Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

When the chill of winter settles in, nothing beats the warmth and comfort of a hearty bowl of chicken and dumplings soup. This classic dish, known for its tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and creamy broth, offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any cozy occasion. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a cold evening or just want to treat yourself to a bowl of homemade goodness, this cozy chicken and dumplings soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

This cozy chicken and dumplings soup recipe is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, savory broth is infused with chicken, vegetables, and seasonings, while the soft, pillowy dumplings float gently on top, soaking in all the flavors. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a heartwarming blend of tender chicken, vegetables, and perfectly seasoned dumplings, making this a true crowd-pleaser.

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Warm & Hearty: Perfect for chilly nights when you crave something hearty and filling.
• Simple & Delicious: Easy-to-find ingredients make this recipe simple to prepare, but the result is anything but basic.
• Versatile: This recipe is great for feeding a family, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal for the whole family.

Ingredients for Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

For the Soup:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

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Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
• Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Step 2: Make the Dumplings

• In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until just combined. The dough will be thick.
• If desired, fold in the fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Seasonings

• Stir the shredded cooked chicken into the simmering soup.
• Add the thyme, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Drop the Dumplings Into the Soup

• Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Make sure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
• Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Once the dumplings are cooked, give the soup a gentle stir. Serve hot and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting, cozy chicken and dumplings soup!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken & Dumplings Soup

• Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version. Just shred it and add it to the pot after the broth has simmered.
• Dumpling Texture: For fluffier dumplings, be sure not to overmix the dough. Stir until just combined to keep them light and airy.
• Make It Creamier: For a richer, creamier soup, feel free to replace the milk with heavy cream or add a splash of cream to taste.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, potatoes, or corn for a more substantial soup.

Conclusion

This cozy chicken and dumplings soup recipe is the perfect way to warm up on a cold day. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, creamy broth, it’s a meal that brings comfort to your soul. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to please. Try it today and experience the ultimate comfort food in a bowl!

Serving Tips for Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

1. Serve with Warm Bread: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth and sopping up the last bits of soup.
2. Add a Side Salad: For a well-rounded meal, serve this chicken and dumplings soup with a light green salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor and presentation by garnishing the soup with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese also adds a savory touch.
4. Top with Extra Dumplings: For a dumpling-lover’s dream, serve extra dumplings on top of the soup. This makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup is great for making ahead. Serve it in individual bowls or large mugs for easy, portable meals.

Storage Tips for Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

1. Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dumplings are not overcooked, as they may break down and become soggy after a few days.
2. Freezing: While the soup freezes well, the dumplings may not retain their original texture after thawing. If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to store the soup and dumplings separately. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup and prepare fresh dumplings.
3. Reheating: When reheating the soup, gently heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring it back to the desired consistency. If freezing, reheat and then add the dumplings for the best texture.
4. Avoid Overcooking Dumplings: If you plan to have leftovers, it’s a good idea to undercook the dumplings slightly while making the soup. The dumplings will absorb some of the soup as they sit, so leaving them a little firmer will help them retain their shape and texture when reheated.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this cozy chicken and dumplings soup for days to come, making it a perfect meal to prepare in advance or savor the next day!

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup after the broth has simmered. It adds extra flavor and makes the soup preparation much quicker.

2. Can I freeze Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup?
While the soup can be frozen, the dumplings may not retain their original texture once thawed. For the best results, freeze the soup and dumplings separately. The soup can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply make fresh dumplings and add them to the soup.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour in the dumplings with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the chicken broth you use is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be mindful that the dumplings may absorb some of the broth as they sit, so you may need to add a little extra liquid when reheating the soup. For best results, store the soup and dumplings separately if making it several days in advance.

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