Chicken Dumpling Soup: A Hearty & Comforting Homemade Recipe

Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of chicken dumpling soup. This classic comfort dish is the perfect balance of hearty and wholesome, featuring tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, a remedy for the common cold, or simply a nostalgic dish reminiscent of home-cooked family meals, chicken dumpling soup never disappoints.

This dish has been a staple in kitchens across the world for generations. While many associate it with Southern-style cooking, variations of dumpling soups can be found in different cultures, from Chinese wonton soup to Eastern European knedlíky dishes. No matter the version, one thing remains consistent: the heartwarming satisfaction that comes with every spoonful.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about chicken dumpling soup, from the essential ingredients and step-by-step preparation to expert tips for achieving the perfect texture. Whether you’re making it for the first time or looking to refine your technique, this article will ensure your soup turns out rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Dumpling Soup

A great chicken dumpling soup starts with quality ingredients. Whether you’re aiming for a classic homestyle version or a healthier alternative, selecting the right ingredients ensures a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Dumpling Soup

To make the perfect bowl of chicken dumpling soup, you’ll need:

For the Broth:

Chicken – 2 lbs (bone-in for more flavor, or boneless for convenience)

Chicken broth or stock – 6 cups (homemade or store-bought)

Water – 2 cups (optional, for a lighter broth)

Vegetables:

2 large carrots, diced

2 stalks of celery, chopped

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

Seasonings & Herbs:

1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh)

1 tsp poultry seasoning

2 bay leaves

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Butter or Olive Oil – 2 tbsp (for sautéing vegetables)

For the Dumplings:

All-purpose flour – 1 ½ cups

Baking powder – 1 tbsp (for fluffier dumplings)

Salt – ½ tsp

Milk – ¾ cup (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)

Butter – 2 tbsp (melted) or 1 egg (optional, for firmer dumplings)

Selecting the Best Ingredients

Choosing the Right Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts create a richer, more flavorful broth.

Boneless, skinless chicken is great for convenience but may require extra seasoning.

Rotisserie chicken can be a quick alternative for a shortcut version.

Dumpling Flour & Liquid Options

Flour: All-purpose works best, but whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier version.

Liquid: Milk gives dumplings a soft texture, but buttermilk or broth adds extra flavor.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free Option:

Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour (a 1:1 blend with xanthan gum is best).

Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour to thicken the soup.

Dairy-Free Option:

Swap butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine.

Replace milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk.

Low-Sodium Alternative:

Use low-sodium chicken broth.

Reduce added salt and rely on herbs and spices for flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken Dumpling Soup

Now that we have gathered all the essential ingredients, it’s time to prepare the perfect chicken dumpling soup. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and light, fluffy dumplings.

Preparing the Chicken Broth

A delicious broth is the foundation of any great chicken dumpling soup.

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp butter or olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, releasing its fragrance.
2. Add the Chicken and Broth
   • Place the chicken (bone-in or boneless) into the pot.
   • Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth (or a mix of broth and water).
   • Add the bay leaves, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Simmer the Broth
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30–40 minutes.
   • Stir occasionally and skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
4. Shred the Chicken
   • Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and place it on a plate.
   • Let it cool for a few minutes, then use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
   • Discard any bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Making the Dumplings

Dumplings are the star of this dish, and getting them just right makes all the difference.

1. Prepare the Dough
   • In a mixing bowl, combine:
     • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
     • 1 tbsp baking powder
     • ½ tsp salt
   • Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
2. Add the Liquid Ingredients
   • Pour in ¾ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra flavor).
   • Add 2 tbsp melted butter (or an egg for firmer dumplings).
   • Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the dumplings light and fluffy.

Cooking the Dumplings in the Soup

1. Bring the Soup to a Low Boil
   • Turn the heat up slightly so the soup is at a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil).
2. Drop in the Dumplings
   • Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth.
   • The dumplings will expand as they cook, so leave space between them.
3. Cover and Cook
   • Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings steam and cook for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for light, airy dumplings.
4. Check for Doneness
   • Insert a toothpick into a dumpling—if it comes out clean, they are ready!
   • If they need more time, let them cook for another 3–5 minutes.

