Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

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Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something heartwarming and wholesome. This dish, vibrant with the freshness of vegetables and tender chicken, is about more than just flavor; it’s about nostalgia and comfort. Picture yourself gathering around the table with family, each spoonful filled with fluffy dumplings soaking up the savory broth. It’s a dish worth making not only for its ease but also for the smiles it brings to loved ones’ faces, making it an instant favorite in any household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup is an absolute delight, providing numerous benefits that make it a staple for any home cook. With easy prep and minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights. The family-friendly nature of this recipe ensures that even picky eaters will happily indulge in this bowl of goodness. Whether you prefer a quick meal or enjoy taking your time with traditional recipes, this dish fits the bill effortlessly. Plus, it’s an economical choice that satisfies both the taste buds and your wallet!

Ingredients for Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter: For a rich, flavorful base.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a deliciously sweet and aromatic flavor.
• 3 carrots, sliced: Provides natural sweetness and color.
• 3 celery stalks, sliced: Brings a crisp texture and earthy flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: For an aromatic punch.
• 8 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, rich in flavor.
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Adds protein and heartiness.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Infuses a pleasant herbal note.
• 1 tsp dried parsley: Offers a touch of freshness.
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: For a mild kick.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Adjust to taste for seasoning.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for fluffy dumplings.
• 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp salt: For seasoning the dumplings.
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley: A sprinkle for flavor.
• 3/4 cup milk: To moisten the dumpling mixture.
• 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter: Enhances the richness of the dumplings.

Step-by-Step Directions for Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

1. Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.

2. Flavor the Base: Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for about 1 minute until golden. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken alongside the thyme, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Let this simmer for 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

3. Prepare the Dumpling Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and dried parsley. Gradually stir in the milk and melted butter to create a sticky dough that will form the dumplings.

4. Dumplings in the Soup: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Once all your dumplings are in, cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes. The dumplings will rise and cook through, becoming fluffy and tender.

5. Serve & Garnish: Serve the soup hot, making sure to garnish with fresh parsley for that pop of color and added freshness.

Tips & Tricks

To enhance your Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup, consider these chef’s secrets: adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors significantly. You can also throw in some frozen peas at the end of the cooking time for extra color and nutrition. If you want to add a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes can elevate the experience. Lastly, mixing in a handful of baby spinach just before serving can add both color and health benefits without altering the taste dramatically.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This delicious soup stands on its own, but a few side dishes can elevate your meal. Serve it with a crusty piece of artisan bread for dipping, or pair it with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Consider offering a charcuterie board with cheeses and fruits for a delightful contrast. If you want to stay cozy, a warm apple crisp or some cookies can round off the meal beautifully.

Nutritional Information

This Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup is not only delightful but also quite nutritious. A generous serving can provide approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amounts of chicken and cream used, while being rich in protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Keep in mind that the dumplings are a wholesome treat, adding carbs to the mix, which can be a perfect indulgence after a long day.

Storing Tips & Variations for Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

This soup stores quite well; you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much. For those looking for healthier swaps, consider using whole wheat flour for the dumplings or substituting low-sodium broth. If you want to add more variety, feel free to experiment with vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes for a twist on the classic.

Conclusion for Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

You won’t regret trying out this Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup! It’s an easy, delicious meal that embodies warmth and homeliness. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this soup is bound to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. So don your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to experience the joy of creating something truly special!

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time, and it adds a delicious flavor to the soup.

2. How can I make the dumplings fluffier?
Make sure to avoid over-mixing the dumpling dough. A gentle hand will keep them light and fluffy as they cook.

3. Can I freeze the Chicken and Dumpling Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to freeze it without the dumplings as they can become mushy. Freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to three months.

4. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or homemade stock to suit dietary preferences or for a vegetarian version.

5. Is this recipe adaptable for dietary preferences like gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Make this Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup a staple in your kitchen, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your loved ones!

Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Soup

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A warm embrace in a bowl, this chicken and dumpling soup is perfect for chilly evenings with its blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Poultry

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until golden. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken alongside thyme, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and dried parsley. Gradually stir in the milk and melted butter to create a sticky dough.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving and consider adding frozen peas or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

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