As I stirred the pot, the warm aroma enveloped me like a comforting blanket on a chilly evening. This Vegan Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a quick solution for those nights when you crave a hearty meal but want to keep things plant-based. In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a creamy, savory broth filled with fluffy dumplings and satisfying soy curls, promising a cozy dining experience that rivals traditional comfort food. Plus, the integrity of the dish shines through with its oil-free, dairy-free ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Ready to bring a taste of home to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe!
Why is this Vegan Comfort Food a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying dish, making it perfect for busy weekday dinners without compromising on taste.
Flavorful Broth: The savory blend of vegan chicken broth and aromatic herbs creates a rich, comforting flavor that warms every bite.
Fluffy Dumplings: Achieve soft, fluffy dumplings that are surprisingly easy to make, bringing that classic comfort to your table without the fuss.
Versatile Protein Options: Enjoy the freedom to substitute soy curls with other proteins like jackfruit or chickpeas for a twist that suits your palate.
Health-Conscious Choice: With its oil-free and dairy-free ingredients, this recipe not only tastes great but supports your health goals too. Perfect for anyone looking to embrace a wholesome lifestyle!
Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Soy Curls – This is the vegan chicken of the dish; can substitute with seitan or chickpeas for different textures.
• Vegan Chicken Broth – Adds a rich flavor that makes the dish comforting; consider using Better Than Bouillon No Chicken Base for a robust taste.
• Vegan Butter – Provides a rich, thick base; use olive oil or broth for an oil-free version.
• Onion – Brings aromatic sweetness; yellow or sweet onions are recommended for best results.
• Carrots – Adds natural sweetness; they give the dish lovely color and texture.
• Celery – Enhances flavor and texture; a must for a classic savory profile.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic packs a bold punch; avoid jarred for maximum flavor impact.
For the Dumplings
• All-Purpose Flour – The main ingredient that thickens the soup; swap for rice flour if you need a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Essential for fluffy dumplings; ensure it’s aluminum-free for the best taste.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your dietary needs.
• Dried Thyme – Provides an earthy note that complements the dish beautifully; can be adjusted to taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; feel free to adjust to your preference.
• Coconut Milk – Introduces creaminess to the broth; alternatives include cashew cream or other thick non-dairy milks.
Adding these Vegan Chicken and Dumplings ingredients to your kitchen will set you up for a delightful cooking experience that’s both nourishing and delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Rehydrate Soy Curls
Start by combining soy curls with vegan chicken broth in a large bowl. Allow them to soak for about 10 minutes, or until they soften and plump up. This step is crucial as it infuses flavor into the soy curls, which will mimic the texture of chicken in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of vegan butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add diced onions, diced celery, and chopped carrots, and sauté for approximately 3 minutes until they become tender and aromatic. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, laying the flavorful base for your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 3: Thicken Soup
Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour while stirring continuously for about 30-40 seconds to coat the vegetables. Gradually pour in vegan chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This thickens the soup, creating a rich and hearty broth for the Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 4: Make Dumpling Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Create a well in the center and add 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of coconut milk. Mix until a cohesive dough forms, which will create fluffy dumplings in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Stir the rehydrated soy curls into the simmering soup mixture. Using a spoon, scoop dollops of the dumpling dough into the pot, covering them with the broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, ensuring a comforting texture in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once cooked, stir in an additional 1/2 cup of coconut milk for extra creaminess. Allow the Vegan Chicken and Dumplings to simmer for a couple more minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm, allowing the delicious aroma and flavors to envelop you as you savor this hearty dish.
What to Serve with Vegan Chicken and Dumplings
Nothing completes a cozy dinner like a carefully curated ensemble of side dishes that complement each warm, creamy bite.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a fresh loaf of crusty bread adds a delightful crunch to your meal, soaking up all that luscious broth.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dumplings, providing a refreshing contrast that awakens the palate.
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Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt offer a crunchy, nutritious side that keeps the meal vibrant and healthy.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy side brings a burst of freshness, contrasting beautifully with the creamy texture of the dumplings.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy vegan mashed potatoes can elevate the comfort factor, providing a smooth, buttery side that’s simply irresistible.
