Chicken Dumpling Soup

Warm and Cozy Chicken Dumpling Soup

There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of chicken dumpling soup to bring comfort on a chilly evening. The rich, savory broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings create a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something warm and homemade, this soup is like a hug in a bowl.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple and budget-friendly it is. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a delicious and filling meal for the whole family.

The dumplings are soft and pillowy, soaking up the flavorful broth, while the vegetables add a touch of freshness and texture. It’s a dish that feels fancy, but it’s incredibly easy to make.

I love making this soup on busy weeknights because it doesn’t take hours to prepare. It’s also perfect for lazy weekends when you want something cozy without spending too much time in the kitchen.

This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you click on the link at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases, thank you.

Plus, it’s a kid-friendly meal that even picky eaters will enjoy. The combination of chicken, broth, and soft dumplings is comforting and familiar, making it a go-to recipe in my home.

What makes this soup extra special is that you can customize it however you like. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some spinach or mushrooms. Prefer a creamy broth? Stir in a little heavy cream at the end. No matter how you make it, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit!

About Chicken Dumpling Soup

Chicken dumpling soup is a hearty, homemade dish made with a rich, flavorful broth, tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and soft dumplings that cook right in the soup. The dumplings are usually made from a simple dough that fluffs up as it simmers, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Unlike chicken noodle soup, which uses pasta, chicken dumpling soup has soft, doughy dumplings that give it a heartier texture. It’s also different from chicken and dumplings, which are sometimes thicker and creamier. This soup is light yet filling, making it the perfect balance between a rich stew and a comforting broth-based soup.

---

Why You’ll Love It

1. Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing better than a warm, cozy bowl of chicken dumpling soup when you need a little pick-me-up. Whether it’s a cold day, you’re feeling under the weather, or you just need a comforting meal, this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

2. Easy & Budget-Friendly

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this soup—just chicken, flour, broth, and a few veggies. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it an affordable yet filling meal that doesn’t break the bank.

3. Kid-Friendly & Family Approved

Picky eaters? No problem! The mild, savory flavors make this soup a hit with kids and adults alike. The dumplings are fun to eat, and the soft texture makes it an easy meal for everyone to enjoy.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Want to add extra veggies? Prefer a creamy base? You can adjust the ingredients to match your preferences. Swap out the chicken for turkey, add mushrooms for more umami flavor, or mix in a little cream for a richer taste.

5. Great for Meal Prep & Leftovers

This soup stores and reheats well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious!

Ingredients

This chicken dumpling soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful dish. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen!

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth – I prefer using low-sodium broth so I can control the salt. Homemade broth works great too!
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy option!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste – Adjust based on your broth’s saltiness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) – For a creamier, richer soup.

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base of the dumplings.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the dumplings puff up beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 cup milk – Whole milk works best, but you can use whatever you have.
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Optional Add-Ins:

• Fresh parsley – A sprinkle on top makes the soup look and taste even better.
• Mushrooms, peas, or spinach – Great if you want to add more veggies.
• A pinch of nutmeg – Sounds unusual, but it adds a subtle warmth to the broth.

---

Kitchen Tools Needed

You don’t need any fancy equipment to make this soup, just a few kitchen basics!

• Large pot or Dutch oven – The heart of the soup-making process. A Le Creuset Dutch oven is my favorite for even cooking!
• Cutting board & sharp knife – For chopping all those delicious veggies.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Precision is key for fluffy dumplings!
• Mixing bowl – To mix up the dumpling dough.
• Ladle – Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring the soup and preventing sticking.

If you’ll be making this soup often, I highly recommend investing in a good-quality Dutch oven. It keeps the heat even and makes everything taste better!

Cooking Instructions

This chicken dumpling soup comes together easily in just about 45 minutes! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of goodness in no time.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables (5 minutes)

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just until it smells amazing! Be careful not to burn it.

Pro Tip: If you love extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine here and let it cook down for a minute!

