Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of fall, then this Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe is for you! It’s one of those meals that wraps you in a cozy hug, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich aroma of the simmering soup fills your home, inviting everyone to the table with eager smiles.

What makes this dish special is the combination of tender chicken and fluffy pumpkin dumplings, all swimming in a hearty broth that boasts a hint of spice. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory and sweet, making it an instant favorite in my household. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together in just about an hour, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-friendly appeal: With familiar flavors and fun dumplings, it’s sure to please even picky eaters.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, saving you time on busy days.
• Comforting flavors: The warm spices and creamy pumpkin create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy here! This Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 (recipe 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Change the squash: Experiment with different types of squash or root vegetables like carrots or parsnips.

How to Make Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding the butter to a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Season them with salt and pepper. This step is important because sautéing the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Create the Soup Base

Dust the flour over those softened veggies to give your soup body. Stir frequently until everything is nicely browned—about 1-2 minutes will do! Then slowly pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom; this adds depth to your soup’s flavor. Add garlic cloves along with pumpkin purée, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Prepare Your Dumpling Dough

While your soup simmers away happily, let’s whip up those delightful dumplings! In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and pumpkin spice with salt and pepper. Don’t forget to quickly incorporate the grated butter so it gets coated well with flour—this helps keep your dumplings light! In another bowl, whisk together egg, pumpkin purée, and milk before gently folding into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Shred Your Chicken

Once your chicken is cooked through (about 10-15 minutes), take it out of the pot to shred. You can use two forks or pop them into a stand mixer—what an easy trick! Add shredded chicken back into the pot along with butternut squash or sweet potatoes and milk. Stir everything together before bringing it back to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Drop in Those Dumplings!

Using two small spoons (or a cookie scoop), create tablespoon-sized dumplings from your dough mixture and drop them directly into the simmering soup. Be careful not to overwork them—this ensures they stay fluffy! Cover your pot and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes until they’ve puffed up beautifully.

Step 6: Finish Your Soup

Finally, squeeze fresh lemon juice into your pot for brightness. Taste-test your creation; feel free to adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle this hearty goodness into bowls—your family will be ready to dig in!

Enjoy every comforting bite of this Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Making Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings can be a delightful experience, especially when you incorporate a few handy tips along the way!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavors of your soup, making it taste even more vibrant and comforting.
• Don’t overmix the dumpling dough: Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings. Gently folding the ingredients together until just combined ensures that your dumplings remain light and fluffy.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper incrementally allows you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Shred chicken efficiently: For quick shredding, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. It saves time and gives you perfectly shredded chicken without the hassle of using forks.
• Cook dumplings covered: Covering the pot while the dumplings cook helps trap steam, ensuring they puff up beautifully and cook evenly throughout.

How to Serve Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Serving your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings in an inviting way can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to present this cozy dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.
• Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding heartiness to your meal.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness from roasted Brussels sprouts pairs well with the sweetness of pumpkin in the soup, creating a balanced plate.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes make for an excellent side that echoes the autumnal flavors in the main dish, making every bite comforting.

I hope these tips inspire you to create your own delicious bowl of Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings this fall! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe is perfect for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened after freezing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?

Absolutely! You can easily swap in your favorite fall vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?

This comforting soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Enjoy it as a complete meal!

Can I prepare Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later. It’s great for meal prep!

What makes Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings special?

This dish combines tender chicken with creamy pumpkin dumplings that are light and fluffy. It’s perfect for cozying up during chilly fall evenings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe as much as I do! The cozy flavors of pumpkin combined with tender chicken create a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and happiness!