Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

This Chicken & Dumplings Soup combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up and satisfy your soul on a cold day.

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Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – For sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 carrots, diced – Provides natural sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds crunch and flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the savory notes.
• 6 cups chicken broth – The flavorful base of the soup.
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover roasted chicken.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For a warm, herbal note.
• 1 bay leaf – Adds subtle, aromatic flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for tender dumplings.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Adds fluffiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
• 3/4 cup whole milk – For a soft, moist dough.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – Adds richness to the dumplings.

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How to Make Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme and bay leaf.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the shredded chicken.

Step 3: Make the Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Add the Dumplings

1. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) onto the surface of the simmering soup.
2. Cover the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes. Do not lift the lid while the dumplings cook, as steam is essential for their fluffiness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets plenty of dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory: The broth is deeply flavorful, complementing the tender chicken and vegetables.
• Fluffy Dumplings: Perfectly light and pillowy, they soak up the delicious broth.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Customizable: Add peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra veggies, or use turkey instead of chicken.

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken broth make all the difference.
2. Don’t Overcook the Dumplings: They should be light and fluffy, so follow the timing carefully.
3. Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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This Cozy Chicken & Dumplings Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that warms your body and soul. Whether it’s a snowy evening or a simple craving for something hearty, this recipe delivers every time. Enjoy! 🍲✨🐔