Perfect Chicken Dumpling Soup With The Best Cooking Guide

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.

So, this helps make chicken dumpling soup super filling and healthy! 

This broth is a warm, comforting dish to serve during the chilly fall or winter. It’s packed with nutrients and vitamins, so it’s a popular choice of soup whenever you feel sick.

This, again, is why so many people view chicken dumpling soup as an ultimate cozy dish! 

Chicken dumpling soup can be served as a filling lunch or a larger supper. You can enjoy a bowl of this soup alone or alongside various side dishes (more on later), so it’s versatile. 

If you want to try serving this delicious comfort soup, then all you need to do is follow the recipe below! Check it out now! 

History Of Chicken Dumpling Soup 

Chicken Dumpling Soup boasts a rich global tapestry of origins. From the hearty stews of Europe to the comforting broths of Asia, communities have crafted variations of this dish for centuries. Historically, it served as an economical way to stretch limited ingredients, feeding many with few resources.

Dumplings, made from simple dough, added substance and heartiness. As families and cultures intertwined, this beloved soup evolved, blending techniques and flavors. Today, it stands as a testament to culinary adaptability and shared traditions.

Interesting Facts About The Chicken Dumpling Soup 

• Global Reach: Different continents have unique versions, from Europe’s hearty bowls to Asia’s light broths.
• Dumpling Diversity: Dumplings can be made using flour, bread, or even rice.
• Resourceful Origins: Historically, soup was a method to maximize limited ingredients during lean times.
• Cultural Variations: Some cultures add spices like turmeric or ginger, giving their soups a distinctive twist.
• Dumpling Shapes: Dumplings vary in shape—some are round, while others resemble half-moons or even rectangles.
• Healing Properties: Many consider the soup a remedy for colds or flu, believing in its restorative powers.
• Quick or Slow: While traditional recipes involve hours of simmering, many modern versions offer a quick, 30-minute preparation.
• Vegetable Varieties: Though chicken is a staple, the vegetables can vary widely, from carrots and peas to mushrooms and spinach.

What Makes The Chicken Dumpling Soup Special? 

• Universal Comfort: It’s a global comfort food that resonates with diverse palates and cultures.
• Texture Play: The combination of tender chicken, soft dumplings, and aromatic broth offers a delightful mouthfeel.
• Adaptable Recipe: It’s versatile, allowing for myriad ingredient substitutions and variations.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, it’s delicious and wholesome.
• Healing Qualities: Many swear by its power to rejuvenate the sick and uplift spirits.
• Time-Tested Tradition: Its long history adds a touch of nostalgia to every bowl.
• Gastronomic Tale: Each variant tells a story of its region’s culture, resources, and culinary evolution.
• Shared Experience: Often made in large pots, it’s perfect for family gatherings and communal meals.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Base Soup
Chicken	2 breasts, or 4 thighs, boneless & skinless
Chicken Stock/Broth	6 cups
Leeks	2, thinly sliced
Carrots	3, medium-sized, sliced
Celery	3 stalks, diced
Parsnip	1, medium-sized, diced
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Butter (for sautéing)	2 tablespoons
Seasoning	To taste
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
White pepper	½ teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary)	A few sprigs (optional)
Dumplings
Self-Rising Flour	1½ cups
Whole Milk	¾ cup
Butter (for dumplings)	4 tablespoons, melted
Parsley	2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Flour (for dusting)	As needed

Key Ingredients For Chicken Dumpling Soup

Here, we will list all the ingredients you need for a traditional chicken dumpling soup. Check them out below, and ensure you have all the ingredients you need before cooking! 

Dumpling Ingredients

• Self-Rising Flour: This recipe will require you to make your dumplings. You can purchase them pre-made, but if you want to make your own, you will need 1 ¾ cup of self-rising flour. 
• Whole Milk: Whole milk is a key ingredient needed to make dumplings. This recipe requires ¾ cup and 2 tablespoons of whole milk. 
• Butter – 2 ½ tablespoons of melted butter are required to make your dumplings soft and tasty. 
• Parsley: The dumplings in this version of chicken dumpling soup are packed with herbs for additional flavor. Here, we will be using 1 tablespoon of parsley. Ensure the parsley is finely chopped before measuring it out, and the tablespoon is heaping! 

Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Chicken: Of course, if you want to make chicken dumpling soup, you will need chicken. This recipe uses 6 chicken thighs (with the skin left on and the bone still in), but this can be easily swapped out for some chicken breasts or scraps of leftover chicken from previous meals.  
• Chicken Stock or Chicken Broth: This ingredient is vital for liquidating chicken dumpling soup. You will need at least 8 cups of either chicken stock or broth. 
• Flour: Flour is added to the soup to help thicken it. This recipe requires 3 tablespoons of flour. 
• Leeks: Leeks are a great vegetable to serve alongside chicken, so it’s no surprise to see them in this recipe. You will only need 2 small leeks for this recipe, and only use the white parts. Clean and quarter them in preparation, then finely chop them up. 
• Carrots: Another classic vegetable often used in soups is carrots. For this recipe, you must gather 3 small carrots, peel, and slice them up in preparation.  
• Celery: Celery works excellently in chicken soup recipes. Take 2 celery ribs for this recipe and dice them into tiny cubes. 
• Parsnip: This root vegetable works well in lots of different soups. You will only need 1 small parsnip for this soup, but remember to peel and dice it up ready. 
• Garlic: Garlic is a classic ingredient that enhances the flavor of many meals – including chicken dumpling soup. Here, you will need 3 cloves of garlic. Press them through a garlic press beforehand. 
• Butter: Butter softens the chicken before it is added to the soup. You will need 1 tablespoon of butter for this recipe. 
• Seasoning: There are a lot of different seasonings you will need for this recipe. Some are used to season the chicken, others the soup itself.

Ingredient Tips 

• Chicken Choice: Thighs offer richer flavor, but breasts work for leaner soup.
• Stock Secret: Homemade stock elevates flavor, but store-bought is a good time-saver.
• Dumpling Dough: Don’t overwork the dough; it keeps dumplings light and fluffy.
• Freshness First: Use fresh vegetables for a crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
• Butter Basics: Unsalted butter controls the soup’s salt content better.
• Herb Hints: Fresh herbs boost aroma, but dried ones pack a potent punch.
• Seasoning Suggestions: Always season in stages; taste as you go for best results.
• Leek Lessons: Clean leeks thoroughly; they often trap dirt between layers.
• Milk Matters: Full-fat milk enriches dumpling texture, but low-fat works too.
• Flour Facts: If out of self-rising flour, add baking powder and salt to regular flour.

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.

Recipe Directions

• Preparation: Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
• In a pot, melt butter on medium-high. Sear chicken until golden brown, around 3-6 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté vegetables in the pot. Add seasonings, garlic, and flour. Stir.
• Pour in chicken stock. Whisk. Return chicken to pot and simmer for 20 minutes.
• Remove chicken, de-skin, de-bone, and shred. Return to pot.
• Mix dumpling ingredients. Bring soup to a simmer. Drop dumpling batter into soup.
• Simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in herbs and serve.

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.

Scaling The Recipe

• Mathematics: The most straightforward method is multiplying or dividing each ingredient by your desired factor. For instance, doubling for 8 servings or halving for 2.
• Cooking Time: As quantity increases, cooking time may slightly extend, especially for simmering and achieving consistency. Monitor closely.
• Pot Size: Ensure you have the appropriate pot size. Overcrowding affects cooking efficiency.
• Spices and Seasonings: When scaling up, be cautious. It’s not always a direct multiplier. Taste as you go.
• Dumplings: Maintain the size consistency, even if making more or fewer. This ensures even cooking.
• Scaling Down: If reducing, consider freezing any extra ingredients for future use or another dish.
• Storage: When scaling up, have sufficient storage containers or space if expecting leftovers.

What Is Used For Garnishing? 

• Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, dill, basil, or chives add color and flavor.
• Citrus: Lemon or lime zest or wedges introduce brightness and contrast.
• Seeds & Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or crushed nuts provide crunch and an earthy taste.
• Dairy: A dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or crumbled feta can elevate the dish’s creaminess.
• Oils: Drizzles of olive, truffle, or chili oil for richness and depth.
• Spices: A sprinkle of paprika, black pepper, or red chili flakes for a touch of heat.
• Crunchy Elements: Croutons, toasted breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions for texture contrast.

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.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup? 

Meat/Fish

• Turkey: A leaner option with a mild taste.
• Pork: Offers a richer flavor.
• Fish: Cod or salmon could make for a light, flaky variation.
• Shrimp: Adds a seafood twist.

Pasta

• Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta shapes like orzo can replace dumplings.
• Gnocchi: Soft potato dumplings that blend well with the soup’s texture.

