CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP

Chicken Dumpling Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, flavorful broth, and light, fluffy dumplings into one warming bowl of goodness. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days, offering a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. The dumplings, cooked right in the soup, soak up all the rich flavors of the broth, while the tender chicken and vegetables add texture and depth. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just in need of some comfort, Chicken Dumpling Soup is a timeless dish that brings a bit of homemade love to the table.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas

For the Dumplings:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the broth and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer, then stir in the cooked, shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley (if using). Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
4. Add the peas and make the dumplings: Stir the frozen peas into the simmering soup. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the soup, spacing them evenly. The dumplings will puff up as they cook.
5. Cook the dumplings: Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and tender. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook evenly.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the Chicken Dumpling Soup into bowls. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top if desired.

Chicken Dumpling Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time you need a warm, satisfying meal. With its tender dumplings and flavorful broth, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.