Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe is a soul-warming, one-pot wonder that blends tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings—ideal for cozy evenings or family gatherings with minimal fuss. Ready in about 1 hour, it’s the ultimate comfort food classic with make-ahead potential. Whether you’re soothing a chilly day or serving a simple supper, you can simmer this Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe to deliver nourishing, satisfying warmth without the hassle. For more chicken-inspired comfort, check out our Tender Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Recipe, which fuses Italian flavors with lean ground chicken for a hearty twist.
What is the Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe?
The Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe is a hearty stew featuring simmered chicken in a savory broth with vegetables, topped with drop-style dumplings that steam to fluffy perfection—perfect for lunch or dinner. This comforting essential is ideal for busy cooks, requiring straightforward stovetop simmering for a bowlful of homemade goodness. If you’re craving effortless Southern-inspired solace, follow the Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe to recreate this timeless favorite at home. It’s a natural companion to lighter chicken dishes like our Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe, where fresh herbs add a bright lift to poached poultry.
Why You’ll Love Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe
There are countless reasons why the perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe has become a staple for home cooks everywhere. From its one-pot convenience to its nourishing satisfaction, this recipe delivers big on flavor without sacrificing simplicity. Here’s why you’ll simmer it on repeat:
Quick and Effortless One-Pot Assembly
One of the best parts of the perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe is how it comes together in under an hour, with everything simmering in a single pot. Just chop veggies, poach chicken, and drop in dumplings—no endless cleanup. It’s perfect for weeknights when you need warmth fast, similar to the easy assembly in our Perfect Breakfast Sausage & Egg Casserole Recipe.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This recipe captures comfort’s essence with tender chicken, aromatic herbs, crisp veggies, and pillowy dumplings in a rich broth, creating bites that are hearty yet light. It’s customizable with extra spices or greens—much like how herb-infused notes elevate dishes in the Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe.
Minimal Kitchen Cleanup
True to one-pot magic, everything cooks together in a Dutch oven or stockpot, keeping your kitchen serene. It’s as straightforward as the steps below, using pantry staples like broth and flour for a stress-free comforting meal, much like the single-pan ease of our Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins.
Versatile for Any Meal
Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a casual family dinner, this soup adapts seamlessly. Add peas or spinach for more veggies. Experiment with herbs, similar to how lemon brightens up the Baby Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe.
Ideal for Feeding Families
The generous yield and scalable portions make it perfect for serving 6–8 people without last-minute stirring. It’s a nourishing option, providing warm, filling soup for groups, and pairs well with sides from our Fresh Herb Pasta Guide for a complete meal.
A Comfort Food Showstopper
With its steaming broth and fluffy dumplings, this soup looks like grandma’s recipe—impressive yet approachable. Garnish with fresh parsley for that finishing touch; it’s sure to soothe, just like the bold layers in the Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe.
The perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe offers the ideal mix of convenience, flavor, and hearty nourishment, making it a must-try for soup lovers. If you’re after dishes that do the work while you relax, this one will quickly become your go-to! For gluten-free adaptations, see our Oat-Flour Pasta Experiment, which uses oats for binding similar to dumpling tweaks.
Hearty, comforting perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe with fluffy dumplings floating in golden broth—perfect for cozy meals, weeknights, or anytime you crave homemade warmth.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 6–8 1x
Category: Soup, Comfort Food
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American/Southern
Ingredients
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Soup Base
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
8 cups chicken broth
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Dumplings
1½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
3 tbsp butter, melted
¾ cup milk (or buttermilk)
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Instructions
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Nutrition
Serving Size: 1 serving
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Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe Ingredients
Soup Base Ingredients
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (for tenderness)
8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium for control)
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (for sweetness)
2 celery stalks, sliced (for earthiness)
1 medium onion, diced (for base flavor)
3 cloves garlic, minced (for aroma)
2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh; for herby depth)
1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh; for freshness)
Salt & black pepper, to taste (for seasoning)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Dumplings Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour (for structure; swap with almond flour for low-carb like in our Tender Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Recipe)
2 tsp baking powder (for lift)
½ tsp salt (for taste)
3 tbsp butter, melted (for richness)
¾ cup milk (or buttermilk; for moisture)
How to Make Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe
Step by step for soupy success—simmer slow, drop light!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables (Start of Cook)
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil or butter. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery; sauté 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and parsley; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth
Add 1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Pour in 8 cups chicken broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot. For extra tenderness tips, see our Classic Beef Ravioli Recipe, adapted for chicken shredding.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings
While soup simmers, whisk together 1½ cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt in a bowl. Stir in 3 tbsp melted butter and ¾ cup milk until a soft dough forms (do not overmix). Let rest 5 minutes.
Step 4: Drop and Simmer Dumplings
Increase heat to a gentle boil. Drop dumpling dough by tablespoonfuls (about 12–15 dumplings) onto the simmering soup surface. Cover and simmer 15–18 minutes without peeking—dumplings will puff and cook through (test one for doneness: fluffy inside, no raw dough).
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Taste broth and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls, ensuring each has chicken, veggies, and a dumpling. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot for ultimate comfort.
