As the first chill of autumn fills the air, I find myself drawn to comforting bowls of soup that warm not just the body but the soul. Enter my Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup—a nourishing dish that combines tender vegetables, succulent rotisserie chicken, and pillowy dumplings into a cozy experience that feels like a warm embrace on a cold day. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or just in need of a hearty meal that doesn’t weigh you down, there’s an option for everyone at the table.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a classic dish healthier without sacrificing its heartwarming essence. The creamy texture from coconut milk replaces traditional dairy, yet still offers delightful richness to the soup. Perfectly portioned and meal prep-friendly, this dish is ideal for whipping up on a Sunday afternoon and enjoying throughout the week. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe—it’s time to transform your kitchen into a haven of comfort!
Why will you adore Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup?
Comforting and rich in flavor, this soup wraps you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful. Versatile for various diets, you can easily swap ingredients to fit gluten-free or vegan preferences. Meal prep-friendly, it’s perfect for busy weekdays, ready to soothe your soul at a moment’s notice. Creamy richness from coconut milk makes it satisfyingly decadent without the heaviness of dairy. Plus, its quick cooking time means you can whip it up in no time, creating a delightful dish that everyone will love!
Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup Ingredients
• Perfect for cozy dinners at home!
For the Dumplings
- Biscuit Dough – Provides the dumpling base; opt for gluten-free biscuit dough for a gluten-free option.
- Flour – Helps coat biscuit pieces and thickens when cooked; use gluten-free flour if necessary.
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; can be replaced with avocado oil.
- Yellow Onion – For aromatic depth and sweetness; shallots make a fine substitute.
- Carrots – Add sweetness and color; try parsnips for a different flavor.
- Celery – Provides crunch and flavor; this can be omitted if you don’t have it.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors; adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; white pepper works for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Offers savory depth; substitute with garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
- Italian Seasoning – Provides a herby blend; switch to individual herbs like basil or oregano if desired.
- Fresh Thyme – Adds a fragrant touch; dried thyme can be used (just use less).
- Dried Sage – Complements the soup with earthy tones; omit if you don’t have any.
For the Broth
- Chicken Broth – Forms the soup base that imparts rich flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – Adds heartiness and protein; substitute with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Coconut Milk – Provides creaminess without dairy; use heavy cream if not adhering to dairy-free.
For Finishing Touches
- Frozen Peas – Introduce color and sweetness; fresh peas can be used if they are available.
This Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings!
How to Make Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup
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Heat oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering, creating the perfect opportunity to sauté your vegetables.
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Sauté veggies: Dice the onion, celery, and carrots, then add them to the pot. Sauté for 6-7 minutes until they are soft and fragrant, seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Prepare dough: While the veggies are cooking, cut the biscuit dough into 3-4 pieces. In a separate bowl, coat these pieces lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
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Mix flavors: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, sage, and the remaining flour to the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together to combine and infuse the flavors.
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Deglaze pot: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any delicious bits off the bottom of the pot. Then add the remaining broth, chicken, peas, and coconut milk, bringing it all together.
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Simmer soup: Allow the soup to reach a gentle simmer. Add the biscuit pieces, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the dumplings to cook through and soak up the flavor.
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Serve and enjoy: Stir the soup well before serving. Ladle into bowls and savor the warmth! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup?
Warm your heart and home with a perfectly balanced meal that highlights the cozy flavors of this comforting soup.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for dipping, enjoy the contrast of textures and soak up every bit of the savory broth.
- Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the hearty dumplings.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, roasted veggies enhance the meal with their natural sweetness and comforting warmth. A lovely addition!
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs complements the soup's richness while offering another comforting layer to the meal.
- Sparkling Water: The effervescence cuts through the creamy texture, refreshing your palate as you savor each spoonful of soup.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors with its buttery topping.
Each option brings something unique to your dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that will have everyone feeling nourished and satisfied!
Expert Tips for Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup
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Prep Ahead: Make the soup on a Sunday and portion it out to enjoy throughout the week. It’s a meal prep-friendly option that keeps well!
