your dumpling mixture for a friendly option. You won’t sacrifice fluffiness, and everyone can enjoy these comforting dumplings!
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory broth beautifully.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique spin. These aromatic additions bring a fresh pop that brightens the dish.
Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. The heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup base, creating a comforting, spicy experience.
Rotisserie Chicken Option: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. This shortcut provides convenience without compromising on flavor!
Creamy Vegan Version: Make it vegan by omitting chicken and cream, replacing them with tofu and a plant-based cream. Trust me, this alternative remains deliciously hearty and satisfying!

Don’t forget to complement your soup with a side of Oven Baked Chicken or a light salad for a complete meal.

Chicken Dumpling Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Dumpling Soup?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and ease of shredding. However, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!

How should I store leftover Chicken Dumpling Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If it thickens upon cooling, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.

Can I freeze Chicken Dumpling Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, I suggest portioning out the soup without dumplings in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on low heat on the stovetop. If you have extra dumplings, freeze them separately and add them just before serving for that perfect fluffy texture!

How can I adjust Chicken Dumpling Soup for dietary restrictions?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap out regular all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend in the dumplings. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream in both the soup and dumplings. This way, everyone can savor the comforting goodness!

What if my dumplings are dense?
To keep your dumplings light and fluffy, make sure to use small amounts of dough—half a teaspoon works best! Also, avoid overmixing the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients. If they’re still dense, next time, you may want to check your baking powder to ensure it’s fresh and effective.

How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings should puff up and float to the top of the soup within about 10 minutes of cooking. To check for doneness, you can gently insert a toothpick into a dumpling; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to be served. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Dumpling Soup!