Chicken & Dumplings Soup

### **Step 3: Make the Dumplings**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **salt**, **garlic powder**, and **onion powder**.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the **milk**, **melted butter**, and **egg**. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, fold in the **shredded cheddar cheese** for an extra burst of flavor.

### **Step 4: Add the Dumplings to the Soup**
1. Drop spoonfuls of the **dumpling dough** into the simmering soup. Make sure the dumplings are spaced out evenly in the pot.
2. Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they have puffed up and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

### **Step 5: Finish the Soup**
1. Once the dumplings are cooked through, stir in the **heavy cream** (if using) for a richer, creamier texture.
2. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more **salt** and **pepper** if needed.

### **Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
– Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to get a generous amount of both soup and dumplings in each serving.
– Garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** for a touch of color and freshness.

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## **Tips for the Perfect Chicken & Dumplings Soup**

– **Use Rotisserie Chicken**: To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and tender, making it the perfect addition to the soup.
– **Adjust the Thickness**: For a thicker soup, allow the soup to simmer longer to reduce the broth slightly. For a lighter version, add more broth.
– **Make the Dumplings Light and Fluffy**: Be careful not to overmix the dumpling dough. Stir just until combined to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
– **Add Extra Vegetables**: If you like, feel free to add extra vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans to the soup for more flavor and texture.
– **Creamy Variation**: For a creamier version of the soup, you can add more **heavy cream** or even a bit of **cream cheese** to the broth.

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## **Why This Chicken & Dumplings Soup is a Winner**

Chicken and dumplings have long been known as a comforting dish, but when transformed into a soup, it becomes the perfect balance of hearty and comforting without being too heavy. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and soft, fluffy dumplings in a savory broth is enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover chicken, feed a crowd, or create a warming meal on a chilly day, this recipe will deliver. It’s also a dish that you can easily customize to fit your tastes—add more herbs, spices, or vegetables to make it your own!

Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead, **Chicken & Dumplings Soup** is bound to be a new go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So, grab your ingredients, whip up a pot, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like home.