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Cooking Temperature: Always make sure the olive oil is hot before adding vegetables. This ensures a nice sauté and prevents sticking.
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Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the dumplings. Add additional broth for a thinner consistency.
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Veggie Swaps: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients based on what you have. For example, parsnips can replace carrots, adding a delightful twist to the soup.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish and enhance its flavor. A sprinkle just before serving goes a long way!
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Coconut Milk Tip: For the best creaminess, shake canned coconut milk well before use to blend the cream and liquid thoroughly in this hearty dairy-free chicken dumpling soup.
Storage Tips for Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This hearty dairy-free chicken dumpling soup will maintain its flavors and textures when reheated gently.
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Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Flash freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent sticking.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore creaminess. Stir occasionally to ensure an even warm-up.
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Avoid Overheating: Take care not to overheat when reheating, as this can cause the dumplings to lose their texture. A gentle reheat keeps the comforting essence intact!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, prepare the biscuit dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy your warm bowl of comfort, simply resume the soup-making process by sautéing the prepped veggies, adding the broth and chicken, then letting it simmer before stirring in the biscuit pieces. This way, you'll savor just as delicious flavors with minimal effort, making your meal prep not only easier but enjoyable!
Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup Variations
Get ready to make this warm and inviting soup your own with delightful twists!
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Vegan Version: Substitute shredded chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu to create a fully plant-based dish.
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Gluten-Free Swaps: Use gluten-free biscuit dough and flour to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious soup without worry.
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Herb-Enhanced: Elevate flavor by stirring in fresh dill or parsley right before serving for a fragrant finish.
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Veggie Boost: Increase nutrition by adding a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a delightful heat.
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Creamy Variation: For an indulgence, blend a little avocado into the soup before serving for added creaminess and healthy fats.
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Savory Depth: Use homemade broth for a richer flavor, or toss in a tablespoon of miso paste during cooking for an umami boost.
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Texture Twist: For a bit of crunch, top each bowl with toasted seeds or nuts just before serving to contrast the soft dumplings.
Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of biscuit dough should I use for the dumplings?
I recommend using traditional biscuit dough for a light and fluffy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute with gluten-free biscuit dough available in stores. You can also find recipes online for homemade gluten-free biscuit dough that will work beautifully in this hearty dairy-free chicken dumpling soup.
How should I store leftovers of the soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy richness. Just add a splash of broth or water if you find it has thickened too much during storage.
Can I freeze this hearty dairy-free chicken dumpling soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, flash freeze the portions on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to your containers to prevent sticking.
What if my dumplings are dense and not fluffy?
If your dumplings turn out dense, it may have been due to overcooking or too much flour. To achieve that heavenly fluffiness, make sure to keep an eye on them while simmering for 15 minutes. An alternative tip is to gently fold the biscuit pieces into the soup rather than stirring vigorously, which helps them remain fluffy!
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To adapt this hearty dairy-free chicken dumpling soup for a vegetarian or vegan diet, simply replace the rotisserie chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and enjoy a deliciously nourishing bowl that's full of sustenance without sacrificing flavor.
How long will cooked peas stay fresh in this soup?
Frozen peas can add a lovely sweetness and color to the soup! They can generally be added at the end of cooking and will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you prefer, fresh peas can be used as well for an even brighter taste in this hearty dairy-free chicken dumpling soup.
Irresistibly Hearty Dairy-Free Chicken Dumpling Soup Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Dice the onion, celery, and carrots, then add them to the pot. Sauté for 6-7 minutes until soft.
- Cut the biscuit dough into 3-4 pieces and coat lightly with flour.
- Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, sage, and remaining flour to the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape any bits off the bottom. Then add remaining broth, chicken, peas, and coconut milk.
- Allow the soup to reach a gentle simmer. Add biscuit pieces and cover, reducing heat to low.
- Simmer for 15 minutes to allow dumplings to cook through.
- Stir well before serving. Ladle into bowls.
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