Step 2: Simmer the Soup (15 minutes)

4. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend beautifully.

Pro Tip: If you want a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at this stage.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough (5 minutes)

6. While the soup is simmering, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together:
   • 1 cup flour
   • 2 teaspoons baking powder
   • ½ teaspoon salt
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (if using)
7. Pour in ½ cup milk and 1 tablespoon melted butter, then gently stir until combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Don’t overmix! Overmixing makes the dumplings tough instead of fluffy.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings (10 minutes)

8. Using a spoon, drop small spoonfuls of dough (about 1 teaspoon each) into the simmering soup. The dumplings will puff up as they cook!
9. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam for 10 minutes on low heat. No peeking! Keeping the lid on helps them cook through.

Pro Tip: If you like extra fluffy dumplings, add a tiny bit of extra baking powder (¼ teaspoon) to the dough!

Step 5: Final Touches & Serve (5 minutes)

10. Remove the lid and check that the dumplings are cooked—they should be firm yet soft and fluffy in the middle.
11. Stir in fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm!

Pro Tip: Leftovers? This soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to keep the dumplings from breaking apart.

And that’s it! A simple, heartwarming chicken dumpling soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Success

Want to make the best chicken dumpling soup every time? Here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned from experience!

1. Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough

I can’t stress this enough—gently mix the dough just until combined! Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, making the dumplings chewy and dense instead of light and fluffy. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.

2. Keep the Dumplings Small

Bigger isn’t always better! When you drop the dumplings into the soup, keep them around teaspoon-sized because they expand while cooking. If they’re too big, they may take longer to cook and could end up doughy in the middle.

3. No Peeking While the Dumplings Cook!

I know it’s tempting to lift the lid and check, but don’t do it! The dumplings steam in the covered pot, and opening the lid releases the heat, making them denser. Set a timer and let them cook undisturbed for 10 minutes—trust me, it’s worth it!

4. Use Rotisserie Chicken for a Quick Shortcut

If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver! It’s already cooked and packed with flavor, making this soup even faster and easier to whip up. Just shred it up and toss it in!

5. Want More Flavor? Try a Splash of Lemon or Cream

If you like a little freshness, squeeze in a bit of lemon juice before serving. It brightens up the broth and balances the richness. If you’re craving something creamier, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at the end for a velvety finish.

6. Make it Ahead—It Tastes Even Better the Next Day

Like most soups, this one gets even more flavorful as it sits. The broth absorbs all the seasonings, and the dumplings soak up the deliciousness. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently—don’t boil, or the dumplings might fall apart!

7. Customize It to Your Taste!

One of the best things about this soup is how versatile it is! Here are a few fun twists:

• Add mushrooms or peas for extra veggies.
• Swap chicken for turkey (perfect for Thanksgiving leftovers!).
• Use gluten-free flour for the dumplings if needed.
• Throw in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a little kick!

Follow these tips, and you’ll have a flawless bowl of chicken dumpling soup every single time. Enjoy!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about chicken dumpling soup is how easy it is to customize! Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just want to switch things up, here are some great alternatives and variations to try.

Substitutions

• Milk Alternatives for Dumplings: If you’re dairy-free, swap the milk in the dumplings for almond, oat, or coconut milk. The texture stays soft and fluffy!
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings. You can also make a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the soup instead of flour.
• No Chicken? No Problem! Swap out the chicken for turkey, shredded pork, or even plant-based “chicken” substitutes for a vegetarian version.
• Broth Variations: If you’re out of chicken broth, try vegetable or bone broth for a different depth of flavor. If using water, add extra seasonings to keep the soup flavorful.
• Butter Alternatives: Use olive oil or ghee instead of butter for sautéing veggies. Ghee adds a slightly nutty flavor!

