When you think of comfort food, Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings probably comes to mind. This dish is a warm hug in a bowl, combining succulent chicken, tender vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Your crockpot does all the hard work, letting you enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Why We Love This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
You will love this recipe for its simplicity and flavor. Not only does it require just a handful of ingredients, but it also takes advantage of the slow-cooking process, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe fits the bill. You can create a satisfying meal that warms your soul without breaking a sweat. The ease of preparation, combined with the comforting taste, makes this dish a family favorite that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients about Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
To whip up this scrumptious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuits
These ingredients come together harmoniously, ensuring that every bite is filled with flavor and satisfaction.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Directions
To make your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, follow these straightforward steps:
- Start by placing the 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This layer serves as the base for your scrumptious dish.
- Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. This ingredient provides the necessary liquid and flavor while keeping the chicken moist during cooking.
- Now it’s time to add the 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup. This will give your dish a creamy texture and rich flavor that ties everything together.
- Toss in 1 cup of sliced carrots, 1 cup of sliced celery, and 1 chopped onion. These vegetables provide crunch and nutrition, making your meal healthier.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. These herbs elevate the dish, bringing depth and aroma.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t hesitate to adjust these seasonings according to your preference, ensuring the dish suits your taste.
- Gently stir all the ingredients to combine them well and coat the chicken with flavors from the broth and vegetables.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and the flavors will meld beautifully as it cooks.
- About 30 minutes before serving, open the can of refrigerated biscuits. Tear each biscuit into quarters and stir them into the crockpot. This is what will create those delightful dumplings you love.
- Cover the crockpot again and cook for an additional 30 minutes. The biscuits will rise and cook through, turning fluffy.
- If desired, shred the chicken right into the mixture for easier serving, or leave the chicken whole for a heartier bite.
- Serve warm, and consider pairing it with a nice crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to serving Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, you have plenty of options. This dish stands well on its own, thanks to the hearty chicken and dumplings. However, feel free to enhance your dining experience by adding a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a delightful contrast in texture. The freshness of a green salad can help balance the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
If you’re hosting a dinner or family gathering, consider serving it in deep bowls to emphasize its comforting nature. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Encouraging everyone to dig in will surely create a warm, inviting atmosphere around the table.
Expert Tips: Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Here are a few expert tips to maximize your experience with Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables. Fresh carrots, celery, and onions will enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker broth, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water) in the last hour of cooking. This will help achieve the desired consistency.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to play around with additional spices. A dash of paprika or a sprinkle of herbs de Provence can add an interesting twist.
- Don’t Skip the Dumplings: They are the highlight of the dish! Ensure you add them during the last 30 minutes to achieve that light and fluffy texture.
- Serve Immediately: Chicken and dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, but if you plan to wait before serving, keep it on the warm setting to keep everything nice and hot.
How to Store Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Storing your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is simple. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option. If you’re storing it longer than that, consider freezing portions. Place the chicken and dumplings in freezer-safe containers, and it can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the creaminess.
Variation of Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
While the classic Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is truly comforting, you can easily vary the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutrition profile by adding peas, green beans, or corn. These can be added during the last hour of cooking to maintain their texture.
- Swap the Chicken: If you’re looking for a different protein, consider using turkey or even meat substitutes for a vegetarian version. Just be mindful of cooking time adjustments.
- Use Homemade Soup: If you prefer to avoid canned products, making your own cream of chicken soup can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Dumpling Options: Instead of using refrigerated biscuits, you could try making your own dumplings from scratch. There are numerous easy recipes available that allow for creativity in flavors and textures.
FAQ
What is the cooking time for Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
You can cook this dish on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What should I serve with Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to create an amazing Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds! Enjoy the cooking process, and make it your own with all the variations you love.
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuits
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Add the cream of chicken soup.
- Toss in the sliced carrots, sliced celery, and chopped onion.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder and dried thyme.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently stir all the ingredients to combine and coat the chicken.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, tear the refrigerated biscuits into quarters and stir them into the crockpot.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Shred the chicken if desired before serving.
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