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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Soup Base
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, then add thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Lower the heat to a simmer and return the cooked chicken to the pot. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Prepare the Dumplings
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The mixture should be thick and scoopable—don’t overmix.
- Shape the Dumplings: Using a spoon, scoop small amounts of the dumpling dough and gently drop them into the simmering soup.
3. Cook the Dumplings
- Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as the dumplings need the steam to cook through. Once the dumplings are puffed up and cooked through, you’ll know they’re ready.
4. Add the Cream
- Once the dumplings are fully cooked, stir in the heavy cream or milk for a rich, creamy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to serve plenty of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly, using chicken thighs will give your soup a richer flavor.
- Customize the Dumplings: Feel free to add herbs or grated cheese to your dumplings for a personalized twist. A little garlic powder or parsley can make a big difference in taste.
- Simmer Low and Slow: To get the most flavor from your soup, let it simmer gently. Avoid rushing this step—allowing the ingredients to meld together is key to a delicious result.
- Make Ahead: Chicken and Dumpling Soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dumplings may lose some of their fluffiness, but the flavor will still be amazing. You can reheat it on the stovetop or microwave.
Why This Soup is a Family Favorite
Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s warm, filling, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Plus, it’s highly versatile—feel free to swap out the vegetables or add extra ingredients to make it your own. This is a great dish to make when you need something comforting after a long day, or when you’re looking to feed a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or bringing it to a family gathering, Chicken and Dumpling Soup will always be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a recipe that never fails to comfort and satisfy. Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delightful soup with your loved ones!
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