Vegetables

• Greens: Spinach or kale can be added for a nutritional boost.
• Root Veggies: Turnips or sweet potatoes for varied tastes and textures.
• Mushrooms: They offer an earthy flavor and meaty texture.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Soup

Tips and Tricks for Chicken Dumpling Soup:

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Have all ingredients chopped, measured, and ready before starting. It streamlines the process.
• Chicken Quality: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs. They’re flavorful and stay moist during cooking.
• Cold Stock: Using cold stock or broth helps incorporate the flour better, reducing lumps.

Cooking Time Tips

• Searing: Don’t rush browning the chicken; it builds flavor.
• Dumplings: Drop batter when the soup is simmering, not boiling, to prevent dumplings from falling apart.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
• Resting: The soup sits for a few minutes after cooking; flavors meld and improve.

Nutritional Values  

Chicken Dumpling Soup not only delights the palate but also offers a myriad of nutrients. This soup is a balanced meal, nourishing both body and soul, packed with lean proteins from chicken, essential vitamins from vegetables, and wholesome carbs from dumplings.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup? 

Determining the exact caloric content of the Chicken Dumpling Soup requires a precise breakdown of every ingredient’s amount and its corresponding caloric value. Factors such as the type and cut of chicken, butter amount, type of stock, and size and number of dumplings play a role.

However, as a general estimate, a serving of Chicken Dumpling Soup can range between 200-400 calories, with variables including dumpling density, added fats, and serving size.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Chicken Dumpling Soup

• Meat Content: Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to chicken.
• Gluten: Dumplings and flour used as a thickening agent contain gluten, making it unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Dairy: If butter or milk is used in the dumplings, it’s unsuitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or those with dairy allergies.
• Low-Carb/Keto: The flour in dumplings is high in carbs.
• Salt Content: Store-bought broth or added salt can make it unsuitable for sodium-restricted diets.
• Allergies: Check ingredients for potential allergens, especially if packaging broth has additives.
• FODMAPs: Ingredients like garlic and leeks can be problematic for those on low FODMAP diets.

Health Benefits Of The Chicken Dumpling Soup

• Immune Boost: Chicken broth contains minerals and vitamins that can enhance immune function.
• Hydration: The liquid content aids hydration, especially when feeling under the weather.
• Protein Source: Chicken provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• Digestive Comfort: The warm broth can soothe the digestive tract.
• Bone Health: Homemade broth, especially if made from bones, offers collagen and calcium.
• Wholesome Veggies: Carrots, celery, and leeks add vitamins and fiber, promoting overall health.
• Comforting Effects: Warm soups can be mentally soothing and act as comfort food during colder months or illnesses.
• Low in Fat: It’s a heart-healthy option made with lean chicken parts and minimal butter.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Chicken Dumpling Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Homemade Broth: Prepare chicken broth at home, controlling the salt amount.
• Low-Sodium Store-Bought Broth: If purchasing, select a low-sodium variant.
• Limit Added Salt: Be cautious when seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables instead of canned, as canned often contains added salt.
• Herbs & Spices: Amplify flavor with herbs like parsley, rosemary, and thyme or spices like pepper and turmeric, reducing the need for salt.
• Lemon or Vinegar: A splash can enhance flavor without adding sodium.
• Rinse Canned Goods: If using canned ingredients, rinse thoroughly to wash off extra salt.

How Can I Make Chicken Dumpling Soup Lower In Sugar? 

• Natural Broth: Ensure your chicken broth, whether homemade or store-bought, contains no added sugars.
• Avoid Sweetened Ingredients: Steer clear of ingredients with added sugars, like some store-bought broths or sauces.
• Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh over canned veggies, which can sometimes be preserved in sugary solutions.
• Check Seasonings: Some seasoning blends or sauces might have hidden sugars.
• Homemade Dumplings: Control ingredients, ensuring no added sugars.
• Limit Naturally Sugary Veggies: While most vegetables in the soup aren’t high in sugar, be mindful of ingredients like carrots.
• Read Labels: Always check nutritional information for sugar content when buying ingredients.

How To Serve The Chicken Dumpling Soup At Its Best?

• 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 To Compliment Chicken Dumpling Soup

Chicken dumpling soup is a filling meal all on its own, but you can still serve plenty of satisfying side dishes alongside it.

The obvious choice is bread. Some warm buttery rolls are perfect for soaking up the thick liquid of this soup and filling up your hungry stomach. They are tasty and satisfying and perfect for serving with soups and broths! 

