Chicken Liver Dumpling Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever had a craving for something nourishing, satisfying, and hearty, Chicken Liver Dumpling Soup should be on your radar. It’s a dish that brings together the earthy richness of chicken livers and the comforting softness of dumplings. Often overlooked in favor of more mainstream options like chicken noodle or beef stew, this recipe offers a delightful alternative that packs both flavor and nutrition. What’s even better? It’s easy to make and can be customized to your preferences. The heartiness of the soup paired with the tender dumplings makes every spoonful a burst of comfort.

But why choose chicken livers? Aside from being budget-friendly, they’re loaded with vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin A, and folate-making this dish not just tasty but also nutritious. And the dumplings? Well, they soak up all the delicious broth, adding to the richness and texture of the soup.

Chicken Liver Dumpling Soup Recipe

Here’s a simple, delicious recipe to make Chicken Liver Dumpling Soup at home. Whether you’re a fan of offal or just looking to try something new, this dish will surely elevate your soup game.

Ingredients Needed

For the soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade for richer flavor)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh, if you prefer)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb chicken livers, trimmed and chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (for richness)

For the dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 large egg

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Soup Base

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté them until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a savory base for your soup.
   • Add the chicken broth to the pot, followed by the thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, bringing it to a simmer.

2. Cook The Chicken Livers

   • While the broth is simmering, heat a small skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the chopped chicken livers and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re browned but still tender. Don’t overcook them, as they’ll become tough. Once done, chop them into smaller pieces if you haven’t already.
   • Add the cooked livers to the simmering broth along with the soy sauce and heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Let it simmer gently while you make the dumplings.

3. Make The Dumplings

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and stir it in.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently to form a dough. Don’t overwork it-just stir until everything comes together.

4. Cook The Dumplings

   • Spoon the dumpling batter into the simmering soup, making small mounds of dough directly into the broth. Cover the pot with a lid, and let the dumplings cook for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve expanded and become firm to the touch.

5. Final Touches

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf and discard it. If you want a smoother broth, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before serving.

6. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. The dumplings will have absorbed some of the rich broth, and the whole dish will have a beautiful balance of textures-soft, velvety dumplings in a savory, flavorful soup with tender chicken livers.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken Livers: Often considered a “superfood”, chicken livers are a powerhouse of nutrients. They’re packed with protein, iron, and vitamins A and B12. These nutrients are great for energy, immune function, and overall health. Plus, their rich flavor really adds depth to the soup.
• Dumplings: The dumplings are a classic comfort food addition to any soup. The combination of flour, butter, and eggs gives them a fluffy, pillowy texture that soaks up the savory broth, adding a satisfying element to the dish.
• Thyme & Bay Leaf: These two herbs are staples in many soups and stews because they infuse the broth with subtle, earthy flavors. Thyme pairs beautifully with the richness of the livers, while bay leaves add a hint of spice and depth.
• Heavy Cream & Soy Sauce: The cream adds a velvety richness, while the soy sauce introduces umami and balances the dish with a savory kick. Both ingredients elevate the overall flavor profile.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the chicken livers: They can turn rubbery if cooked too long. Keep an eye on them as they cook-just a few minutes on each side in a hot skillet is all it takes to bring out their flavor.
• Dumpling consistency: If your dumpling dough is too wet, add a little more flour until it thickens. If it’s too dry, add a splash more milk. The dough should be sticky but not too runny.
• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the soup and dumplings a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop overnight. Just reheat the soup gently and cook the dumplings fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Use homemade broth: If you can, make your own chicken broth. It’s simple to do and will give the soup a much richer flavor than store-bought versions. Plus, you can control the seasoning better!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken livers for mushrooms to create a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth and skip the heavy cream for a lighter version, or add a bit of coconut milk for richness.
• Herb variations: While thyme and bay leaf are classic, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano. Fresh parsley or chives can also be sprinkled on top as a garnish for extra freshness.
• Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, adding a small chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne can elevate the soup and bring a subtle spicy undertone that complements the richness of the livers.
• Whole Wheat Dumplings: For a healthier twist, swap out regular flour for whole wheat flour in your dumplings. They’ll add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish.

Final Words

Chicken Liver Dumpling Soup is one of those meals that truly brings people together. It’s hearty, nourishing, and full of layers of flavors. Whether you’re a liver lover or trying it for the first time, this dish promises to be an unforgettable addition to your recipe collection. It’s not just about the chicken livers or the dumplings, though; it’s about the entire experience of savoring a homemade soup that’s as satisfying as it is comforting.