Save A comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chicken, fluffy homemade dumplings, and a savory broth—perfect for a cozy meal.
I first served this to my family on a chilly evening and it warmed us all up instantly.
Ingredients
- Chicken and Broth: 1.5 lb (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, 8 cups (2 liters) low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion, diced, 3 carrots, sliced, 2 celery stalks, sliced, 3 garlic cloves, minced, 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste), 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- Dumplings: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and diced, 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk, 1 large egg, lightly beaten, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add chicken and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, until chicken is tender.
- Step 4:
- Remove chicken from the pot. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot. Discard bay leaves. Stir in peas.
- Step 5:
- While the soup simmers, prepare the dumplings: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Cut in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Step 6:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and parsley. Add to dry ingredients, stirring just until combined (do not overmix).
- Step 7:
- Bring soup to a gentle simmer. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dumpling dough onto the surface (about 12–14 dumplings).
- Step 8:
- Cover the pot tightly with a lid. Simmer (do not lift the lid) for 15 minutes, until dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
- Step 9:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Save This dish always brings my family together around the table for stories and laughter.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy pot, Mixing bowls, Cutting board and knife, Ladle, Spoon or small scoop for dumplings
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), Milk, Eggs. May contain: Celery (check broth and seasoning blends). Always verify packaging if serving those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 43 g, Protein: 29 g per serving
Save Enjoy this classic comfort meal any time you need warmth and satisfaction.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well; thighs offer richer flavor while breasts keep it lean.
- → Can I prepare the dumplings ahead?
The dumpling dough is best used fresh for optimal fluffiness, but it can be mixed shortly before cooking.
- → How do I achieve light, fluffy dumplings?
Use cold butter cut into the dry mix and combine wet ingredients gently without overmixing to keep dumplings tender.
- → What herbs enhance the broth flavor?
Bay leaves, thyme, and fresh parsley add aromatic layers that complement the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- → Can this dish be customized to hold different flavors?
Yes, substituting parsley with dill or chives, or adding a splash of cream, can alter the profile without losing comfort.