You can try other similar sides like cornbread or biscuits. These are also great for soaking up the leftover soup liquids so that not a drop of your hard work goes to waste. They are very similar in consistency to bread but are softer and sweeter.

Mashed potatoes are an unusual but effective side dish for chicken dumplings.

You can also try similar carb-filled side dishes like rice or orzo, which are super filling.

These are sometimes even added to chicken dumplings soup to make them especially thick – but we prefer them served as a side dish as we believe that when added to the soup, they can sometimes take away from the texture of the dumplings.

Alternatively, you can serve a hearty salad alongside your chicken dumpling soup to provide a variety of textures, flavors, and nutrients.

Because chicken dumpling soup works great as a cozy pick-me-up whenever you feel sick, adding more vegetables to the meal makes sense.

Some great examples include Brussels sprouts, green beans, asparagus, spinach, and cabbage. 

These vegetables can be steamed, boiled, caramelized, or roasted – whatever cooking method works for you! This means you have a lot of choices open to you when it comes to serving vegetable sides with your chicken dumpling soup. 

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

If you have made too much chicken dumpling soup, don’t worry – it can easily be stored and saved for another day! 

It’s possible to make parts of your chicken dumpling soup in advance. The soup base can be made and stored a day or two before you make the dumplings. When you reheat the soup base, add the dumpling batter as usual!

This method allows the soup to develop a stronger flavor as it will thicken over time. If you prefer a thicker soup, this is an excellent method to try – or add more flour to the broth for a thicker consistency.

If you still have some leftover soup, then you only need to move it to an airtight container once it cools. Then, store it in a refrigerator and eat it within three days.

Because the soup contains cooked meat (the chicken), it must be stored in the refrigerator to last longer. Keeping the soup at room temperature will only cause it to go bad sooner and make it unsafe to eat!

Alternatively, you can freeze your chicken dumpling soup and eat the rest later. Frozen chicken dumpling soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you are ready to eat it again, allow it to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it and serving it!

Can I Make The Soup In Advance? 

• Broth Base: Prepare the chicken and vegetable broth a day or two ahead. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight.
• Dumplings: For the best texture, make dumplings fresh before serving. However, the dough or mix can be prepared a day in advance and stored refrigerated.
• Storage: Refrigerate the soup base in an airtight container.
• Serving Day: Reheat the broth, add the fresh dumplings, and simmer until cooked. This ensures freshness and optimal texture.

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.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch Oven: Ensures even heating and prevents scorching.
• Ladle: Helpful for stirring and serving.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For precisely chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Cutting Board: Preferably two: one for raw chicken and another for vegetables.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing flour into the broth without forming lumps.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the dumpling batter.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures the right ingredient proportions.
• Slotted Spoon: Ideal for removing chicken pieces or dumplings.
• Thermometer: Checks if the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature.
• Fine-Mesh Strainer: Useful if you’re making homemade broth to achieve a clear soup base.

Final Thoughts

Making chicken dumpling soup may sound complicated at first, as there are a lot of ingredients you need to gather and many steps to follow in any recipe. 

However, the result is worth it – a comforting, cozy soup packed with nutrients and tasty ingredients. It’s filling, tasty, and perfect for those chilly days when you don’t feel like yourself. 

We hope that the guide above is just what you were looking for. We have included an easy but detailed recipe for chicken dumpling soup so you can make the tastiest version of this classic dish as quickly as possible. Try it out, and good luck! Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Can I Use Instead Of Dumplings To Make The Soup More Health-Conscious?

You can use whole-grain or gluten-free biscuits as a lighter alternative to traditional dumplings.

My Dumplings Are Too Hard Or Too Soft. What Went Wrong?

Texture issues often come from overmixing, incorrect cooking time, uneven dumpling sizes, or improper broth temperature. For ideal dumplings, mix just enough, aim for uniform size, and keep the broth at a steady simmer.”

Why Are My Dumplings Not The Right Texture?

Texture issues can arise from dough consistency, cooking time, or broth temperature. To improve, avoid overmixing the dough, cook dumplings uniformly, and maintain a simmering broth.”

What’s The Optimal Size For Dumplings In The Soup?

While largely a matter of personal preference, a general guideline is to aim for about a tablespoon in size. This ensures even cooking and a pleasant mouthfeel.

Is There A Specific Type Of Flour That Works Best For Dumplings?

Most traditional recipes advocate for all-purpose flour. However, if using self-rising flour, omit any additional leavening agents to prevent overly puffy dumplings.