Whether you’re a fan of hearty soups or looking for a cozy meal to warm you up, this Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe is the perfect choice. It’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and brings together the best of fall ingredients. The combination of tender chicken and fluffy pumpkin dumplings makes this dish a standout for any occasion—from family dinners to gatherings with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting flavors: This dish combines classic chicken soup with rich pumpkin, creating a warm, inviting flavor profile.
- Seasonal ingredients: Featuring pumpkin and butternut squash, it highlights the best of fall produce.
- Easy preparation: With simple steps and familiar techniques, anyone can make this delicious meal.
- Versatile serving options: Perfect as a main dish or a starter, this soup can adapt to various meal settings.
- Filling yet light: The dumplings are airy while the soup remains hearty—ideal for satisfying your cravings without feeling heavy.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 5-quart Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 5-quart Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, perfect for simmering soups without burning.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot to capture all those flavors.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your dumpling mixture, ensuring they turn out light and fluffy.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons Countryside Creamery Pure Irish Butter
- 2 large carrots, peeled as desired & diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons Baker’s Corner All-Purpose Flour
- 32 ounces Simply Nature Organic Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Baker’s Corner 100% Pure Pumpkin
- heaping 1/2 teaspoon Stonemill Ground Cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Stonemill Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 head garlic, halved crosswise & excess paper removed
- 1 1/2 pounds Simply Nature Organic Chicken Breasts
- one 10-ounce bag frozen Simply Nature Organic Butternut Squash or Sweet Potatoes
- 1/2 cup Simply Nature Organic Whole Milk
- pumpkin dumplings (below)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- kosher salt & ground black pepper, to season
For the Dumplings
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) cold Countryside Creamery Pure Irish Butter, grated
- 1 cup Baker’s Corner All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Stonemill Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 large egg, lightly whisked
- 1/3 cup Baker’s Corner 100% Pure Pumpkin
- 1/4 cup Simply Nature Organic Whole Milk
- kosher salt & ground black pepper, to season
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Add the butter to your Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted:
* Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Season with kosher salt and pepper.
* Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
Step 2: Build Your Soup Base
Dust flour over softened veggies:
* Stir to coat everything well. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until browned.
* Gradually pour in chicken broth while scraping any brown bits from the pot’s bottom.
* Add garlic halves, pumpkin purée, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken breasts into the simmering soup:
* Season with more salt and pepper if desired.
* Cover and let simmer for about 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
Step 4: Make Dumpling Dough
While chicken cooks:
* In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, pumpkin spice with some salt and pepper. Whisk together.
* Add grated butter. Mix by hand until coated with flour.
* In another bowl whisk together egg, pumpkin purée, and whole milk then fold into dry ingredients until just combined.
Step 5: Shred Chicken and Combine Ingredients
Once chicken is done:
* Remove it from the pot; shred using forks or a stand mixer.
* Return shredded chicken back into pot along with squash or sweet potatoes and whole milk.
Step 6: Form Dumplings
Using two spoons:
* Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the simmering soup one by one.
* Cover pot again; let simmer for about 8–10 minutes until dumplings are puffy.
Step 7: Finish Up Your Soup
Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pot:
* Taste your soup; adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot in bowls.
Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings!
How to Serve Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
Serving Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings can elevate your dining experience, making it not just a meal but a comforting event. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy this warm dish.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the savory dumplings wonderfully.
Add a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad balances the hearty soup.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast nicely with the dumplings.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the bowl.
- Thyme Leaves: Fresh thyme enhances the autumn flavors of the dish beautifully.
How to Perfect Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
To achieve the best results with your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Flavor Base: Start with sautéing your vegetables until they are caramelized for deeper flavor.
- Do Not Overmix: When preparing dumpling dough, mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
- Gentle Simmering: Cook the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and seasonal produce for enhanced flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
Enhancing your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some top choices:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A crunchy side that adds earthy flavors; simply toss in olive oil, salt, and roast until crispy.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash provides sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dumplings.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins are excellent for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm treat brings a sweet finish to your comforting meal.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and texture; drizzle with lemon juice for brightness.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges offer crunch alongside the softness of dumplings; bake them until golden brown.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
- Overmixing dumpling dough: Mixing the dumpling dough too much will lead to tough dumplings. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined for a light texture.
- Skipping the simmering step: Not allowing the soup to simmer can lead to undercooked chicken and flavors that haven’t fully developed. Be patient; let it simmer as instructed.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or other ingredients can affect the texture of the dumplings. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the dumplings too long can make them dense. Follow the recommended simmering time to maintain their fluffy consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings in an airtight container.
- The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
- Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer servings to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature, typically around 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup base ahead of time and then add fresh dumplings right before serving.
What can I substitute for pumpkin in Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?
You can use butternut squash or sweet potatoes as alternatives to pumpkin for similar flavor profiles.
How do I ensure my pumpkin dumplings are fluffy?
Make sure not to overmix your dumpling dough; gently folding is key for light and airy dumplings.
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this dish and saves you time.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?
A simple green salad or crusty bread complements this dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe is perfect for cozy fall dinners. Its creamy texture, combined with hearty flavors, makes it a comforting choice for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or spices! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, a delightful dish perfect for chilly fall evenings. This recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy pumpkin dumplings, creating a rich and satisfying soup that celebrates seasonal flavors. With its inviting aroma of spices and hearty ingredients, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Whether served as a main course or starter, each spoonful promises to envelop you in comfort.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large carrots
- 1 stalk celery
- 1 large onion
- 32 ounces chicken broth
- 1 cup pure pumpkin
- 1½ pounds chicken breasts
- 10-ounce bag frozen butternut squash or sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup cold butter, grated
- 1 cup flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup pumpkin
- 1/4 cup milk
- Kosher salt & ground black pepper to season
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced carrots, celery, and onion until softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for an additional minute. Gradually add chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Incorporate garlic halves, pumpkin purée, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice; bring to a boil then simmer.
- Add seasoned chicken breasts; cover and simmer until cooked through (10–15 minutes). Shred chicken.
- Combine dumpling ingredients in a bowl until just mixed; spoon into simmering soup.
- Cover and let dumplings cook until puffy (8–10 minutes). Finish with lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor. Consider substituting pumpkin with butternut squash for variation. Don’t overmix your dumpling dough to keep them light.
