Hearty & Healthy Vegan Chicken and Dumplings: The Ultimate Plant-Based Comfort Food Recipe

Few dishes evoke the warmth and nostalgia of home cooking quite like a classic bowl of chicken and dumplings. It’s the ultimate comfort food, a hearty and satisfying meal that has graced dinner tables for generations. Today, we’re taking this beloved traditional dish and giving it a delicious, wholesome, and entirely plant-based makeover. Get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food with our incredible Vegan Chicken and Dumplings recipe.

This recipe isn’t just about recreating a familiar taste; it’s about crafting a meal that is both incredibly healthy and bursting with flavor. Imagine tender, fluffy dumplings nestled in a rich, creamy, and savory broth, packed with vegetables and succulent plant-based “chicken.” And the best part? Despite its decadent taste, this Vegan Chicken and Dumplings dish is surprisingly light, making it a fantastic option for those looking for a Weight Watchers-friendly meal, with only 9 WW Points per serving.

The secret to our “chicken” lies in the clever use of soy curls. These amazing plant-based nuggets offer a remarkably similar texture and absorb flavors beautifully, making them an ideal substitute for chicken in this recipe. You can typically find soy curls in the health food aisle of most major grocery stores or online. To elevate their flavor, we’ve seasoned them with our homemade poultry spice mix, giving them that authentic, savory kick. For the dumplings, we’ve perfected an old-fashioned vegan dumpling dough that delivers the perfect balance of fluffiness and chewiness.

Why Our Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a Must-Try

If you’re wondering whether to dive into the comforting embrace of this vegan dish, here are compelling reasons why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

• Exceptional Health Benefits: Opting for vegan chicken and dumplings means you’re choosing a meal predominantly made with plant-based ingredients, which inherently offer a wealth of health advantages. By using soy curls instead of animal-based chicken, you significantly reduce the amount of dietary cholesterol and unhealthy fats in your meal. Soy curls are an excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and the abundance of fresh vegetables in our recipe ensures you get a generous dose of vital vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. This makes it a truly nourishing and guilt-free comfort food.
• Unbeatable Comfort Food Factor: There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of stew with fluffy dumplings. Our Vegan Chicken and Dumplings delivers on all fronts, providing that quintessential comfort food experience. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly winter day, a hearty pick-me-up after a long week, or simply a satisfying family meal. This recipe is designed to be straightforward to prepare, ensuring that even on busy evenings, you can whip up a warm and delightful dish that nourishes both body and soul.
• Culinary Variety and Versatility: Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, curious flexitarian, or simply looking to explore new culinary horizons, this recipe offers exciting variety. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors and textures to your palate without sacrificing the familiar comfort of a classic dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily customize it to your personal taste. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or add your favorite seasonal vegetables to create a unique combination that truly speaks to you.
• Sustainable and Ethical Choice: Beyond the health and taste benefits, choosing plant-based meals like this Vegan Chicken and Dumplings contributes to a more sustainable and ethical food system. Plant-based diets generally have a lower environmental impact, requiring fewer resources and producing less greenhouse gas emissions compared to meat-heavy diets. By enjoying this delicious recipe, you’re not only making a healthy choice for yourself but also a positive choice for the planet.

Embrace the warmth, savor the flavors, and feel good about what you’re eating. This Vegan Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a delightful journey into plant-based comfort food that you won’t want to miss!

Understanding the Key Ingredients: Crafting Your Vegan Masterpiece

The success of any great dish lies in its ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the stars of our Vegan Chicken and Dumplings:

The Magic of Soy Curls: Your Plant-Based “Chicken”

Soy curls are an incredible innovation in plant-based cooking. Made from non-GMO whole soybeans, they are simply cooked, textured, and dehydrated. What makes them so special is their fibrous, chewy texture that mimics shredded chicken remarkably well once rehydrated. They are also packed with protein and are naturally low in fat, making them a super healthy choice. Their neutral flavor profile allows them to readily absorb whatever seasonings you add, making them perfect for our poultry spice mix.

Our Signature Homemade Poultry Spice Mix

While store-bought poultry seasoning works in a pinch, creating your own blend allows for a fresher, more vibrant flavor that truly elevates the “chicken” component of this dish. Our homemade mix combines:

• 1/4 tsp dried ground sage: Earthy and aromatic, a classic poultry flavor.
• 1/2 tsp dried ground coriander seeds: Adds a warm, citrusy note.
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin seeds: Brings a subtle warmth and depth.
• 1/2 tsp dried ground marjoram: A delicate, slightly floral herb from the oregano family.
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper: For a touch of heat and pungency.
• 1/2 tsp dried ground bay leaf: Contributes a subtle, almost minty and slightly bitter undertone.
• A pinch of grated nutmeg: A warm, sweet spice that adds complexity.

