There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Chicken and Dumpling Soup to make any evening feel cozy and satisfying. This classic comfort food combines tender, juicy chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a family dinner, this soup is both nourishing and comforting. Whether you’re recovering from a cold, hosting guests, or simply craving a homestyle meal, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients for Chicken and Dumpling Soup
For the Soup Base:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds) or 4–5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 10 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 2 cups celery, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup whole milk
- Optional: fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) for added flavor
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- A sprinkle of black pepper
Required Kitchen Tools
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If using a whole chicken, rinse it thoroughly and remove excess fat. Place it in a large stockpot with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, about 45–50 minutes.
Step 2: Remove and Shred Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding bones and skin. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same stockpot with the chicken broth, add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Dumplings
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and milk gradually, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Optional: fold in fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Dumplings to Soup
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Cover the pot and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fully cooked and fluffy. Avoid lifting the lid too often to retain steam.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Remove bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Helpful Tips for a Perfect Dinner Soup
- Use homemade broth – It adds depth of flavor and makes your dinner extra special.
- Do not overcook dumplings – They cook quickly, so add them at the end to prevent sogginess.
- Add vegetables you love – Peas, corn, or green beans can be great additions.
- Freeze leftovers – Both soup and dumplings freeze well; store dumplings separately to maintain texture.
- Make it creamy – Add a splash of cream or milk for a richer, cozier dinner experience.
Nutritional Value (per serving, approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280–320 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg (adjust with low-sodium broth if desired)
Why This Soup is the Perfect Dinner
This Chicken and Dumpling Soup checks all the boxes for a comforting, satisfying dinner:
- Hearty and filling – Packed with protein, vegetables, and dumplings.
- Kid-friendly – Soft dumplings and flavorful broth make it easy for picky eaters.
- Versatile – Customize vegetables, herbs, or even add noodles for variation.
- Time-efficient – Using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can save time.
- Ideal for cold evenings – Warm, soothing, and reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and family appeal, this Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a must-try. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Treat your family to this classic dish and enjoy a bowl of warmth and nostalgia.
Don’t hesitate – gather your ingredients, simmer the broth, drop those fluffy dumplings, and serve a dinner that everyone will remember!