Inspired by dumpling dropping? Our Vegan Ravioli with Spinach and Ricotta shares tips on herby infusions, ensuring the soup’s broth stays vibrant like spinach-enhanced fillings. This process not only saves time but highlights the recipe’s comforting ease, much like the light lift in the Baby Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe, where citrus adds subtle brightness—the same principle keeps the dumplings fluffy. For a classic external take, try this Chicken and Dumplings III recipe from Allrecipes, which emphasizes simple drop dumplings for foolproof results.
How Long Will Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Last?
When storing your perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe, prompt cooling keeps its comforting magic alive. These tips ensure it stays fresh for leftovers, especially for chilly days.
How Long Does Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Last in the Fridge?
Cooked soup (including dumplings) keeps 3–4 days in an airtight container. Dumplings may soften slightly, but reheating revives tenderness.
To maintain flavor:
Cool completely before storing.
Store in airtight container or covered pot.
Reheat on stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can You Freeze Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup?
Yes—freeze soup without dumplings for up to 3 months (thaw in fridge, reheat, and make fresh dumplings). Or freeze portions separately. (Pro tip: Similar to storing brothy dishes in the Make-Ahead Ravioli Freezer Guide, freeze base for best texture.)
Signs That Your Soup Has Gone Bad
Watch for:
Slimy chicken or off-smelling broth.
Mushy or discolored veggies.
Mold spots or separation.
Follow these to keep the comfort flowing.
Which Chicken is Best for Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup?
The chicken you choose is the heart of your perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe, influencing tenderness and how well it shreds into the broth. Opt for boneless, skinless cuts for peak ease and flavor.
Best Type of Chicken for Chicken and Dumpling Soup
For juicy, shreddable bites, use 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs—at least that amount for 6–8 servings. It provides ideal tenderness without bones and blends seamlessly throughout.
Boneless Chicken Thighs: The top pick for their juiciness and flavor that infuses the broth richly.
Boneless Chicken Breasts: Leaner option for lighter soup; they shred easily but cook quickly to avoid dryness.
Avoid Bone-In Cuts: They’re flavorful but require extra picking; stick to boneless for better integration.
Poach thoroughly before shredding—it’ll absorb herbs beautifully, as in our Easy Homemade Pasta Dough Recipe for broth-infused pairings.
How to Prep Chicken for Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Use medium heat for even poaching.
Shred while warm for easy distribution.
Return to broth to avoid dry chicken; ready in 25 minutes.
Stabilizing Chicken for Soup
For longer-lasting dish:
Broth Bind: Holds moisture, much like lemon in the Baby Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe.
Herb Balance: Thyme and parsley add depth without overpowering.
Other Chicken Options for Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Ground Chicken: Finely crumbled for a quicker twist, with lighter notes, inspired by our Tender Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Recipe.
Turkey: Leaner swap for variety.
Vegetarian “Chicken”: Plant-based like tofu or seitan for dietary needs, echoing the vegan vibes in Vegan Ravioli with Spinach and Ricotta.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Chicken for Your Soup
The right chicken elevates your perfect chicken and dumpling soup recipe from good to great, ensuring every spoonful is tender and satisfying. Whether breasts or thighs, you’ll simmer that perfect comfort winner every time.
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Conclusion
Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe is a flavorful, one-pot marvel that delivers hearty comfort in a simple, simmering package. With the right ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s bound to become your go-to for soothing suppers. From chicken picks to smart storage, these insights ensure success every bowl. Simmer ahead, ladle and serve, and enjoy this delightful soup with loved ones! Pair it with our Fresh Herb Pasta Guide for a herby side that complements the thyme and parsley notes.
PrintPerfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup
A soul-warming, one-pot wonder that blends tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings—ideal for cozy evenings or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Southern
Ingredients
- Soup Base:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Dumplings:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- ¾ cup milk (or buttermilk)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil or butter. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery; sauté 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and parsley; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add 1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Pour in 8 cups chicken broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- While soup simmers, whisk together 1½ cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt in a bowl. Stir in 3 tbsp melted butter and ¾ cup milk until a soft dough forms (do not overmix). Let rest 5 minutes.
- Increase heat to a gentle boil. Drop dumpling dough by tablespoonfuls (about 12–15 dumplings) onto the simmering soup surface. Cover and simmer 15–18 minutes without peeking—dumplings will puff and cook through (test one for doneness: fluffy inside, no raw dough).
- Taste broth and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls, ensuring each has chicken, veggies, and a dumpling. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot for ultimate comfort.
Notes
This soup can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezing, omit dumplings before freezing and make fresh dumplings when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Perfect Chicken and Dumpling Soup
A soul-warming, one-pot wonder that blends tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings—ideal for cozy evenings or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Southern
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- Soup Base:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Dumplings:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- ¾ cup milk (or buttermilk)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil or butter. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery; sauté 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and parsley; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add 1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Pour in 8 cups chicken broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- While soup simmers, whisk together 1½ cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt in a bowl. Stir in 3 tbsp melted butter and ¾ cup milk until a soft dough forms (do not overmix). Let rest 5 minutes.
- Increase heat to a gentle boil. Drop dumpling dough by tablespoonfuls (about 12–15 dumplings) onto the simmering soup surface. Cover and simmer 15–18 minutes without peeking—dumplings will puff and cook through (test one for doneness: fluffy inside, no raw dough).
- Taste broth and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls, ensuring each has chicken, veggies, and a dumpling. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot for ultimate comfort.
Notes
This soup can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezing, omit dumplings before freezing and make fresh dumplings when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg