Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth
Place the chicken directly into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, add salt, black pepper, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The broth will become aromatic and slightly golden.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir gently.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Stir in the milk or half-and-half. Keep the soup at a gentle simmer—do not boil—to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 6: Make the Dumpling Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk just until combined; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 7: Add the Dumplings
Using a spoon, drop small dollops of dumpling dough directly onto the surface of the simmering soup. Space them slightly apart as they will expand.
Step 8: Cook the Dumplings
Cover the pot and simmer for 12–15 minutes without lifting the lid. The dumplings will puff up and become light and fluffy.
Step 9: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Gently stir once to distribute dumplings evenly.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Variations & Substitutions
• Shortcut Version: Use rotisserie chicken and add it after the vegetables simmer for faster prep.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley or dill at the end for a brighter flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and baking powder for the dumplings.
• Vegetable Add-In: Stir in peas or corn during the last 10 minutes for extra color and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
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