Chicken and Dumpling Soup

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Add the chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes so the vegetables become tender and the flavors meld.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken and optional peas. Simmer for another 5 minutes. If you want a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream now. Keep the soup at a low simmer while preparing the dumplings.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Add the melted butter and milk, then stir just until a sticky dough forms. Do not overmix, or the dumplings may turn out dense.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough directly onto the simmering soup. They will float on top. Cover the pot with a lid and let them steam for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for cooking the dumplings properly.

Step 6: Final Touch

After 15 minutes, check the dumplings by cutting one in half — it should be fluffy and cooked through. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, making sure each serving has a few dumplings, some chicken, and plenty of vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

🌟 Tips for Success:

Don’t Overmix Dumpling Dough: Gentle mixing ensures light and fluffy dumplings.
Use Homemade Broth: For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or simmer a whole chicken with herbs for a couple of hours before beginning the recipe.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings and check that your broth is gluten-free.
Storage: The soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently so the dumplings don’t become mushy.

🥄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and Dumpling Soup brings together rustic, satisfying flavors with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply warming up on a cold night. With its nourishing broth, tender chicken, and pillow-like dumplings, this dish is a nostalgic reminder of why homemade comfort food will never go out of style.

Now that you have this recipe in your culinary toolkit, get ready to impress your family—or just treat yourself—to a bowl of pure, cozy goodness.