Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
  1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken to the pot.
  2. Stir in the thyme and bay leaf.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
  1. While the soup simmers, prepare the dumplings.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Stir in the milk, melted butter, and parsley (if using) until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Add Dumplings to the Soup
  1. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and stir in the milk or cream.
  2. Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop dollops of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the simmering soup. Space them evenly, as they will expand while cooking.
  3. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 10–15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook through with steam.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
  1. Once the dumplings are fluffy and fully cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. For added brightness, sprinkle fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice over the soup before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the chicken and dumpling soup hot, paired with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as leftovers the next day—just reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the dumplings' texture.

Tips for Success:

  • Fluffy Dumplings: For lighter dumplings, ensure the dough isn’t overmixed, and keep the lid on while cooking to trap steam.
  • Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add peas, green beans, or mushrooms for more variety.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, or even dill can enhance the soup's flavor profile.

This hearty chicken and dumpling soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience of warmth, love, and tradition. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s sure to become a family favorite!