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 Warmth: Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall while savoring each bowl.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can create a hearty meal without fuss.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or use leftovers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will love it!
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and healthy veggies, it’s good for you too.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

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

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even heating and slow cooking, resulting in rich flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Great for scraping up browned bits from the pot, enhancing taste.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.

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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

How to Make Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Add the butter to a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once melted:
– Add carrots, celery, and onion.
– Season with salt and pepper as desired.
– Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

Dust flour over softened veggies:
– Stir to coat.
– Cook for an additional minute until browned.
– Slowly pour in chicken broth while scraping up brown bits from the pot.
– Add garlic, pumpkin purée, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice.
– Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add chicken breasts:
– Season with salt and pepper as desired.
– Cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Step 4: Make Dumpling Dough

While chicken cooks:
– In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice; season with salt and pepper.
– Add grated butter and quickly mix by hand until coated with flour mixture.
– In another bowl, whisk together egg, pumpkin purée, and milk. Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients until a thick dough forms.

Step 5: Shred Chicken & Combine

Once chicken is cooked:
– Remove from pot and shred using forks or a stand mixer.
– Return shredded chicken to pot along with butternut squash or sweet potatoes and whole milk. Stir well.

Step 6: Cook Dumplings

Using two small spoons:
– Form tablespoon-sized dumplings from dough.
– Drop them into simmering soup one by one.
– Cover pot and simmer for about 8-10 minutes until dumplings are puffy.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Squeeze fresh lemon juice into soup:
– Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
– Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Serving your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings can elevate your dining experience. This dish is warm, comforting, and versatile, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme can enhance the earthy flavors of the soup.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve with slices of sourdough bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds a savory touch that complements the dumplings beautifully.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing in Caesar salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavors and provides a silky finish.

How to Perfect Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Perfecting your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings comes down to a few key techniques. Follow these tips for delightful results every time.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance flavor significantly.
• Light Dough Handling: Handle the dumpling dough gently to keep them light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings.
• Temperature Control: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer instead of boiling vigorously. This helps maintain tender dumplings.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking. Taste before serving to ensure balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, roasted until caramelized.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon juice offers a nutritious contrast.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that complements the savory soup.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide crunch alongside the soft dumplings.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and acidity that balances out the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can impact your dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients ensure the best flavor. Always check expiration dates on your chicken broth and spices before starting.

• Overmixing the dumpling dough: This can lead to dense dumplings. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for light and airy results.

• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or spices for a flavorful finish.

• Skipping the simmering step: Failing to let the soup simmer can result in tough chicken. Allow it to cook gently to achieve tender meat and rich flavors.

• Ignoring cooking times: Dumplings need precise cooking time. Keep an eye on them to ensure they puff up perfectly without becoming overcooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

• Stovetop: Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout—about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?

Serve it warm in individual bowls with fresh herbs sprinkled on top for added flavor and color.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

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

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for the dumplings while ensuring other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?

The total time from prep to serving is about 55 minutes, making it a quick option for a cozy dinner.

Can I use leftover chicken instead of cooking it in the soup?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken would work perfectly in this recipe—just add it when you introduce other ingredients into the pot.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings recipe is not only a warm hug on a plate but also offers endless customization options. You can swap in different vegetables or adjust spices according to your preference. It’s perfect for chilly days when you crave comfort food that warms both body and soul. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!