There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup to soothe the soul, and this vegan version captures all the comforting flavors without any animal products. Tender vegetables and hearty vegan chicken pieces swim in a savory broth, topped with fluffy parsley-infused dumplings that melt in your mouth. This plant-based twist on a classic favorite is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something filling yet nourishing. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it an excellent addition to your weekly meal rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups shredded vegan chicken or chickpeas
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add frozen peas and shredded vegan chicken or chickpeas to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped parsley. Pour in plant-based milk and olive oil; stir until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
A Comforting Classic with a Plant-Based Twist
Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a beloved comfort food, traditionally made with tender chicken pieces, a rich and savory broth, and fluffy dumplings. This dish has deep roots in Southern and Midwestern cuisine in the United States, where it has been a staple of home-cooked meals for generations. However, similar versions exist worldwide, including European variations like German Knödel soups and Eastern European dumpling stews. By swapping out traditional chicken for plant-based alternatives and using dairy-free dumplings, this vegan version maintains the rich flavors and satisfying textures of the classic dish while making it healthier and cruelty-free.
Why This Recipe is the Best Vegan Comfort Food
This Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup stands out because:
- It’s Hearty and Satisfying – The thick, flavorful broth combined with the soft, pillowy dumplings makes every spoonful pure comfort.
- It’s 100% Plant-Based – No animal products, yet it delivers the same depth of flavor as traditional chicken and dumpling soup.
- It’s Packed with Nutrients – With fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas (or vegan chicken), and fiber-packed dumplings, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- It’s Budget-Friendly – Simple pantry staples come together to make a filling meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family without breaking the bank.
- It’s Easy to Make in One Pot – Minimal dishes, less cleanup, and maximum flavor. What’s not to love?
- It’s Perfect for All Seasons – Whether you need a cozy winter meal or a nourishing pick-me-up in cooler weather, this soup is a great option.
Health Benefits of Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup
This plant-based version of chicken and dumpling soup isn’t just comforting—it’s also packed with health benefits. Let’s take a look at why this dish is a smart choice:
High in Fiber
- Thanks to the vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins, this soup is an excellent source of fiber. Fiber aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full longer.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
- This soup is loaded with vitamin C (from carrots and celery), vitamin K (from parsley), and B vitamins (from chickpeas or vegan chicken substitutes), all of which support overall health, immune function, and energy production.
Lower in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol-Free
- Traditional chicken soup contains animal fats that can contribute to high cholesterol levels, but this plant-based version is naturally cholesterol-free and lower in saturated fats.
Heart-Healthy Ingredients
- Olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs add anti-inflammatory benefits and promote heart health. Plus, replacing animal-based proteins with plant-based ones has been linked to reduced risks of heart disease.
A Great Source of Plant-Based Protein
- Using chickpeas or vegan chicken substitutes ensures that this dish provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
Ingredient Breakdown & Their Benefits
- Olive Oil – A heart-healthy fat that enhances flavor.
- Onions & Garlic – Antioxidant-rich ingredients that boost immunity.
- Carrots & Celery – Classic soup vegetables loaded with fiber and vitamins.
- Vegetable Broth – Provides a rich base full of minerals and flavor.
- Chickpeas or Vegan Chicken – Plant-based proteins that make the soup filling and nutritious.
- Dried Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary) – These add an earthy, savory flavor while offering anti-inflammatory properties.
- Bay Leaf – A small but mighty ingredient that enhances the depth of the broth.
- Dumplings (Flour, Baking Powder, Plant Milk, Olive Oil) – Soft, fluffy, and deliciously satisfying.
How to Customize This Recipe
One of the best things about this soup is its versatility! Here are a few ways you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences:
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings.
- Add More Vegetables: Mushrooms, zucchini, leeks, or kale can all enhance the flavor and texture.
- Switch Up the Protein: Try lentils, tofu, or seitan as an alternative to chickpeas or vegan chicken.
- Give it a Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra warmth.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a bit of coconut milk or cashew cream for a richer broth.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup
- Sauté the Vegetables Well – Let the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery cook until slightly caramelized. This adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- Use High-Quality Broth – A good vegetable broth makes all the difference. If using store-bought, opt for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt level.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Batter – Overmixing can make the dumplings dense instead of light and fluffy. Stir the batter just until combined.
- Let the Dumplings Steam Properly – Cover the pot while the dumplings cook to ensure they steam through and become pillowy.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings – Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Side Salad – A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables – Serve with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or asparagus.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerating
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Dumplings tend to absorb broth over time, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.
Freezing
- The soup without dumplings freezes well for up to 3 months.
- If making in advance, freeze the broth and vegetables separately and make fresh dumplings when ready to serve.
Reheating
- Warm up on the stovetop over medium heat, adding extra broth if necessary.
- Microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a hearty, nostalgic, and incredibly delicious plant-based meal, this Vegan Chicken and Dumpling Soup is a must-try. It brings all the warmth and coziness of the classic dish without any animal products, making it perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone wanting a healthier comfort food option. Whether you’re making this soup for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or seeking a soul-warming dish on a chilly evening, this recipe will not disappoint. It’s proof that comfort food can be both nourishing and cruelty-free!
