Name: Cozy Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Soy curls (Substitute with seitan or chickpeas if needed); 4 cups Vegan chicken broth (Rehydrate soy curls for better taste); 2 tablespoons Vegan butter (Olive oil or broth works for oil-free); 1 medium Onion (Yellow or sweet onions are best); 2 medium Carrots; 2 stalks Celery; 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor); 2 cups All-purpose flour (Use gluten-free flour for alternative); 1 tablespoon Baking powder (Ensure it's aluminum-free); 1 teaspoon Dried thyme; 1 teaspoon Black pepper; 1 can Canned full-fat coconut milk (Substitute with cashew cream if desired); 1 cup Room temperature or warm water

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a warm stew filling my kitchen on a rainy day. As I stirred together the creamy Vegan Chicken and Dumplings, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me, reminding me of cozy family dinners. This recipe isn’t just any comfort food; it’s a delightful twist on the classic, boasting giant fluffy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those evenings when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With its plant-based goodness and oil-free approach, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but is also a guilt-free pleasure. Curious how to create this cozy bowl of joy? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Vegan Chicken Dumplings a Must-Try?

Comforting Flavors: This Vegan Chicken and Dumplings dish captures all the rich, hearty tastes you love, making it a perfect alternative for those rainy days.

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal solution for busy weeknight dinners.

Health-Conscious: Packed with plant-based protein from soy curls, this recipe is guilt-free, yet wholly satisfying.

Fluffy Dumplings: The giant, fluffy dumplings melt in your mouth, bringing a delightful twist to traditional recipes.

Endless Varieties: Feeling adventurous? Swap in jackfruit or add vibrant veggies like peas and corn for extra nutrition!

And if you enjoy other comforting options, don’t miss out on our delicious Chicken Pot Pie or the flavorful Flavor Packed Sandwich!

Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

For the Stew
• Soy curls – A great protein source, providing a chewy texture reminiscent of chicken; substitute with seitan or chickpeas if needed.
• Vegan chicken broth – Adds depth of flavor; rehydrate soy curls for better taste; you can also use vegetable broth with poultry seasoning.
• Vegan butter – Creates a rich, creamy base; olive oil or broth works well for an oil-free option.
• Onion – Provides aromatic flavor and sweetness; yellow or sweet onions are best for this.
• Carrots and celery – Contribute sweetness and crunch, making your stew more vibrant.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor; avoid jarred garlic for the best taste.

For the Dumplings
• All-purpose flour – Thickens the soup and provides structure to the dumplings; use gluten-free flour for a suitable alternative.
• Baking powder – Ensures fluffy dumplings; make sure it’s aluminum-free for a cleaner taste.
• Dried thyme and black pepper – Season to enhance the flavor of both stew and dumplings.
• Canned full-fat coconut milk – Adds creaminess to the soup; substitute with cashew cream or non-dairy milk if desired.
• Room temperature or warm water – Essential for mixing the dumpling dough correctly.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Rehydrate the Soy Curls
In a bowl, combine soy curls with vegan chicken broth and let them soak for about 10 minutes, or until they become tender and chewy. This step is crucial for infusing the soy curls with flavor, mimicking the texture and taste of chicken in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt vegan butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 3 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring the garlic becomes aromatic without burning, which will elevate the soup’s flavor profile.

Step 3: Add Flour and Seasonings
Sprinkle in all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until it’s well incorporated and absorbs the moisture. Add dried thyme and black pepper to the pot, then pour in the remaining vegan chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. This thickens the base of your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings, enhancing its creamy texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt to combine. Create a well in the center and pour in warm water and coconut milk, mixing until you form a cohesive dough. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky texture—this will ensure your dumplings turn out fluffy and melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 5: Combine the Soy Curls
Once the soup base is simmering, add your rehydrated soy curls into the pot. Reduce the heat to low, letting it gently simmer for a minute or two. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings, making every bite a rich experience.

