# Easy Chicken & Dumplings Soup – A Comfort Food Classic

## Warm, Hearty, and Delicious: Chicken & Dumplings Soup

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of **Chicken & Dumplings Soup** to bring warmth and comfort, especially on a chilly evening. This homemade classic combines tender shredded chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, well-seasoned broth. The combination of soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings with hearty bites of chicken makes every spoonful delightful.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a comforting dish that soothes the soul, this **easy chicken and dumplings soup** is the perfect answer. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this iconic comfort food in under an hour.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– **Classic Comfort Food** – A warm, hearty soup that’s perfect for fall or winter.
– **One-Pot Meal** – Easy to prepare and clean up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
– **Rich & Flavorful** – Slow-simmered chicken broth with fresh herbs and vegetables.
– **Fluffy Homemade Dumplings** – Light and tender dumplings soak up all the delicious flavors.
– **Family Favorite** – Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

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## Quick Recipe Highlights

– **Flavor Profile**: A well-balanced mix of savory, rich chicken broth with fragrant thyme and aromatics.
– **Texture**: The soft dumplings contrast beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp vegetables.
– **Aroma**: Mouth-watering scents of garlic, onion, and thyme fill your kitchen.
– **Visual Appeal**: A warm, golden broth with flecks of fresh parsley and vibrant vegetables.
– **Skill Level Needed**: Beginner-friendly with simple but effective cooking techniques.

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## Ingredients

**For the Soup:**
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup frozen peas

**For the Dumplings:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

**For Garnish:**
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.

### 2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions turn translucent, releasing a fragrant aroma.

### 3. Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add diced carrots, celery, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables soften.

### 4. Add Chicken and Peas
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in frozen peas. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

### 5. Make the Dumpling Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in whole milk and melted butter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the dumplings light and fluffy.

### 6. Cook the Dumplings
Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a lid and let them cook for 12-15 minutes until they are fluffy and fully cooked.

### 7. Serve and Enjoy
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

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## Pro Tips for the Best Chicken & Dumplings Soup

– **Use Fresh Ingredients:** High-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables enhance the soup’s flavor.
– **Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Batter:** Overworked dough leads to dense dumplings instead of light, fluffy ones.
– **Cover While Cooking Dumplings:** Trapping the steam ensures they rise properly.
– **Adjust Seasoning to Taste:** Always taste before serving to make any necessary salt or spice adjustments.
– **Make It Creamy:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a thicker, more indulgent consistency.

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## Variations & Customizations

– **Creamy Chicken & Dumplings:** Add ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer soup.
– **Herb Infused Dumplings:** Mix in fresh chives or parsley for added flavor.
– **Vegetarian Version:** Swap chicken for mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
– **Spicy Twist:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
– **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings.

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## Storage & Reheating Tips

– **Refrigeration:** Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– **Freezing:** Freeze the soup without the dumplings for up to 3 months. Thaw and add fresh dumplings when reheating.
– **Reheating:** Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if needed.

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## Frequently Asked Questions

**Can I use rotisserie chicken?**
Yes! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time.

**How do I know when the dumplings are done?**
Insert a toothpick into a dumpling—it should come out clean.

**Can I make this in a slow cooker?**
Absolutely! Cook on low for 6 hours, then add dumplings and cook for another 30 minutes.

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## Final Thoughts

This **homemade chicken and dumplings soup** is warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor—a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out and let us know how it turns out in the comments!