Fun Variations

• Spicy Version: Love heat? Add ½ teaspoon red chili flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika to the broth. You can also drizzle in some hot sauce before serving.
• Protein-Packed: Want to make it even heartier? Add extra shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or even diced tofu for a high-protein meal.
• Veggie-Loaded: Stir in peas, mushrooms, kale, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Creamy Comfort Soup: For an extra rich and creamy version, add ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving. This makes it extra cozy!
• Herb-Infused Flavor: Try adding fresh rosemary, sage, or a bay leaf while the soup simmers. Just remember to remove them before serving!

---

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks makes it a complete, satisfying meal. Here are my favorite ways to serve it:

1. Crusty Bread or Biscuits

There’s nothing better than dipping warm bread into a bowl of soup! Try serving it with:

• Homemade biscuits for a classic Southern touch.
• Garlic bread for a flavorful twist.
• Crusty sourdough or baguette to soak up every last drop of broth.

2. Fresh Green Salad

A light and refreshing salad balances out the richness of the soup. Some great options:

• Simple mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette.
• Caesar salad for a creamy contrast.
• Spinach and apple salad with walnuts for a sweet crunch.

3. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

For extra nutrition, pair the soup with roasted veggies like:

• Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze.
• Honey-glazed carrots for a touch of sweetness.
• Steamed asparagus with lemon zest.

4. Cozy Beverage Pairings

The right drink makes this meal even more comforting! Try:

• A warm mug of chamomile or ginger tea—perfect for cozy nights.
• Apple cider for a sweet, autumnal touch.
• A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio if you’re serving this for a special dinner.

5. Ideal Occasions

This soup is perfect for:

• Cold winter nights when you need something warm and hearty.
• Sick days—it’s soothing and packed with nutrients.
• Family dinners since it’s easy to make in big batches.
• Holiday leftovers—use turkey instead of chicken after Thanksgiving!

No matter how you serve it, this chicken dumpling soup is guaranteed to be a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This chicken dumpling soup tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day. With the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy leftovers without losing flavor or texture.

How to Store

• In the Fridge:
  • Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • The dumplings will continue to soak up the broth, so you may need to add a bit more liquid when reheating.
• In the Freezer:
  • This soup can be frozen, but the dumplings don’t hold up as well after thawing—they tend to get a bit mushy. If you plan to freeze, I recommend freezing just the broth and chicken and making fresh dumplings when you reheat.
  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags for up to 3 months.
  • Label the container with the date so you know when to use it!

Pro Tip: If you still want to freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them separately before adding them to the soup. This helps them hold their shape better when thawed.

How to Reheat

• On the Stovetop (Best Method!):
  • Pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently.
  • Add a splash of broth, water, or milk to loosen the texture, since the dumplings absorb liquid.
  • Simmer until heated through, about 5–7 minutes.
• In the Microwave (For Quick Reheating):
  • Transfer a portion of the soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
  • If the dumplings feel too thick, stir in a little milk or broth to revive them.
• In the Oven (For Larger Portions):
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20–25 minutes until heated through.

Personal Tip: I love adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating for extra creaminess. If the soup thickens too much, a little chicken broth brings it back to the perfect consistency!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this cozy soup for days without losing its comforting flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about making the best chicken dumpling soup? Here are some common FAQs to help you out!

1. Why are my dumplings dense instead of light and fluffy?

If your dumplings turned out dense or chewy, the most likely reason is overmixing the dough. Mix just until combined—the dough should be slightly sticky but not overworked. Also, make sure the lid stays on while the dumplings cook so they steam properly!

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The broth and chicken can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, I recommend making the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.

3. How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?

The easiest way to check is by cutting one in half—the inside should look fluffy and cooked through, not doughy. Dumplings usually take about 10 minutes to steam with the lid on.

4. Can I use store-bought biscuit dough for the dumplings?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned biscuit dough works great. Just tear the dough into small pieces and drop them into the soup. They’ll puff up just like homemade dumplings!

5. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

If you want a thicker broth, you can:

• Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup.
• Let the soup simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid.
• Add ½ cup of heavy cream for a creamy texture!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!