Final Touches and Serving

1. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
   • Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
   • Taste the broth and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish and Serve
   • Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and freshness.
   • Serve hot in bowls with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Variations of Chicken Dumpling Soup

While the classic chicken dumpling soup is a comforting favorite, there are many ways to customize it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some delicious variations you can try, from Southern-style richness to light and healthy alternatives.

Classic Southern-Style Chicken Dumpling Soup

The Southern version of this soup is known for its rich, buttery broth and soft, drop-style dumplings.

Key Differences in Ingredients:

• Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for the dumplings, making them extra tender.
• Add heavy cream (½ cup) to the broth for a thicker, creamier texture.
• Drop large spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the broth for big, fluffy dumplings.

Extra Tips for Authentic Southern Flavor:

• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for a deeper flavor.
• Stir in a little bacon grease or butter for added richness.
• Cook the dumplings a little longer (around 20 minutes) to ensure they soak up all the flavors.

Asian-Inspired Chicken Dumpling Soup

For a flavorful twist, try an Asian-style chicken dumpling soup with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce.

Key Differences in Ingredients:

• Use ginger and garlic in the broth for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Add soy sauce (2 tbsp) and sesame oil (1 tsp) to deepen the umami taste.
• Use wonton wrappers instead of traditional dumplings. Simply wrap small portions of seasoned ground chicken in the wrappers and boil them in the soup.
• Add bok choy, mushrooms, or green onions for extra nutrition and texture.

How to Serve It:

• Garnish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of chili oil for extra spice.
• Serve with a side of steamed rice or crispy wonton chips.

Healthy & Light Chicken Dumpling Soup

For those looking for a lighter version of this classic dish, there are ways to make it lower in calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.

Key Differences in Ingredients:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner protein source.
• Substitute whole wheat flour for white flour in the dumplings for extra fiber.
• Skip the butter and use olive oil for a heart-healthy fat option.
• Increase the vegetables by adding extra carrots, celery, spinach, or kale.

How to Make It Even Healthier:

• Instead of dumplings, use cauliflower rice or whole-grain noodles.
• Reduce the salt by using low-sodium chicken broth.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to keep the soup creamy but light.

Spicy Chicken Dumpling Soup

If you love a little heat, turn this comforting dish into a spicy version.

Key Differences in Ingredients:

• Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes to the broth.
• Stir in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for extra kick.
• Use spicy sausage (such as andouille) alongside chicken for a bolder taste.

How to Serve It:

• Garnish with sliced green onions and a squeeze of lime for a tangy balance.
• Serve with spicy cornbread or a warm tortilla on the side.

Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup

For those who love set-it-and-forget-it cooking, this soup can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Slow Cooker Method:

1. Add all broth ingredients and chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
3. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
4. Drop in the dumplings and cook for 30 more minutes on high with the lid on.

Instant Pot Method:

1. Use the Sauté mode to cook the vegetables first.
2. Add the chicken, broth, and seasonings, then cook on Manual (Pressure Cook) for 12 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure, shred the chicken, and return it to the pot.
4. Switch to Sauté mode, drop in the dumplings, and cook for 10 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Dumpling Soup

Making chicken dumpling soup is simple, but a few expert tricks can take it from good to restaurant-quality. Here are some essential tips to ensure a rich broth, light dumplings, and perfect texture every time.

Achieving the Perfect Dumpling Texture

Dumplings can sometimes turn out too dense, too mushy, or too dry. Follow these key tips for light, fluffy dumplings:

Don’t overmix the dough – Stir the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing leads to dense, chewy dumplings.

Let the dough rest for 5–10 minutes before dropping it into the soup. This allows the flour to absorb moisture, creating a softer texture.

Drop the dumplings into a gently simmering soup, not boiling broth – A rolling boil can break them apart or make them tough.

Keep the lid on while cooking dumplings – Steam is crucial for fluffy dumplings. Avoid opening the lid during cooking!

Use baking powder – This is essential for dumplings to rise properly. If using self-rising flour, reduce the added baking powder.

