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 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. The pumpkin dumplings are totally the star of the show here, though. They are light, airy, and filled with just the right amount of pumpkin and spice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken and pumpkin creates a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for cooler days.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this comforting meal without any hassle.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your tastes.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves 4-6, making it great for family dinners or gatherings.
• Seasonal Appeal: Embrace the flavors of fall with this hearty dish that incorporates beloved seasonal ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings efficiently, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution for cooking the chicken and simmering the soup perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing dough and combining ingredients without mess.

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 Pumpkin 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 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted:
2. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Build Flavor

1. Dust flour over softened veggies; stir well:
2. Cook for 1–2 minutes until browned.
3. Slowly pour in chicken broth while scraping bottom bits.
4. Add garlic halves, pumpkin purée, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice.
5. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

1. Add chicken breasts:
2. Season again with salt and pepper.
3. Cover pot; simmer for 10–15 minutes until cooked through.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

1. Remove chicken from pot; shred using forks or a stand mixer.
2. Return shredded chicken to pot along with butternut squash or sweet potatoes and whole milk.
3. Stir to combine; bring soup back to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Make Dumpling Dough

1. In a medium bowl:
2. Combine flour, baking powder, pumpkin spice; season with salt and pepper.

3. Whisk well then add grated butter; mix quickly by hand.

4. In another bowl:

5. Whisk together egg, pumpkin purée, and whole milk.

6. Add wet ingredients into dry; fold gently until thick dough forms (avoid overmixing).

Step 6: Cook Dumplings

1. Use two small spoons to drop tablespoon-sized dumplings into simmering soup:
2. Cover pot; simmer for 8–10 minutes until dumplings are puffy.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

1. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice; taste-test seasoning before serving:
2. Ladle into bowls immediately; enjoy your warm Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings!

How to Serve Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Serving Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit different tastes. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a weeknight meal, these dumplings add warmth and flavor to any table setting.

Cozy Bowl

• Serve the dumplings in individual bowls with plenty of broth for a heartwarming presentation.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to enhance the flavors and add a pop of color.

Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping into the savory soup.

Cheese Sprinkles

• Add a sprinkle of grated cheese like Parmesan on top for an extra layer of richness.

Side Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup nicely.

How to Perfect Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Perfecting your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor of your soup.

• Don’t overmix the dumpling dough: Gently combining the ingredients ensures light and fluffy dumplings.

• Simmer gently: Keep the heat low when cooking the dumplings to prevent them from becoming dense.

• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a well-balanced dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Pairing side dishes with Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors while providing a crunchy texture.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds nutrition and freshness to your meal.

4. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans offer color and crunch, making them a perfect side.

5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting combination alongside the dumplings.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, avoid these common pitfalls for a perfect dish.

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your spices, flour, and pumpkin are not expired to maximize flavor and texture.
• Overmixing the dumpling dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough dumplings. Combine until just mixed for a light and fluffy result.
• Not seasoning adequately: Lack of seasoning can dull the flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Cooking dumplings too long: Overcooking can make dumplings gummy. Follow the cooking time carefully for a fluffy texture.
• Ignoring the simmering step: Skipping the gentle simmer can affect the soup’s depth of flavor. Allow it to simmer to infuse all ingredients well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings.

What makes Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings special?

These dumplings combine savory chicken with rich pumpkin flavor, creating a warm, comforting dish perfect for fall.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute other seasonal vegetables like carrots, peas, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

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

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust liquid as necessary for consistency.

Can I prepare Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the soup base ahead of time; just add dumplings when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings are not only delicious but also versatile. This cozy dish is perfect for chilly evenings and can be customized with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Give it a try—your family will love it!