Name: Chicken and Dumpling Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 bay leaf; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for soup); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dumplings); 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons melted butter; ½ cup milk

When you need a warm hug in a bowl, this Chicken and Dumpling Soup is exactly what your soul craves. It’s hearty, rich, and brimming with tender chicken, soft doughy dumplings, and a savory broth that feels like pure comfort. Whether you’re recovering from a long day or simply chasing cozy vibes on a rainy evening, this soup will fill your kitchen with the aroma of home.

What makes this recipe a favorite in so many households is its simplicity. The ingredients are humble, but when brought together, they create a flavor that’s satisfying and layered. You don’t need to be a professional chef to master it, but the result is sure to impress everyone gathered at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dumpling Soup

This recipe is a comforting classic that fits into any season but really shines when temperatures drop. It has that old-fashioned, made-from-scratch charm that makes people think you spent hours over the stove—even though you didn’t. The dumplings cook right in the soup, soaking up the flavor of the broth while staying tender and pillowy. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings makes it a complete meal in one pot, with minimal cleanup.

Another reason to love it? It’s highly adaptable. You can make it with leftover rotisserie chicken, swap in different vegetables, or even make it creamy if that’s your style. However you tailor it, the essence of this comfort food stays intact.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use whatever cooked chicken you have on hand. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds extra flavor. If you prefer to cook it fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully. Thighs tend to offer a bit more flavor and tenderness, but breasts are a leaner option. You could even use a whole chicken and simmer it first to build a richer broth. Just be sure the chicken is cooked and shredded before you add the dumplings.

Ingredients for the Chicken and Dumpling Soup

This soup comes together with easy-to-find, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a special role in giving the dish its comforting flavor and hearty texture. Using fresh vegetables and simple pantry staples ensures you get the full experience of homemade goodness.

Chicken: The heart of the soup. Use shredded cooked chicken for ease and rich flavor.
Carrots: Add natural sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
Celery: Provides a classic aromatic base and enhances the overall flavor.
Onion: A must for building that savory depth in the broth.
Garlic: Brings warmth and a subtle kick.
Chicken broth: The foundation of your soup; go for low sodium so you can control the saltiness.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the soup to your liking.
Bay leaf: Adds an herbal note that elevates the broth.
Flour: Helps thicken the broth just a bit for a satisfying texture.
Milk: Used in the dumpling dough for tender, fluffy results.
Baking powder: Gives the dumplings their rise and softness.
Butter: Adds richness to the dumplings and the soup base.
All-purpose flour (for dumplings): The main ingredient in the dumplings, creating the perfect soft texture.

How To Make the Chicken and Dumpling Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let the vegetables cook through, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken and let everything simmer together so the flavors can meld, about 5 more minutes.

Step 4: Make the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and milk. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Drop the Dumplings

Using a spoon, drop small dollops of dough directly into the simmering soup. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Serve hot and enjoy that comforting goodness!

How to Serve and Store Chicken and Dumpling Soup

This Chicken and Dumpling Soup is best served hot and straight from the pot. It’s the kind of dish that speaks for itself—no need for fancy garnishes, just a deep bowl and a big spoon. If you want to add a little flair, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper does the trick.

This recipe yields enough to feed about 6 people generously. It’s filling enough to stand alone as a full meal, but also pairs nicely with a fresh salad or some warm, crusty bread for dipping.

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the dumplings. The dumplings may absorb more broth as it sits, so feel free to stir in a splash of extra chicken broth or water when reheating.

What to Serve With Chicken and Dumpling Soup?

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty soup.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Nothing beats dipping a slice of warm, crusty bread into the flavorful broth.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These bring a caramelized crunch and earthy flavor that complements the soft dumplings.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Simple and flavorful, green beans sautéed in garlic butter add brightness to your meal.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

A small portion on the side offers an indulgent, cheesy bite that pairs well with the soup’s rustic flavor.

Southern Cornbread Poppers

For a Southern twist, these slightly sweet and savory bites are a fun alternative to regular bread.

Roasted Asparagus and Potatoes

This combo gives you veggies and starch in one side, ideal for a well-rounded plate.

Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes

End your meal with a sweet treat that’s just as comforting and homey as the soup itself.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you can’t get enough cozy bowls of warmth like this Chicken and Dumpling Soup, you might want to check out these other hearty favorites from Mia Plates:

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup Recipe is packed with cheesy pasta goodness and bold Italian flavor.
Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup brings a Mediterranean twist with artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe has the familiar taste of pot pie in a creamy, comforting bowl.
Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce aren’t a soup but make a great pairing with a bowl.
Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs is another cozy, satisfying dinner idea with a creamy, herbed touch.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever you’re craving cozy comfort food.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you use rotisserie chicken or make it from scratch? Did you tweak the dumplings? I’d love to hear about your take on it.

Explore more homey, satisfying soups and meals on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to bowl of goodness!