Vegetarian Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for Cozy Meals

When the weather turns chilly and your craving for comfort food kicks in, few dishes hit the spot quite like chicken and dumplings. But what if you’re vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy a meat-free version of this classic?

This vegetarian chicken and dumplings recipe offers all the warm, hearty flavors you love without any actual chicken. Using tender plant-based chicken substitutes and a rich, savory broth, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.

Plus, the fluffy dumplings add that perfect touch of coziness, making it a great meal for family dinners or to impress guests. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just experimenting, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a staple in your comfort food repertoire.

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step, share tips for the best results, and even suggest some delicious variations. Let’s dive in and create a bowl of pure comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian take on chicken and dumplings is packed with flavor, texture, and heartiness, all without any meat. The use of plant-based “chicken” pieces ensures you get that familiar bite and protein boost, while the vegetable broth and herbs create a rich, aromatic base.

What sets this recipe apart is how easy it is to make from scratch, with dumplings that turn out fluffy and tender every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables or dumpling styles.

If you love comfort food but want to keep things light and vegetarian-friendly, this dish is a winner.

Also, if you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out other vegetarian and vegan comfort dishes like Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and Recipe Vegetarian Chopped Liver Made Easy and Delicious for more inspiration.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle
• Slotted spoon (optional, for removing dumplings)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic finely.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
3. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add plant-based chicken and broth: Add the plant-based chicken pieces to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Season the broth: Add 1 teaspoon of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Reduce heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Make the dumpling dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the plant-based milk and melted plant-based butter (if using). Stir until just combined; do not overmix. The dough should be sticky but hold together.
7. Add dumplings to the simmering broth: Using a spoon or your hands, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth. Make sure the broth is at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to prevent the dumplings from falling apart.
8. Cook the dumplings: Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid. They should puff up and become firm to the touch.
9. Check and finish: Once dumplings are cooked, stir gently to mix everything. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Serve warm: Ladle the vegetarian chicken and dumplings into bowls and enjoy immediately. The broth should be rich and comforting, with tender dumplings and flavorful plant-based chicken pieces.

Tips & Variations

“For extra richness, try adding a splash of plant-based cream or coconut milk to the broth before adding the dumplings.”

Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings and ensure your plant-based chicken substitute is gluten-free.

Vegetable add-ins: Feel free to toss in some green beans, peas, or mushrooms to add more texture and nutrients. Add these along with the broth so they cook through.

Herb variations: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a slightly different herbal note. Fresh herbs always brighten the dish.

Dumpling texture: For lighter dumplings, you can gently fold in some whipped aquafaba or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) into the dough.

Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade is another great option if you want to make soft dumpling wraps to accompany this dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chicken and dumplings recipe is a stand-alone comfort meal, but you can elevate it with some thoughtful sides and accompaniments.

• Serve with a fresh garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Warm crusty bread or Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves is perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle some nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan on top before serving.
• Pair it with a light white wine or a sparkling herbal tea for a cozy meal experience.

Conclusion

This vegetarian chicken and dumplings recipe proves that you don’t need meat to enjoy a rich, comforting classic. The plant-based chicken pieces combined with hearty vegetables and fluffy dumplings deliver a satisfying meal that warms the soul.

It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a bowl of cozy goodness.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can customize this dish to your liking and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and veggies to keep it fresh and exciting.

And if you’re looking to expand your plant-based cooking repertoire, explore other delicious recipes like Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor or Vegan Halloween Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and may every spoonful bring you warmth and joy!

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