This blend creates a sophisticated flavor profile that perfectly seasons the soy curls, fooling even the most discerning palates.

Building the Rich “Chicken” Soup Base

A truly comforting soup starts with a robust base. We build ours with a classic mirepoix (chopped carrots, celery, and spring onion) sautéed in olive oil, providing a foundational layer of aromatic sweetness. All-purpose flour helps thicken the broth to a delightful consistency, while vegan heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess without any dairy. Wild garlic leaves and fresh rosemary, though optional, infuse the soup with an herbaceous depth that elevates the entire dish. Don’t forget Himalayan salt and mixed peppercorns to perfectly balance the flavors.

The Star of the Show: Our Vegan Dumplings

Our dumplings are designed for a wonderful texture. We use a combination of semolina flour and all-purpose flour. Semolina, made from durum wheat, gives the dumplings a slightly firmer, chewier texture and a beautiful golden hue, complementing the tender soup perfectly. Baking powder is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy rise, while a touch of turmeric powder enhances the golden color and adds a subtle, earthy note. Olive oil and water bind everything together into a pliable dough that’s easy to work with.

Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Prep time: 10 min

Cooking time: 35 min

Total time: 45 min

Serves: 4

Ingredients for Your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings:

For the Vegan Chicken:

• 1 cup soy curls
• 1 tbsp poultry seasoning mix (see note below for homemade version)

Note: For a homemade poultry seasoning mix, combine 1/4 tsp of dried ground sage, 1/2 tsp of dried ground coriander seeds, 1/4 tsp of ground cumin seeds, 1/2 tsp of dried ground marjoram, 1/4 tsp of ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp of dried ground bay leaf, and a pinch of grated nutmeg.

For the Savory Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 spring onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 small celery root, peeled and chopped
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4-5 wild garlic leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup vegan heavy cream
• 1 sprig rosemary (optional)
• Himalayan salt and mixed peppercorns, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, roughly chopped

For the Fluffy Dumplings:

• 1 cup semolina flour
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Ground mixed peppercorns, to taste
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup water

How to Make Vegan Chicken and Dumplings (Step by Step):

1. Prepare the Soy Curls: Begin by rehydrating the soy curls. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water, allowing them to soak for approximately 10 minutes until softened. Once rehydrated, drain them thoroughly and gently rub your poultry spice mix onto them, ensuring they are evenly coated. This infuses them with rich flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over a medium flame. Once shimmering, add the chopped spring onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aromatic flavors.
3. Build the Soup Base: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute to remove any raw flour taste. Slowly pour in 4 cups of water, continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Add the optional wild garlic, vegan heavy cream, rosemary sprig, and chopped fresh parsley. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
4. Season the Soup: Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste the broth, then adjust the seasoning with Himalayan salt and freshly ground mixed peppercorns to your preference.
5. Prepare the Dumpling Dough: While the soup simmers, prepare your vegan dumpling dough. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the semolina flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground mixed peppercorns, and turmeric powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together. Pour in the olive oil and water.
6. Form and Add Dumplings: Stir the dumpling dough until all ingredients are well incorporated and a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Using an ice cream scoop (for uniform size) or a regular tablespoon, gently scoop portions of the dough and carefully drop them into the simmering soup. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pot.
7. Cook the Dumplings: Once all the dumplings are added, cover the pot with a lid. Let your soup continue to simmer, undisturbed, for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the dumplings to cook through and become light and fluffy.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, remove the rosemary sprig if used. Garnish your heartwarming soup generously with additional fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this incredible plant-based comfort food! Bon appétit!

Nutrition Facts:

(Optional ingredients are not included in this calculation)

Amount per 417 g = 1 serving | Calories: 460kcal | Carbohydrates: 46.3g | Protein: 39.4g | Fat: 3.4g | Saturated Fat: 14.9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 443mg | Potassium: 313mg | Fiber: 5.8g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin C: 5.7mg | Calcium: 143mg | Iron: 7.5mg

Vegan Chicken and Dumplings Variations & Substitutions to Explore

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt and customize recipes to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fantastic variations and substitutions for your Vegan Chicken and Dumplings:

