Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Whether you’re obsessed with all things pumpkin spiced or you just love playing with warm fall flavors in savory dishes, this Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe is a must-try fall dinner, perfect for welcoming in another delicious soup season! The soup itself is a pretty classic homemade chicken soup. It starts with a base of mirepoix, and the chicken breasts are gently poached right in the soup for meltingly tender flavor. It’s also made with hearty fall squash or sweet potatoes (your choice!) and canned pumpkin for creamy texture. It’s decidedly savory, with a little bit of spice for the kind of warmth you crave on a cool day – absolutely delicious! The pumpkin dumplings are totally the star of the show here, though. They are insanely light and airy, just the right amount of pumpkin and spice. Be sure to refer to the blog post above for plenty of tips and tricks to ensure pillowy-soft results!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: This dish combines classic chicken soup with warm spices and pumpkin for a unique twist.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful meal.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean chicken, it’s satisfying without being heavy.
• Impressive Presentation: The fluffy pumpkin dumplings add a beautiful touch to your bowl.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready helps keep your kitchen organized.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups & spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for even heat distribution; it prevents burning and enhances flavors as you simmer.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware; it allows you to scrape up flavorful bits from the bottom.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for keeping ingredients organized and ensuring easy mixing.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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

How to Make Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. Add the butter to a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Dust flour over veggies; cook while stirring frequently until browned.
4. Slowly pour in chicken broth while scraping bottom of pot; add garlic, pumpkin purée, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice.
5. Bring to a boil then reduce heat. Add chicken; cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and pepper; whisk well.
2. Add grated butter; mix quickly by hand until coated in flour mixture.
3. In another bowl, whisk together egg, pumpkin purée, and whole milk.
4. Combine wet ingredients into dry ingredients gently using a spatula until just mixed.

Step 3: Shred Chicken & Combine Ingredients

1. Remove cooked chicken from pot; shred using forks or stand mixer.
2. Return shredded chicken back to pot along with butternut squash or sweet potatoes and whole milk; stir well.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

1. Use two small spoons to form tablespoon-sized dumplings from dough; drop into simmering soup one by one.
2. Cover pot; simmer for about 8-10 minutes until dumplings are puffy.

Step 5: Final Touches

Squeeze fresh lemon juice into pot; taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot in individual bowls.

Enjoy your hearty Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings!

How to Serve Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings is all about enhancing the cozy flavors of this fall dish. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your dumplings and soup.

Classic Bowl

• Serve the chicken and pumpkin dumplings in a deep bowl with plenty of broth for a warming meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic touch.

Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette.
• Great for dipping into the rich broth, adding texture and flavor.

Side Salad

• A light, crisp side salad can balance the richness of the soup.
• Consider using mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette to add freshness.

Cheese Topping

• Add a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, on top of the hot soup.
• The melted cheese adds creaminess and enhances the overall flavor.

Herb Infusion

• Fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil can elevate the dish with their vibrant flavors.
• Add them just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Squeeze of Citrus

• A squeeze of lime or lemon juice over the dumplings brightens up the flavors.
• The acidity cuts through the richness, creating balance in each bite.

How to Perfect Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Achieving perfect Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings takes a bit of care but is well worth it. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dumplings turn out fluffy and delicious.

• Use Cold Butter: Incorporating cold butter into your dough keeps it flaky. Grate it into small pieces before mixing in.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold your dumpling batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings.
• Simmer Gently: Cook dumplings at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to ensure they cook evenly without becoming dense.
• Test for Doneness: Check if they’re fully cooked by cutting one in half; it should be fluffy inside without any wet dough.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving; don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your chicken and pumpkin dumplings right after cooking while they are still warm and fluffy.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Complementing Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings with thoughtfully chosen side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly with the rich broth, offering delicious crunchiness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds both color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Cauliflower Mash: Creamy cauliflower mash serves as a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, balancing flavors well.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the soup’s texture.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness while complementing the warmth of the dumpling soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an extra filling option alongside your soup dish.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory flavors while adding warmth to your table.
8. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad dressed in olive oil provides refreshing bites between spoonfuls of hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook.
• Overmixing the dumpling dough – Overworking the dough can make the dumplings dense. Mix until just combined for light and airy results.
• Using too much liquid – Adding excess broth can dilute the soup’s flavor. Stick to the recommended measurements for a rich taste.
• Neglecting the chicken cooking time – Cooking chicken too briefly may leave it undercooked. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Not letting the dumplings rest – Allowing the dumplings to sit after cooking helps them firm up. Don’t skip this step for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Gently reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey or beef instead of chicken for similar flavors and textures.

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

Use gluten-free flour as a substitute in both the soup and dumpling recipes.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes! Feel free to include seasonal vegetables like kale, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.

How do I store leftover Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors perfect for fall. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Try making it today for a warm meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!