best pennsylvania dutch chicken corn soup

Are you ready to warm up with a bowl of comforting goodness? I can’t wait to share my favorite recipe for Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup! This appetizing dish is packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy dumplings, making it perfect for chilly days and family gatherings. Let’s dive in and whip up something truly special!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn soup
To make a hearty and comforting Pennsylvania dutch chicken Corn Soup,you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what I typically use when whipping up this beloved recipe:
- 2 (3-pound) whole chickens, cut into pieces – For rich flavor and tender meat.
- 3 quarts of water – This will form the base of your soup.
- 3 onions, minced – These add a sweet and savory depth.
- 1 cup chopped celery – For a crunchy texture and fresh taste.
- 2 ½ tablespoons salt – Adjust to your taste, but salt is essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground nutmeg – Adds a warm, aromatic spice that’s key to the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – A little kick to balance out the sweetness.
- 10 ears of fresh corn, kernels cut from the cob – Sweet, juicy corn is the star ingredient!
- 3 eggs, divided – Two for hard boiling and one for the dumplings.
- 1 cup sifted all-purpose flour – This will help create the delightful dumplings, known as rivels.
- ½ cup milk – To make the dumplings tender and delicious.
Using fresh ingredients makes all the difference! I love selecting the corn right off the cob; it really enhances the soup’s flavor. So,gather these ingredients and let’s move on to the next exciting step!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Corn soup
Ready to cook? Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup. I promise it’s worth the wait!
- Combine Ingredients: Start by placing the chicken pieces, water, onions, celery, salt, nutmeg, and pepper into a large stockpot. Set it over medium heat and bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Simmer and Cook: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally and add water as needed until the chicken is vrey tender.
- Cool and chill: Carefully transfer the chicken to a deep dish and pour the soup into a large bowl or jug.Cover both and refrigerate for 6 to 8 hours. This step helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Remove Fat: After chilling, a layer of fat will solidify on the surface. Gently discard this fat and pour the soup back into a large pot over medium heat. Add in the fresh corn and bring to a boil again.
- Prepare the Eggs: While the soup is heating, take 2 eggs, place them in a small saucepan, and cover with cold water. Bring it to a boil, then turn off the heat and let the eggs sit covered for 10-12 minutes. This will give you perfect hard-boiled eggs!
- Shred Chicken: Chop the chilled chicken into small chunks and stir them back into the warming soup.
- Make the Dumplings: in a medium bowl, whisk the last egg until it’s light in color. Mix in the flour and milk until smooth. Drop small lumps of this mixture, or rivel dough, into the simmering soup. Cook until they float to the top, wich should take about 2 to 5 minutes.
- Finish Up: chop the hard-boiled eggs and stir them into the soup for an extra touch of flavor.
Now, your soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls, savor the warmth, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.

Serving and Storage Tips for Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup
Once your Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! This soup is perfect for serving at a family gathering or a cozy dinner. Here are some tips on how to serve and store it:
- Serving Suggestions: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor. this dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal.
- Portion Size: This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated or frozen for later enjoyment.
- Storage Guidelines: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool entirely before placing it in the freezer.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and then warm it gently on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
By following these tips, you can savor the delightful flavors of your chicken corn soup for days to come. It’s a versatile dish that tastes even better the next day!
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Corn soup
As you prepare your Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup, here are some valuable notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:
- Adjusting Seasoning: After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. if it tastes a bit bland, add more salt or a dash of pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Perfecting Dumplings: When making the rivels, ensure the dough isn’t too thick. If it is, combine a little more milk into the mixture for a smoother consistency.If they don’t float after cooking, it usually means they need a bit more time in the pot.
- Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have whole chickens, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as they will cook faster.
- corn Options: While fresh corn is best for this recipe, you can substitute with canned or frozen corn in a pinch.Just add it into the soup toward the end of cooking to heat through.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup,consider whisking a bit of cornstarch mixed with water into the soup as it simmers. This will give it a heartier texture.
with these notes in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenges that may arise. Enjoy making this comforting dish and sharing it with loved ones!