For firmer dumplings, add an egg to the dough or use slightly less milk.

How to Thicken or Thin the Soup

The consistency of your soup is a matter of preference. Here’s how to adjust the thickness:

For a thicker broth:

Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, then stir it into the soup and simmer for a few minutes.

Use a flour slurry (1 tbsp flour mixed with ¼ cup broth) to thicken naturally.

Splash of heavy cream or milk for a richer texture.

For a thinner broth:

Extra chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Reduce cooking time after adding dumplings—overcooking can make the broth too thick.

Enhancing the Flavor of Your Chicken Dumpling Soup

Want to elevate the taste of your soup? Try these flavor-enhancing tips:

Use bone-in chicken – Cooking with bones creates a richer, deeper broth.

Sauté your vegetables first – This step caramelizes the onions, carrots, and celery, adding more depth to the soup.

Layer the seasonings – Add thyme, bay leaves, and poultry seasoning at the beginning, but adjust salt and pepper at the end.

A splash of acidity – A little lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking brightens the flavors.

Garnish with fresh herbs – Parsley, thyme, or green onions add a fresh finishing touch.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Chicken dumpling soup makes fantastic leftovers, but proper storage is key to maintaining flavor and texture.

How to Store:

Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing.

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat:

Warm the soup over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring gently.

If the broth thickened too much, add a little extra broth or water.

Avoid microwaving dumplings for too long—they can become rubbery.

Can You Freeze Chicken Dumpling Soup?

Yes, but dumplings don’t freeze well as they may become mushy when thawed.

For best results, freeze the broth and chicken separately and make fresh dumplings when reheating.

Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions: What to Eat with Chicken Dumpling Soup

Chicken dumpling soup is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with side dishes for a complete meal.

Crusty Bread or Biscuits – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
Simple Green Salad – A light, refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Roasted Vegetables – Adds extra nutrition and crunch.
Cornbread – A Southern favorite that pairs beautifully with dumpling soup.

Looking for more comforting meals? Try these delicious options:

• Chicken Casserole Recipes – Another warm and satisfying dish.
• Chicken Taco Soup – A zesty twist on traditional soups.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the ingredients for chicken and dumplings?

Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort dish made with chicken, dumplings, and a flavorful broth. Here are the key ingredients:

For the Broth:

• Chicken (bone-in for more flavor or boneless for convenience)
• Chicken broth or stock
• Vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, garlic)
• Herbs and seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, parsley)
• Butter or olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)

For the Dumplings:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder (for fluffy dumplings)
• Salt
• Milk or buttermilk (for moisture)
• Butter (or an egg for firmer dumplings)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

2. What is a Chinese soup dumpling?

A Chinese soup dumpling (also called Xiao Long Bao) is a delicate steamed dumpling filled with meat and hot broth. It originates from Shanghai, China and is famous for its juicy filling.

Key Features:

• Made with a thin, pleated dough wrapper
• Filled with seasoned pork or chicken, and a solidified broth (gelatinized stock)
• Steamed until the broth inside turns into hot liquid
• Typically eaten by biting carefully and sipping the soup inside

Unlike chicken and dumplings, which have dough cooked in broth, Chinese soup dumplings are a self-contained bite of soup inside a dumpling!

3. Is dumpling soup healthy?

Yes, dumpling soup can be healthy, depending on the ingredients and preparation method.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in protein (from chicken)
• Packed with vegetables (carrots, celery, onions)
• Provides hydration (thanks to the broth)

How to Make It Healthier:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breast instead of thighs
• Choose whole wheat flour for dumplings for extra fiber
• Reduce salt by using low-sodium chicken broth
• Increase vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrients

A light version of dumpling soup can be nutrient-rich and satisfying while keeping it low in fat and calories.