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Herbed Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa dish enriched with herbs offers a nutty flavor and fluffy texture, enhancing the meal while keeping it wholesome and hearty.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like chilled lemonade or iced tea cleanse the palate, making each bite more enjoyable and leaving you cozy and satisfied.
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Vegan Chocolate Cake: Conclude your meal on a sweet note with vegan chocolate cake; its rich, decadent flavor pairs perfectly with the comforting dish, creating a delightful end to your dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the flavorful broth and sautéed vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to preserve their taste and aroma. Additionally, you can make the dumpling dough ahead of time; just keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped components in a pot, bring the broth to a gentle simmer, and scoop the dumpling dough into the pot. This way, you’ll have a delightful, comforting meal ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Vegan Chicken and Dumplings
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Perfect Dumplings: Fluffy dumplings are key! Ensure your baking powder is fresh and aluminum-free to achieve that light, airy texture.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the dumplings while they simmer. Overcooking can lead to a dense, gummy texture; they should be soft and fluffy.
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Flavor Infusion: Let the soy curls soak long enough in the vegan chicken broth; this step is crucial for enhancing their flavor and ensuring they complement your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings beautifully.
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Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much during cooking, simply add a bit more vegan chicken broth or coconut milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices! A little more thyme or black pepper can elevate the entire dish, making your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings uniquely yours.
Storage Tips for Vegan Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For best texture, keep dumplings separate from the broth until you’re ready to reheat.
Freezer: This dish freezes well. Place the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, and it will last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding extra broth or non-dairy milk as needed to maintain creaminess.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and preserve delicious flavors.
Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or rice flour for delicious dumplings that everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the broth for a warming kick that balances the creaminess of the soup. This adds an exciting depth without overpowering the dish.
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Chickpeas: Swap out soy curls for chickpeas for an added texture twist. They lend their nutty flavor to the dish while still keeping it hearty and filling.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, which can brighten up the dish. These aromatic additions will elevate the overall flavor profile beautifully.
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Creamy Alternatives: If coconut milk isn’t your favorite, try using thick cashew cream for an equally creamy result without the coconut flavor. It blends seamlessly and enriches the broth.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some kale or spinach just before serving for an extra serving of greens or try adding frozen peas towards the end to keep things colorful and nutritious.
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Lentil Dumplings: For a protein boost, mix cooked lentils into the dumpling dough. The added texture will surprise your palate and provide an even heartier dish.
Adding these variations can make your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings even more delightful and personalized—your family will love the possibilities! If you’re intrigued by different protein sources, check out our guide to incredible plant-based proteins.
Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my soy curls are fresh and ready to use?
Absolutely! When selecting soy curls, look for a package that is clean and sealed. Once you rehydrate them, they should become soft and plump. If they have a strange smell or color, it’s best to discard them and get a fresh batch.
What’s the best way to store leftover Vegan Chicken and Dumplings?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, keep the dumplings separate from the broth until you’re ready to reheat them.
Can I freeze Vegan Chicken and Dumplings? If so, how?
Of course! This dish freezes well. Place the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving enough space for expansion, and it can last up to 2 months. Make sure to label your container with the date. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my dumplings turn out dense or gummy?
Oh no! If you find that your dumplings are dense, it could be due to overcooking or too much flour. To remedy this, consider checking your baking powder’s freshness—it should be light and airy. When simmering, aim for 15-20 minutes max, and make sure the lid is on to retain steam.
Can pets eat any of the ingredients in this Vegan Chicken and Dumplings recipe?
While most ingredients are plant-based and safe for pets, onions and garlic can be harmful to them in large quantities. It’s best to keep this comforting dish out of their reach and stick to pet-safe foods for your furry friends.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains gluten (from all-purpose flour) and soy (from soy curls). To make it gluten-free, simply substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings, and opt for chickpeas or jackfruit as alternative protein sources.
Vegan Chicken and Dumplings: Cozy Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rehydrate soy curls in vegan chicken broth for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in melted vegan butter for 3 minutes until tender, then add garlic for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour while stirring for 30-40 seconds, then gradually add broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Mix together dumpling ingredients in a separate bowl, then create a well and add water and coconut milk.
- Combine rehydrated soy curls with soup, then scoop dumpling dough into the pot, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in additional coconut milk, simmer briefly, then serve warm.
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