• Alternative Plant-Based “Chicken” Options: While soy curls are our top recommendation for their texture, several other plant-based alternatives work wonderfully. You can use firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and then cut into bite-sized pieces before seasoning and adding to the soup. Tempeh, a fermented soybean cake, can also be crumbled or diced and browned for a hearty addition. Seitan, often called wheat meat, offers a very meaty texture, making it another excellent choice. If you prefer a whole-food approach, a variety of mushrooms (like shiitake, portobello, or cremini) can add a rich, umami depth and a pleasant chewy texture when sautéed before being added to the soup.
• Spice Up Your “Chicken”: Our homemade poultry spice mix is a fantastic starting point, but don’t hesitate to experiment! For an extra aromatic kick, try incorporating dried basil, thyme, or oregano. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, while smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke can impart a delicious smoky flavor to your vegan chicken, adding another layer of complexity. Feel free to adjust the ratios of the homemade mix to highlight your favorite spices.
• Dumpling Dough Innovations: This recipe uses semolina flour for its unique texture, but you can certainly experiment with the flour blend. If you prefer an all-purpose flour dumpling, simply swap the semolina for additional all-purpose flour. The texture will be softer. We encourage you to share your results in the comments if you try this! For a richer dough, replace the water with your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) and use vegan butter instead of olive oil for a more traditional, buttery flavor profile. For a gluten-free version, experiment with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking, which typically includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Vegetable Enhancements: While carrots, celery, and onion form a classic base, feel free to toss in other vegetables. Peas, corn, green beans, or diced potatoes can all make wonderful additions, adding more nutrients and texture. Adding leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking can also boost the nutritional value and fresh flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

Achieving a truly outstanding bowl of Vegan Chicken and Dumplings is easy with a few insider tips:

Selecting the Ideal Vegan Chicken Substitute: The key to a satisfying vegan version of this dish lies in the texture of your protein. While soy curls are fantastic for their resemblance to shredded chicken, ensure they are fully rehydrated and thoroughly seasoned. If using tofu or tempeh, press out excess water before dicing and lightly browning for a firmer texture. Seitan can be cut into strips or cubes. Whichever you choose, ensure it’s a substitute that will hold its shape and absorb the delicious broth flavors without becoming mushy.

Maximizing Vegetable Flavor and Nutrition: Don’t skimp on the vegetables! They are not only crucial for nutrients but also build incredible depth of flavor and texture. Sautéing your aromatic vegetables (onions, carrots, celery) until tender before adding liquid is essential for developing a rich, savory base. Consider adding additional vegetables like green peas, sweet corn, diced potatoes, or even sliced bell peppers for more color and nutritional boost. You can also add a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers for an extra layer of savory aroma.

Crafting Light and Fluffy Dumplings: The secret to fluffy dumplings is in the baking powder, which reacts with the liquid to create air pockets. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can develop the gluten too much, leading to tough dumplings. Mix just until combined. When dropping them into the simmering soup, ensure the soup is at a steady, gentle simmer – not a rolling boil – to allow them to cook evenly and absorb moisture without disintegrating. Covering the pot is vital, as it traps the steam, ensuring the dumplings cook through from all sides.

Serving Your Comfort Food Creation: Vegan Chicken and Dumplings is best enjoyed piping hot and fresh off the stove. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, garnish generously with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of fresh dill just before serving. A swirl of extra vegan heavy cream or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious broth or a light green salad to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating Advice

Leftovers of this dish are usually just as delicious! Store any cooled Vegan Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. The dumplings might absorb more liquid and become softer upon reheating, but they will still be flavorful. Freezing is also an option; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can! For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy curls are gluten-free (most are, but always check the label). For the dumplings, substitute the semolina and all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for blends that are specifically designed for baking and often contain xanthan gum to help with structure. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly as gluten-free flours can absorb liquids differently.

Is it possible to prepare this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! While this recipe is optimized for stovetop cooking, a slow cooker can make it even more hands-off. You would typically sauté the vegetables first on the stovetop (if your slow cooker doesn’t have a sauté function), then combine all soup ingredients (except dumplings and vegan cream) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add the rehydrated and seasoned soy curls about 30-60 minutes before serving. Add the dumpling dough and vegan cream in the last 30 minutes, ensuring the dumplings cook through.

How can I add more spice to the soup?

If you prefer a spicier kick, you have several options! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices when seasoning the soy curls, or directly into the soup base. A dash of cayenne pepper or a small amount of finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper can also introduce a wonderful heat. Taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spice.

What if I don’t have soy curls?

No problem! As mentioned in our variations section, you can use other plant-based proteins. Pressed and cubed tofu, crumbled tempeh, or seitan pieces are all great alternatives. If you’re looking for a whole-food option, various mushrooms (shiitake, portobello) can provide a wonderful meaty texture and savory flavor.

We hope these tips and FAQs help you create the most delicious and comforting Vegan Chicken and Dumplings!

Related Recipes for More Plant-Based Delights:

• The Best Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
• Vegan Chicken Nuggets

And if you are looking for more delicious plant-based meals check out these 25 amazing silken tofu recipes.