Hearty Chicken Dumplings Soup

This chicken and dumplings recipe brings comfort and warmth straight to your kitchen. Loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day. Simple to prepare but rich in flavor, it has been a go-to during family dinners and cold weather evenings, creating memories one bowl at a time.

This recipe first became my family’s favorite after I whipped it up on a busy weeknight. Now it’s requested without fail when the weather turns cool.

Ingredients

• Rotisserie chicken shredded or cooked chicken breasts: ensures tender protein without extra work
• Water and Better than Bouillon Chicken: create a deep flavorful broth foundation
• Salted butter: adds richness and helps soften the vegetables
• Carrots celery and yellow onions: classic mirepoix base that gives sweetness and depth
• Flour: thickens the broth for the perfect soup texture
• Milk: adds creaminess to both soup and dumplings
• Italian seasoning garlic powder onion powder and salt: round out and enhance the savory profile
• Bisquick: quick and reliable base for light fluffy dumplings

Instructions

Simmers the Broth:

In a large bowl combine water with Better than Bouillon and heat in the microwave for 3 minutes. Stir until well combined to create the chicken broth base. Set aside for later use.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large stock pot over medium heat add chopped carrots celery onions and butter. Cook stirring often for 10 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent but not browned. This step builds the flavorful foundation of the soup.

Make the Roux and Broth:

Sprinkle in half a cup of flour and stir well to coat the vegetables. Gradually add the prepared chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil so it begins thickening.

Add the Chicken and Seasonings:

Add shredded chicken along with Italian seasoning garlic powder onion powder salt and milk. Stir everything well to combine, then reduce heat to low and let this simmer gently while you mix up the dumplings.

Prepare the Dumpling Batter:

In a separate bowl mix Bisquick with salt garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Slowly add the milk and fold gently to combine. Do not overmix as this keeps the dumplings tender. Let the batter rest for one to two minutes.

Drop and Cook the Dumplings:

Use a tablespoon sized scoop to drop dollops of batter into the simmering soup, leaving space between each one since they will expand. Cover the pot and simmer on low for 15 minutes to cook the dumplings through.

Turn and Finish Cooking:

Carefully turn over each dumpling without breaking them to ensure even cooking. Remove the lid and cook uncovered for an additional two to three minutes to firm up their texture.

Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the soup into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley to brighten the dish.

I love how the dumplings soak up the rich broth making every bite tender and satisfying. This recipe has been a staple during family gatherings and reminds me of cozy evenings shared around the table.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can replace Better than Bouillon with homemade chicken stock if available. For a dairy-free version use almond or oat milk and vegan butter alternatives. If Bisquick is not on hand you can make a simple dumpling mix using all-purpose flour baking powder and salt.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken and dumplings with a side of crusty bread to soak up the broth or a simple green salad for a fresh contrast. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or light beer.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the fall and winter for extra warmth. Swap carrots and celery for sweet corn and green beans in the summer for a lighter variation. You can also stir in some spinach or kale just before serving to boost the nutrition.

Enjoy this cozy meal that brings warmth and smiles, perfect for any chilly day.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts shredded finely both work well to provide tender meat that absorbs flavors.

→ Can I make the broth without bouillon?

Yes, using homemade or store-bought chicken broth is a good alternative to bouillon for a rich base.

→ How do I keep dumplings light and fluffy?

Gently mix the dumpling batter and avoid overmixing to prevent dense texture, and leave space between dumplings while cooking.

→ What vegetables are included?

Carrots, celery, and onions provide a savory foundation to the dish, sautéed in butter for depth of flavor.

→ Can I add herbs or garnishes?

Adding Italian seasoning enhances flavor during cooking, and fresh chopped parsley can be used as a garnish for brightness.