Chicken Dumpling soup – A Traditional American Soup Recipe

One of the most popular types of soup is chicken dumpling soup. It’s easy to see why – it’s tasty, filling, and hearty.

Knowing what to do and what ingredients to use can be tricky if you have never made your version of chicken dumpling soup before. 

This is where we come in – we have pulled together this in-depth guide to the chicken dumpling soup.

Here, you can learn how to make chicken dumpling soup. It’s quite simple, and who knows – it may be your new favorite soup recipe! So, check out the guide below and enjoy!

What Is Chicken Dumpling Soup?

Chicken dumpling soup is considered one of the coziest, most comforting types of soup in the world. 

It’s a traditional American soup dish, born and bred here in the US, even though dumplings are often associated with Asian dishes from countries like China or Japan.

However, dumplings are common in dishes worldwide, including Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America. They are also found in many American dishes – including chicken dumpling soup. 

Dumplings are cooked dough that sometimes contains a type of filling. Because they are so large, they make up most of the soup’s body–and are why this soup is so hearty and filling.

They bring a soft, delicious texture to the soup and work well alongside the other key ingredient in this soup, chicken. 

Chicken is often used in comfort food because it’s soft, tasty and healthy. Not only is it backed with protein, but it’s lower in calories compared to other meats like beef or pork.

This makes it an excellent food for improving your muscle growth and helping with weight loss. In this recipe, the chicken is seared, which is one of the healthiest cooking techniques used to cook chicken.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto Replace traditional dumplings with almond or coconut flour versions. Use high-fat chicken cuts and add more vegetables low in carbs, like zucchini.
• Paleo Omit dairy. Make dumplings with almond flour and use coconut milk. Ensure the chicken broth is free from additives.
• Gluten-Free Use gluten-free flour like rice or chickpea flour for the dumplings. Ensure your broth is gluten-free.
• Whole30 Avoid dairy and grains. Opt for almond flour dumplings and up the vegetable content.
• Vegetarian Omit chicken and use a hearty vegetable broth. Add more root vegetables or tofu for the substance.
• Vegan Similar to vegetarian, but also replace dairy in dumplings with almond or soy milk and vegan butter.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Asian Fusion: Infuse ginger and lemongrass and replace regular dumplings with wonton wrappers.
• Spicy Kick: Add a hint of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for warmth.
• Creamy Twist: Mix in a heavy cream or coconut milk splash for a richer consistency.

Add-Ons

• Proteins: Introduce ham, bacon bits, or tofu for added substance.
• Greens: Spinach, kale, or chard wilt beautifully into the soup, enhancing nutrition and color.
• Grains: Quinoa or wild rice can be simmered for a heartier dish.

Toppings

• Herb Garnish: Fresh dill, cilantro, or green onions.
• Crunch: Croutons, toasted nuts, or sesame seeds.
• Zesty Finish: A drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon to elevate flavors.

Can I Make Chicken Dumpling Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Sear chicken thighs separately, then transfer to the slow cooker.
• Add vegetables, seasonings, and chicken stock.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• An hour before serving, shred the chicken and return to the pot. Drop in dumpling batter, ensuring they’re submerged, and cook until they’re tender.

Instant Pot

• Use the ‘Sauté’ mode for searing chicken and vegetables.
• Add seasonings and stock.
• Pressure to cook on high for 15 minutes.
• Quick-release pressure. Remove and shred the chicken.
• Turn back to ‘Sauté,’ add dumplings, and cook until they rise and become tender.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: It’s quick and easily accessible, especially when pressed for time.
• Consistency: Brands offer a consistent flavor profile.
• Variety: Available in different flavors like low-sodium, organic, or bone broth.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor Control: Homemade allows you to control the depth and nuances of flavor.
• No Additives: Free from preservatives, colorings, or excessive salt.
• Cost-Effective: You can utilize leftover bones and vegetable scraps, making it economical.

How To Serve

• Temperature: Serve hot but not scalding. The warmth enhances flavor and aroma.
• Bowls: Pre-warm bowls in the oven (on low) or rinsing hot water to maintain the soup temperature.
• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, on top for color and aroma.
• Accompaniments: Pair with crusty bread or a light salad to balance the meal.
• Ladle Carefully: Ensure each serving has a mix of chicken, dumplings, and veggies.
• Serving Size: Don’t overfill bowls. Leave room for broth to shine.
• Pairings: Offer a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Ideal for dipping into the broth, adding a satisfying crunch and absorbing flavors.
• Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or brussels sprouts add a sweet and earthy element.
• Steamed Rice: Absorbs the soup’s flavors, providing a comforting, filling addition.
• Sautéed Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard add color and nutrients.
• Cucumber Salad: Offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
• Applesauce: Serves as a sweet, light side that complements the savory flavors.
• Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well without competing with the soup’s flavors.

 

Storage & Make Ahead

• Storage: Store cooled soup in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir well when reheating to redistribute flavors.
• Freezing: Freeze without dumplings to avoid them becoming soggy. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the broth and chicken up to two days ahead. Store in the refrigerator. Make dumplings fresh on the day of serving to maintain their texture.
• Reheating: Warm the soup gently over medium heat. If dumplings were frozen separately, add them during reheating and cook until they are heated through and tender.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Chicken Pot Pie: Use leftovers as a filling, topping with pie crust or puff pastry.
• Chicken Tacos: Extract chicken pieces, shred them, and use them as a taco filling.
• Rice Medley: Mix the soup with cooked rice for a hearty chicken and rice dish.
• Stew Thickening: Reduce the soup on the stove to make a thicker chicken stew.
• Pasta Sauce: Serve over your favorite pasta for a twist on traditional pasta dishes.
• Casserole: Layer with vegetables and cheese, then bake.
• Sandwich Filler: Shred chicken for sandwiches or wraps.
• Salad Boost: Use chicken pieces and veggies on salads.
• Broth Base: Strain and use the broth as a base for another soup or dish.
• Dumpling Snack: Enjoy dumplings as a snack, perhaps pan-fried for a crispy exterior.

Tips

• Rich Broth: Start with a homemade chicken broth for the most flavor. Simmer with herbs and vegetables for depth.
• Uniform Dumplings: Shape dumplings evenly for consistent cooking. Use a teaspoon for size guidance.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix dumpling batter just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Simmer Gently: Cook dumplings in a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to ensure they cook through without disintegrating.
• Season Correctly: Taste and season the soup after dumplings cook to adjust for flavor dilution.
• Add Veggies Late: Add delicate vegetables towards the end to maintain texture and color.

NUTRITION TABLE