Step 6: Scoop in the Dumplings
Using a cookie scoop, gently drop dollops of dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Make sure they’re spaced out evenly, then cover the pot and let them cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Occasional ladling of broth over the dumplings will help ensure they stay moist and fluffy while cooking.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once the dumplings are firm and cooked through, stir in the creamy canned coconut milk to enrich the soup. Let it warm through for a couple more minutes before serving hot. Your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings are now ready to be enjoyed—a heartwarming bowl of comfort perfect for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

Perfect Dumpling Consistency: Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough. If it’s too dry, add a little more water for fluffier dumplings in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Avoid Gummy Dumplings: Keep a strong simmer, not a rolling boil, to prevent the dumplings from becoming tough. Slow and steady wins the texture race!
Flavorful Soy Curls: Make sure to fully hydrate soy curls in vegan chicken broth. This extra step significantly enhances the flavor and mimics the texture of chicken.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Space the dumplings out when scooping them in. Too close together can cause them to stick and not cook evenly.
Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, reheat gently over low heat to maintain the dumpling texture—microwaving can often make them chewy.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the stew base (soy curls, sautéed vegetables, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For the dumplings, mix the dry ingredients and store them in a separate bowl; combine with wet ingredients just before cooking to keep them fluffy. When ready to serve, reheat the stew on the stovetop until warmed through, then scoop in your dumplings and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked. This approach not only saves time but ensures that your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings remain just as delicious and comforting!

What to Serve with Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

There’s something truly special about creating a complete meal around a cozy, comforting dish like this one.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy broth, crusty bread offers a delightful crunch that pairs harmoniously with the soft dumplings.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the rich, hearty stew, adding a burst of freshness to your meal.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crunchy, steamed green beans add a pop of color and nutrition, complementing the creamy texture of the Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide an extra layer of comfort and richness, making for a satisfyingly hearty meal that warms the belly.
Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted vegetables can bring out a sweet caramelization, adding a wonderful flavor depth that complements the softness of the dumplings.
Herbal Iced Tea: For a refreshing drink, herbal iced tea infused with lemon or mint provides a cool respite alongside the warm stew, balancing your meal perfectly.
Vegan Chocolate Mousse: To finish, a rich and airy vegan chocolate mousse serves as a delightful dessert, rounding out the meal with a touch of indulgence.
Coconut Sorbet: Alternatively, a scoop of coconut sorbet offers a light and refreshing sweet treat, cleansing your palate after the hearty stew.

Storage Tips for Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftover Vegan Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keeping the dumplings separate from the broth can help maintain their fluffy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the broth and dumplings separately to keep the dumplings from becoming mushy.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens up too much.

Note: While the flavors can deepen over time, be mindful that dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, so freezing ideally should be done without them included.

Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to embrace creativity and make this comforting dish your own with these tasty twists!

Jackfruit Swap: Replace soy curls with jackfruit for a unique, pulled texture. This tropical fruit adds an exciting twist!
Extra Veggies: Toss in frozen peas or sweet corn to enhance the nutritional value and add a pop of color.
Whole Wheat Flour: Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose makes the dumplings healthier, adding fiber to every comforting bite.
Coconut Free: Swap full-fat coconut milk for cashew cream or a thick non-dairy milk if you’re looking for a lighter version.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the soup for a gentle kick of heat that awakens the flavors.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of dried thyme for a fresh, aromatic boost.
Cheesy Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. It adds depth to your vegan stew.
Savory Stuffing: Want to take this dish further? You could replace dumplings with vegan biscuit dough or even Tandoori Chicken Naan for an enhanced experience!

Each variation is not just a swap; they’re new pathways to flavor that make every dish feel fresh. And don’t forget to explore other cozy recipes like Peruvian Chicken Aji or a warm Mushroom Chicken Cozy to continue your culinary adventure!

Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my soy curls are ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting soy curls, look for ones that are light in color and have a chewy texture. If they’re overly dark or have an off-putting smell, it’s best to avoid them. To prepare, simply rehydrate them in warm vegan chicken broth for about 10 minutes before using them in your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings.

What is the best way to store leftover Vegan Chicken and Dumplings?
Very! To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Remember to separate the dumplings from the broth to maintain their fluffy texture. When you’re ready to reheat, a gentle warm up on the stovetop is best to keep everything delicious!

Can I freeze Vegan Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! For proper freezing, store the soup and dumplings separately to prevent them from becoming mushy. You can freeze the broth for up to 2 months, while dumplings can become too soggy if frozen in the liquid. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What if my dumplings are too gummy?
Don’t stress! If your dumplings become gummy, it might be due to boiling them too vigorously. To fix this, make sure to maintain a strong simmer rather than a rolling boil. If you’re trying to salvage already cooked dumplings, you can try adding a splash of broth and simmering on low heat for a few minutes to soften them again.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely! If you have pets, it’s important to avoid giving them any leftovers that contain onions or garlic, as these can be toxic to cats and dogs. Additionally, for those with gluten allergies, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this Vegan Chicken and Dumplings recipe safe and enjoyable!