There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of one pot chicken dumpling soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? I can still remember those blustery evenings when my family would gather around the dining table, the comforting aroma of chicken and herbs wafting through the house. It was like a warm hug in a bowl! This recipe is a cherished family tradition, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll have everything cooking in just one pot—yes, one! That means less mess and more time to enjoy the cozy vibes. The way the fluffy dumplings float on the rich chicken broth is pure bliss, and it all comes together in less than an hour. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close for all those cold days ahead!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your cozy bowl of one pot chicken dumpling soup. Each item plays a vital role in building that comforting flavor, so let’s get into it!
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender chicken breast adds protein and heartiness to the soup. You can also use thighs for a richer flavor!
- 1 cup carrots, sliced: Sweet, colorful, and full of nutrients—these add a lovely crunch and sweetness.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Celery brings that aromatic base and a slight crunch; it’s essential for that classic soup flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: A must-have for depth of flavor; onions caramelize wonderfully and make the soup fragrant.
- 4 cups chicken broth: This is the backbone of your soup! Use low sodium to control salt levels, or homemade if you have it on hand.
- 2 cups water: Helps to balance the broth and create a nice, light consistency.
- 1 cup flour: This is for your dumplings! It’s what gives them that fluffy, comforting texture.
- 1 tsp baking powder: The magic ingredient that makes your dumplings rise and become light and airy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors! Adjust to your taste, especially if your broth is salty.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dumpling dough.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted: Rich buttery flavor helps to make the dumplings extra delightful.
- 1 tsp thyme: An earthy herb that complements the chicken beautifully; fresh or dried works well!
- 1 tsp parsley: A pop of freshness and color to finish off the soup; fresh is ideal, but dried can work too.
How to Prepare One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the magic of making this cozy soup! Don’t worry—it’s super straightforward, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can enjoy that warm bowl of goodness in no time!
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
First things first, grab a large pot and toss in your diced chicken breast, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion. Then, pour in those 4 cups of chicken broth along with the 2 cups of water. Give everything a good stir, and then bring it all to a boil. You’ll want to hear that satisfying bubbling sound! It’s the beginning of all that deliciousness.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The flavors meld together, and the chicken becomes incredibly tender. Don’t skip this step—it’s crucial for building that comforting taste we all love!
Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Mixture
While your soup is simmering, let’s whip up the dumpling mixture! In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then, pour in your milk and melted butter. Give it a good stir until everything is fully combined. You want a thick but spoonable batter—this will be the fluffy dumplings that float on top of your soup!
Step 4: Add Dumplings to Soup
Now for the fun part! Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of your dumpling mixture directly into the simmering soup. Space them out a bit—this helps them cook evenly. Don’t worry if they look a little rustic; that’s part of their charm!
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for an additional 15 minutes. This step is key for ensuring they’re fluffy and cooked through. Just peek in occasionally; you’ll know they’re done when they’ve puffed up and are no longer doughy. Trust your instincts!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, it’s time to season your masterpiece! Stir in the thyme and parsley for that fresh, aromatic touch. Give it a taste and adjust any seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper? Then, ladle that steaming soup into bowls, and serve it hot! I can’t wait for you to experience that first bite—pure comfort in a bowl!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of one pot chicken dumpling soup. This comforting dish not only warms your soul but also provides a balanced meal!
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portions. It’s always a good idea to adjust based on your dietary needs and preferences!
Tips for Success
To make sure your one pot chicken dumpling soup turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years!
- Adjusting Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! If you find that the soup needs a little more depth, a sprinkle of salt or a dash of pepper can make a big difference. Fresh herbs like extra parsley or thyme can also brighten up the flavors.
- Achieving Desired Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a bit more flour to the dumpling mixture or let the soup simmer a bit longer before adding the dumplings. Just keep in mind that the dumplings will absorb some broth, so a little extra liquid can help maintain that comforting soup consistency.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to get creative! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that works beautifully in place of raw chicken. You can also swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand—peas, corn, or even spinach can add different textures and flavors. And if you want to make it gluten-free, just use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings!
- Making Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days. Just remember to add the dumplings fresh when you reheat it to keep them fluffy!
- Freezing: If you want to freeze it, I recommend freezing the soup base without the dumplings. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw and add in the dumplings fresh. This way, they stay light and fluffy!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to whip up the perfect bowl of one pot chicken dumpling soup! Enjoy every cozy spoonful!
Variations of One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your one pot chicken dumpling soup! Here are some of my favorite variations that you can try:
- Vegetable Medley: Instead of just carrots and celery, why not throw in some peas, corn, or green beans? They add great color and texture, plus extra nutrients!
- Herb Infusion: Swap out thyme and parsley for other herbs like rosemary or dill. Each herb brings a unique flavor, and I love how rosemary adds a lovely earthy note to the soup!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. It’ll give your soup a nice warming sensation that’s perfect for chilly nights!
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even shredded beef. Each protein brings its own personality to the dish!
- Cheesy Dumplings: For a creamy twist, add some shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the dumpling mixture. It melts beautifully and adds a delightful richness!
- Mushroom Lovers: Add some sliced mushrooms to the pot for a hearty, earthy flavor. They pair wonderfully with the chicken and make the soup even more satisfying!
- Asian Twist: Swap the chicken broth for a low-sodium vegetable broth and add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil. You can even throw in some bok choy or water chestnuts for a different spin!
Experimenting with these variations is part of the fun! Just remember to adjust seasoning accordingly, and have fun creating your own signature version of this cozy soup. You’ll find that each twist makes it feel like a whole new dish every time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious one pot chicken dumpling soup left over? Lucky you! Storing it properly will help retain all that comforting flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the dumplings from getting soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Just make sure to label it if you’re like me and forget what’s in the back of the fridge!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the soup without the dumplings. This way, the dumplings will stay fluffy when you reheat. Just pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Now, let’s talk reheating—because we all want that first bowl of soup to taste just as good as when it was fresh!
- Reheating on the Stove: Pour your soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Just keep an eye on those dumplings—you want them to stay fluffy!
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a rush, you can reheat your soup in the microwave too! Just transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals. Stir in between until it’s heated through. Again, add a little broth or water if it’s too thick.
By following these tips, you’ll keep that one pot chicken dumpling soup tasting like a warm hug, even on day two or three! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen chicken works great in one pot chicken dumpling soup. Just throw it in the pot straight from the freezer, and let it cook a bit longer to ensure it’s fully cooked through. Just be sure to check that it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
How do I make the dumplings lighter and fluffier?
To achieve that perfect fluffy texture, be careful not to overmix the dumpling batter. Mix just until everything is combined, and let the dumplings steam on top of the soup without lifting the lid too often while they cook. This helps them stay tender and airy!
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, one pot chicken dumpling soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to reheat, so they stay nice and fluffy!
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you’re looking for a substitute, vegetable broth works perfectly! You can also use homemade broth if you have it, or even water with a splash of soy sauce for an extra flavor boost. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any of your favorite vegetables. Peas, corn, or even spinach add great flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time a bit so everything is cooked to your liking. The more colorful, the better!
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection!
To learn more about the health benefits of chicken soup, visit Healthline.
For tips on making perfect dumplings, check out Serious Eats.
Print
One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting one pot chicken dumpling soup perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk and melted butter to the flour mixture. Stir until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering soup.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until dumplings are cooked through.
- Season with thyme and parsley. Stir and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For a thicker soup, add more flour to the dumpling mixture.
- Can substitute chicken breast with thighs for more flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot chicken dumpling soup
