If you’re craving a soulful dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s comfort food at its finest, combining tender chunks of chicken, luscious creamy broth, and fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings that soak up all those delightful flavors. Every spoonful is like a little celebration of hearty goodness, making it one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this soup brings a cozy charm that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe calls for just a handful of simple, trusty ingredients that each play a starring role in building its depth and richness. From fresh vegetables adding texture and sweetness to spices that warm the palette, every element is essential for that perfect bowl of comfort.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, velvety base that helps soften and flavor the vegetables.
- 1/2 large onion, chopped: Provides natural sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 3 stalks celery, chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and a savory dimension to the broth.
- 2 large carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds: Adds a pop of color and gentle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Infuses the soup with warm, fragrant undertones.
- 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley: Offers a mild herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Enhances the chicken flavor with a blend of classic herbs and spices.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the broth to a luscious, creamy consistency.
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth or stock: The heart of the soup, providing savory richness that carries all the flavors.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle earthy, slightly floral notes as it simmers.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors throughout.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small cubes: The hearty protein that makes this soup satisfying and filling.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Delivers bursts of color, sweetness, and texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings): The main structure for the fluffy dumplings.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the dumplings their light, airy rise.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Balances the dumplings with a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dumplings): Enhances all the dumpling flavors without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for dumplings): Adds richness and tenderness to the dumplings.
- 1/2 cup milk (2% or whole, for dumplings): Moistens the dumpling dough to just the right consistency.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Let them cook gently until they become tender and aromatic, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step creates a flavorful foundation that’s soft and vibrant, coaxing out the natural sweetness from the vegetables.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the minced garlic, dried parsley, and poultry seasoning. Let this mixture cook for just a minute so all those fragrant, herbaceous notes bloom perfectly. This little layer of spice will add a subtle complexity to the soup that you’ll adore.
Step 3: Thicken the Broth
Sprinkle in 1 1/2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about a minute. This helps avoid clumps and lets the flour gently toast, enhancing the soup’s richness. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and toss in the bay leaf. Bring everything up to a simmer and let it cook for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the broth to develop a creamy texture worth savoring.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Peas
Carefully remove the bay leaf, then season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir in the tender cooked chicken cubes and frozen peas. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes so the ingredients meld together and the peas regain their fresh pop of color and sweetness.
Step 5: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
In a separate bowl, combine the dumpling dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture looks crumbly and sandy. Stir in the milk gently until the dough just comes together — it should feel soft but hold its shape. This simple dough will transform into those irresistible puffs floating atop your soup.
Step 6: Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough carefully into the simmering soup. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. Resist the temptation to lift the lid early because those dumplings need the steam to puff up perfectly fluffy and tender. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the dumplings are puffed and the soup is piping hot, ladle it into bowls and get ready to warm your soul with every bite. This Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe is truly a culinary hug delivered from your kitchen to the dinner table.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few snips of chives adds a lovely pop of green and fresh herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy richness of the soup. For an extra touch, a light dusting of freshly ground black pepper can elevate each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with simple crusty bread for dipping or a crisp green salad to add a refreshing crunch. If you want to keep it cozy, buttery garlic toast is always a winning companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or just to surprise your guests, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, charming presentation. Alternatively, offering individual ramekins with a sprinkle of grated cheese melted on top can make this dish feel extra indulgent and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the dumplings might absorb some broth over time, so you may want to gently reheat while stirring in a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture.
Freezing
Because of the delicate texture of the dumplings, freezing the soup is best done before adding them. Freeze the broth and chicken mixture separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and prepare fresh dumplings to cook right before serving. This little trick preserves the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup feels too thick after chilling, add a bit more chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Dumplings may lose some fluffiness upon reheating but will still taste delightfully comforting.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and keeps this recipe quick and easy. Just chop it into bite-sized cubes and stir it in as directed.
What can I substitute for poultry seasoning?
If you don’t have poultry seasoning on hand, try a blend of dried sage, thyme, and rosemary. These herbs mimic the seasoning’s earthy, savory profile and keep your soup deliciously aromatic.
Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend in equal measure for both the soup thickener and the dumplings. Just be sure your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the chicken. You might also add extra beans or hearty vegetables for substance, plus keep the dumplings intact as they still bring lovely texture and flavor.
How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?
After covering the pot, let the dumplings steam undisturbed for the full 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re puffed up, firm but tender to the touch, and no longer doughy inside.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe is a total game-changer when you want something that feels homemade, heartwarming, and utterly satisfying. Once you’ve whipped up a batch, you’ll see why it’s a treasured classic that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Don’t wait for a chilly day—grab your ingredients and dive into this cozy delight anytime your soul needs a little comfort food love.
Print
Creamy Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This classic Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any day. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy homemade dumplings simmered in a flavorful chicken broth, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 large carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth or stock
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup frozen peas
Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk (2% or whole)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a Dutch oven or stockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Reduce heat to low. Stir in minced garlic, dried parsley, and poultry seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Base: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 25 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add Chicken and Peas: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the cooked chicken cubes and frozen peas. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Prepare Dumpling Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the dumpling flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk just until combined into a soft batter.
- Cook Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the dumplings to steam and cook thoroughly.
- Serve: Once the dumplings are cooked and fluffy, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic chicken and dumpling soup!
Notes
- For best results, use cooked chicken from a rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken.
- If you prefer, fresh peas can be used instead of frozen peas.
- Do not lift the lid while dumplings are cooking to ensure they steam properly and become fluffy.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour and baking powder with gluten-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