4. How can I thicken my chicken and dumpling broth?

If your chicken and dumpling broth is too thin, you can thicken it using these methods:

Cornstarch Slurry

• Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water
• Stir it into the soup and simmer for a few minutes until thickened

Flour Slurry

• Combine 1 tbsp all-purpose flour with ¼ cup broth
• Whisk until smooth, then add to the soup and let it cook

Cream or Milk

• Add a splash of heavy cream or milk for a creamier consistency

Mash Some Vegetables

• Remove some of the cooked vegetables, mash them, then stir them back into the soup for natural thickening

Each method helps create a rich, velvety texture without overpowering the flavors of the soup.

Conclusion

Whether you’re craving a classic Southern comfort meal or a lighter, healthier version, chicken dumpling soup is a timeless dish that satisfies every time. By following these expert tips, you can create a soup that’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured.

The best part? You can customize it! From thicker broths to spicy versions or gluten-free options, there’s a variation for everyone.

Now that you’ve mastered chicken dumpling soup, grab your ingredients and enjoy making this warm, cozy dish for yourself or your loved ones. Happy cooking! 🍲😊

Chicken Dumpling Soup: A Hearty & Comforting Homemade Recipe

Chicken Dumpling Soup: A Cozy and Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings 6

Equipment

• Essential Equipment:
• ✅ Large Pot or Dutch Oven – A 6-quart or larger pot for simmering the soup and cooking dumplings.
• ✅ Cutting Board – For chopping vegetables and shredding chicken.
• ✅ Sharp Knife – To dice onions, carrots, and celery efficiently.
• ✅ Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurately measuring broth, flour, and seasonings.
• ✅ Mixing Bowls – One for dumpling dough and another for prepped ingredients.
• ✅ Whisk or Fork – For mixing dumpling batter evenly.
• ✅ Wooden Spoon or Ladle – For stirring the soup without damaging the pot.
• ✅ Tongs or Slotted Spoon – To remove cooked chicken for shredding.
• ✅ Two Forks or Shredding Claws – For pulling apart the cooked chicken.
• ✅ Soup Ladle – For serving the finished soup easily.

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• For the Soup:
• 2 lbs chicken bone-in for more flavor, or boneless for convenience
• 6 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought
• 2 cups water optional, for a lighter broth
• 2 large carrots diced
• 2 stalks of celery chopped
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil for sautéing vegetables
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
• For the Dumplings:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup milk or buttermilk for extra tenderness
• 2 tbsp butter melted (or 1 egg for firmer dumplings)

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Broth
• Sauté the Vegetables – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Add the Chicken and Broth – Place the chicken in the pot, then pour in chicken broth and water. Add thyme, poultry seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer the Broth – Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
• Shred the Chicken – Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, then return it to the pot.
• Step 2: Make the Dumplings
• Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Add Wet Ingredients – Pour in milk and melted butter. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
• Drop Dumplings Into Soup – Use a spoon to drop dollops of dough into the simmering soup.
• Cover and Steam – Close the lid and let the dumplings cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
• Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick into a dumpling; if it comes out clean, they are ready.
• Step 4: Final Touches and Serving
• Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with bread or a side salad.

Notes

For extra flavor, use bone-in chicken and simmer longer for a richer broth.
For thicker soup, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, then stir it in before adding the dumplings.
For gluten-free dumplings, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
Details
✅ Prep Time: 15 minutes
✅ Cook Time: 50 minutes
✅ Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
✅ Yield: 6 servings
✅ Category: Soup
✅ Method: Stovetop
✅ Cuisine: American, Southern
✅ Diet: Nut-Free, Can be made Gluten-Free

Keywords
Chicken dumpling soup, homemade chicken dumpling soup, classic chicken and dumplings, easy chicken dumpling soup, Southern-style chicken soup, comfort food soup recipe

Nutrition (Per Serving)
✅ Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
✅ Calories: 350 kcal
✅ Sugar: 4g
✅ Sodium: 750mg
✅ Fat: 12g
✅ Saturated Fat: 5g
✅ Unsaturated Fat: 5g
✅ Trans Fat: 0g
✅ Carbohydrates: 40g
✅ Fiber: 3g
✅ Protein: 22g
✅ Cholesterol: 65mg

Keyword Chicken dumpling soup, homemade chicken dumpling soup, classic chicken and dumplings, easy chicken dumpling soup, Southern-style chicken soup, comfort food soup recipe