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### **Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base**
1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
#### **Step 2: Build the Broth**
3. Add chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper to the pot. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
#### **Step 3: Shred the Chicken**
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Discard the bay leaf and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
#### **Step 4: Make the Dumplings**
5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be thick and sticky.
#### **Step 5: Cook the Dumplings**
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering soup, spacing them slightly apart. Cover the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes without lifting the lid to allow the dumplings to steam.
#### **Step 6: Finish the Soup**
7. Stir in the heavy cream or milk, gently mixing to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
#### **Step 7: Serve**
8. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each serving gets plenty of chicken and dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
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### **Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings**
1. **Don’t Lift the Lid:** While the dumplings are cooking, keep the lid on to ensure they steam properly and remain fluffy.
2. **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh vegetables and quality chicken broth make a noticeable difference in flavor.
3. **Customize the Dumplings:** Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the dumpling dough for extra flavor.
4. **Thicker Broth:** If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup before adding the cream.
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### **Variations**
– **Vegetable-Packed:** Add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition.
– **Herbed Dumplings:** Mix rosemary, thyme, or dill into the dumpling dough for an aromatic touch.
– **Spicy Twist:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the soup for a subtle kick.
– **Gluten-Free Option:** Use gluten-free flour for the dumplings and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
– Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
– Serve with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the delicious broth.
– Top with freshly ground black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
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### **Storage and Reheating**
– **Refrigerate:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– **Reheat:** Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup if it thickens.
– **Freeze:** The soup base freezes well, but the dumplings may not retain their texture when thawed. For best results, freeze the soup without dumplings and add fresh ones when reheating.
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### **Why This Recipe Works**
This recipe combines wholesome ingredients, easy preparation, and comforting flavors to create a meal that feels like home. The creamy broth and tender dumplings provide the perfect balance of textures, while the savory chicken and aromatic vegetables make each bite satisfying.
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### **The Bottom Line**
**Chicken and Dumplings Soup with a Comforting Touch** is a timeless classic that never fails to delight. It’s perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or anytime you need a bowl of warmth and love.
Gather your ingredients, grab a big pot, and enjoy this heartwarming dish that will surely become a favorite in your home!
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