Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is one of those classic comfort dishes that warms the heart and fills the belly. As the slow cooker does its magic, your kitchen fills with irresistible aromas, making it hard to resist this family-friendly meal. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and loaded with wholesome ingredients. On a rainy day or during a cold winter evening, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as diving into a warm bowl of this delightful dish.
Why We Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
The beauty of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is its simplicity and heartiness. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that feels like it simmered all day on the stove. The chicken becomes tender and absorbent, taking on the rich flavors of the broth and veggies, while the dumplings add a fluffy, comforting texture that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s the perfect one-pot meal for busy families, allowing you to set it and forget it—ideal for anyone leading a hectic lifestyle.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to creating a warm, soul-soothing dish like Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, you want to have the right ingredients on hand. Here’s what you will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough
These ingredients work together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Directions
Making this delightful dish is quite simple, even for those who consider themselves novice chefs. Here’s a straightforward step-by-step guide to whip up your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spread them out evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it completely covers the chicken. This step is crucial, as it adds moisture and flavor to the meat.
- Incorporate Creamy Goodness: Next, add the can of cream of chicken soup to the pot. This will give your dish a rich creaminess that makes it comforting and delicious.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onions. These veggies not only contribute flavor but also add nutrition and texture to your dish.
- Season to Taste: Sprinkle garlic powder, along with salt and pepper, over the mixture. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender the chicken will become.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooking is complete, carefully shred the chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it well with the other ingredients.
- Prepare the Dumplings: Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters. Drop these pieces into the slow cooker, spacing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Cook the Dumplings: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for another 30 minutes or until the biscuits are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the meal is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings!
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to serving Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, presentation is key. Consider using deep bowls to accommodate the hearty broth and fluffy dumplings. You might sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can enhance the meal by adding a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.
Remember, this dish is best served warm and enjoyed with family or friends. It sparks great conversation and leaves everyone craving seconds.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Quality Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. They yield the most tender and delicious meat.
- Don’t Skip the Broth: Make sure to fully cover the chicken with the broth. This prevents it from drying out and ensures that it infuses the dish with flavor.
- Choose the Right Vegetables: Feel free to customize the veggies based on your preference. Peas, green beans, or corn can be great additions.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth before adding all the seasonings. You can always add more salt and pepper as needed.
- Cook Time Matters: Each slow cooker is different. Check your chicken for tenderness and your dumplings for doneness as cooking times may vary.
- Leftover Transformation: If you have leftovers, consider using them in a pot pie or as a topping for baked potatoes for a delicious new meal.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Storing your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will be good for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If you find that the dumplings have soaked up some moisture, you may want to add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore some of its original consistency.
Variations of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
One of the fantastic things about Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is its versatility! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Herb-Infused Dumplings: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to your dumpling mix before cooking for a burst of flavor.
- Creamy Spinach Addition: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last 20 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mix.
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for turkey, or even go vegetarian by using chickpeas or mushrooms as the protein base.
- Explore Broth Options: For diversity in flavor, try using vegetable broth or even homemade chicken stock for a richer taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chicken for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
For optimal flavor and texture, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended. They cook evenly and shred beautifully, allowing them to absorb the delicious flavors in the broth.
Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. It reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping.
How can I make my dumplings fluffier?
To achieve fluffy dumplings, ensure that you do not overmix the dough when cutting the biscuits. This allows them to rise better during cooking.
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze your leftovers. Just be aware that the dumplings may lose some of their texture after freezing.
How can I adjust the seasonings to my taste?
Feel free to taste the broth while cooking and adjust the seasonings as needed. Adding herbs and spices can enhance the flavor profile to suit your preferences.
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Opt for fresh high-quality chicken for best flavor.
- 2 cups chicken broth Make sure it fully covers the chicken.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Adds rich creaminess.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced Fresh or frozen works well.
- 1 cup celery, chopped Fresh celery recommended.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped Adds flavor to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adjust seasoning to taste.
- to taste salt and pepper Customize to your liking.
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough Cut into quarters before adding.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it completely covers the chicken.
- Add the can of cream of chicken soup to the pot.
- Toss in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onions.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, along with salt and pepper, over the mixture.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooking is complete, shred the chicken using two forks and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters and drop them into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes or until the biscuits are cooked through and fluffy.
Serving
- Ladle the dish into bowls and serve warm. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
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