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Step 2: Make the Soup Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat them. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Cream
- Add the shredded chicken and frozen peas (if using) to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Make the Dumplings
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly pour in the milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the simmering soup. Space them out to prevent sticking.
- Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 12-15 minutes. Avoid opening the lid during this time, as the steam helps the dumplings cook evenly.
- Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, gently stir the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken & Dumplings Soup with:
- Freshly baked bread or buttery biscuits for dipping.
- A light side salad to balance the richness of the soup.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Chicken & Dumplings Soup
- Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: Mix just until the ingredients come together to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and extra flavor, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
- Keep the Lid On: While the dumplings cook, resist the urge to lift the lid too often—it’s essential for steaming the dumplings.
- Thicker Broth: If you like a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the simmering step.
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Freeze: While the soup freezes well, the dumplings may change texture slightly. Freeze the soup base without dumplings, and make fresh dumplings when reheating.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Chicken & Dumplings Soup strikes the perfect balance of hearty and cozy. The tender vegetables, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings come together beautifully to create a satisfying and nostalgic dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple, affordable, and versatile enough to enjoy on any occasion.
Whether you’re whipping up a big pot for a family dinner or treating yourself to a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe will hit the spot.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving classic comfort food that’s both easy and incredibly delicious, this Chicken & Dumplings Soup is a must-try. With its rich flavors, soft dumplings, and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the warm, cozy satisfaction of homemade Chicken & Dumplings Soup! 🍲
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