Homemade Chicken Soup with Cheese Dumplings: A Comforting Classic

This heartwarming recipe combines the nourishing goodness of traditional chicken soup with delightful cheese dumplings, creating a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. The clear, flavorful broth paired with tender chicken and pillowy cheese dumplings makes this soup an irresistible weekly staple.

Prep Time & Duration

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 bowls (3L pot)

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 300g (2 pieces) chicken fillet
• 450g (3 medium) potatoes
• 1 large carrot
• 1 medium onion
• Fresh dill sprigs
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• Ground black pepper to taste
• 2.5L water

For the Cheese Dumplings

• 100g semi-hard cheese, grated
• 20g butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 100g all-purpose flour
• 2-3 sprigs fresh dill, finely chopped
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preparing the Soup Base

1. Fill a 3L pot with water and bring to a boil.
2. Add whole chicken fillets and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Remove any foam that forms on the surface.
4. While the chicken cooks:

• Peel and dice potatoes into medium cubes
• Finely dice the carrot
• Chop the onion

1. After 15 minutes, remove chicken and cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Return chicken to pot and add vegetables.

Making the Cheese Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Grated cheese
• Softened butter
• Egg
• Chopped dill
• Pinch of salt

1. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Roll small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) into balls.

Final Assembly

1. Once potatoes are nearly tender (about 15-20 minutes):
2. Add cheese dumplings one by one to the simmering soup.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes until dumplings float.
4. Add:

• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh dill

1. Simmer for additional 2-3 minutes.

Professional Tips

• Ensure soup is gently simmering when adding dumplings to prevent them from breaking apart
• Don’t overcrowd the pot with dumplings
• Test dumpling doneness by cutting one in half – it should be cooked through
• For extra flavor, add a small parmesan rind while cooking

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 380mg

Storage & Reheating

• Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
• Dumplings may absorb more liquid during storage; add hot broth when reheating if needed

Recipe Variations

• Use turkey breast instead of chicken
• Add celery for extra flavor
• Include parsley along with dill
• Try different cheese combinations in dumplings
• Add garlic for extra depth

Common Questions

1. Can I freeze this soup?

• Freeze broth and chicken separately from dumplings
• Make fresh dumplings when reheating

1. Can I make the dumplings ahead?

• Prepare dough up to 2 hours ahead
• Keep refrigerated until ready to use

This soup combines the best of both worlds: a nourishing chicken soup and comforting cheese dumplings. The clear broth is light yet satisfying, while the cheese dumplings add a rich, indulgent element that transforms this from a simple soup into a memorable meal. Perfect for cold days, sick days, or any day when you need a bowl of comfort.