Chicken Corn Soup With Rivels Recipe

There’s something comforting about a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it’s hearty and warm. Chicken corn soup with rivels brings the perfect blend of savory chicken, sweet corn, and soft, pillowy dumplings that absorb all the delicious flavors in each bite. This dish is one of those classic, heartwarming meals passed down through generations. It’s simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying, perfect for cozy evenings or for when you need a pick-me-up. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re craving a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this soup hits the spot every time.

So, let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can create this classic comfort food in your own kitchen. You’ll learn everything you need, from ingredient insights to expert tips, and even ways to mix things up if you’re feeling adventurous.

Chicken Corn Soup With Rivels Recipe

This recipe serves as the perfect balance between creamy and brothy, with tender pieces of chicken and sweet bursts of corn paired with soft rivels (small dumplings made from flour, egg, and milk). It’s a well-loved dish that delivers both nutrition and nostalgia in each spoonful.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This adds richness to the soup base and creates a smooth, velvety broth.
• 1 medium onion, diced – The onion provides depth and a hint of sweetness as it cooks down in the broth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that aromatic, savory kick that complements the chicken and corn.
• 6 cups chicken broth – The base of the soup; it’s essential to use a good-quality broth for the best flavor.
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook your own chicken breasts.
• 2 cups corn kernels – Fresh or frozen corn works here. The corn’s sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory broth.
• 1 teaspoon salt – This helps bring all the flavors together.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – For a little warmth and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – A subtle herb that adds an earthy, aromatic note to the soup.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is the base for the rivels, which will float gently in the broth.
• 1 egg – This helps bind the rivels together, giving them a soft, dumpling-like texture.
• 1/4 cup milk – This adds moisture to the rivels and makes them tender and delicate.

Cooking Instructions

1. Start with the base: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. This will form the flavorful base of your soup.
3. Shred the chicken: While the broth is heating up, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use a fork or your hands, depending on how much texture you want.
4. Stir in the chicken and corn: Once the broth is simmering, add the shredded chicken, corn kernels, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to marry and the soup to thicken slightly.
5. Make the rivels: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, egg, and milk. Stir together until a thick dough forms. It should be sticky but not runny.
6. Form the rivels: Using a teaspoon or your hands, drop small pieces of dough into the simmering soup. Be gentle-these should be tiny, irregular dumplings that will puff up as they cook.
7. Cook the rivels: Allow the rivels to cook in the simmering soup for about 10-12 minutes. They will float to the top once they’re cooked through.
8. Finish and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup serves a purpose, contributing to the overall taste and texture:

• Chicken broth: A good broth is the foundation of any great soup. It infuses the soup with a savory richness that complements the chicken and corn. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought can work just fine-just be sure to check for quality and taste.
• Corn kernels: Fresh or frozen corn adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory components of the soup. Sweet corn is also high in fiber and antioxidants, making it both tasty and nutritious.
• Rivels: These little dumplings are the heart of the soup. They act as sponges, soaking up the broth and adding a comforting, chewy texture. Made with just flour, egg, and milk, they are simple yet incredibly satisfying.

Expert Tips

• Shredding chicken: If you have the time, cooking your own chicken breasts or thighs adds more flavor to the broth compared to using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. However, rotisserie chicken can save time without compromising taste.
• Customize the texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer so that it reduces. If you like it more brothy, simply add an extra cup of chicken stock to thin it out.
• Rivel tips: When adding the rivels, make sure the soup is at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to avoid overcooking the dumplings. If your dough is too dry to form into rivels, add a little more milk until the consistency feels right.
• Herb variations: You can switch up the thyme with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even a bay leaf for a slightly different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

While the traditional chicken corn soup with rivels is comforting on its own, here are a few ways to tweak the recipe for a fresh twist:

• Add vegetables: To make the soup even heartier, consider adding diced carrots, celery, or peas for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy kick: If you enjoy a little heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. A dash of hot sauce right before serving can also give the soup a spicy boost.
• Creamy version: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking. This will make the broth rich and velvety.
• Swap the chicken: You can use turkey, ham, or even beef if you want a different protein, but chicken remains the most popular option due to its mild flavor that blends well with corn.

Final Words

Chicken corn soup with rivels is the kind of dish that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are. It’s full of simple ingredients that come together to create something delicious and filling. The addition of rivels adds a unique touch, transforming this soup into a one-pot meal that feels both comforting and substantial.