Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked in a single pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve your family something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Thanks to the Instant Pot, the cooking process is quick and straightforward, allowing you to have a warm, satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Why We Love This Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
This recipe has captured the hearts of many for several reasons. First, it combines classic flavors with convenience, making it ideal for families with busy schedules. The Instant Pot not only saves time but also locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring the chicken is tender and juicy. You can customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Finally, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying quality moments with your loved ones.
Ingredients about Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can biscuits or dumplings
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings Directions
To start, you will need to prepare all your ingredients. If you prefer smaller pieces of chicken in your dish, cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into chunks. This step allows for even cooking and easier serving later.
Next, add the chicken, chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to your Instant Pot. Gently stir everything together to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the broth and soup mixture. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.
Once your ingredients are combined, it’s time to seal the lid on your Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to sealing to trap the steam inside. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. During this time, the flavors develop, and the chicken becomes tender.
After 10 minutes of cooking, allow the pot to sit for 10 minutes for a natural pressure release. This step lets the steam escape slowly, helping to maintain the integrity of the ingredients. After the natural release, carefully quick release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to venting.
Now, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. This is a simple process that will ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the dumplings. Make sure they are well-coated with the broth mixture. If you’re using canned biscuits, cut them into quarters for bite-sized portions. Closing the lid again, set the valve to sealing and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the dumplings to cook through, becoming soft and fluffy.
Once the time is up, release the pressure once more and stir the mixture gently. Taste your creation and add any additional salt and pepper, if needed, to suit your preferences.
Scoop the warm, comforting Chicken and Dumplings into bowls and serve immediately. For an extra touch, you can garnish with fresh herbs. Now you can enjoy a home-cooked meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
When serving Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings, consider presenting it in deep, wide bowls to capture the delicious broth and ample portions of chicken and dumplings. The dish can be enjoyed as a standalone meal, but if you want to create a more balanced dinner, pair it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, on top for a pop of color and flavor. Their freshness will elevate the dish, giving it a vibrant look that is sure to impress. You can also serve it with a side of green beans or steamed broccoli to add more nutrition to your meal.
Remember that this dish is best enjoyed warm. If you make it ahead of time, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth if it thickens too much. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors again without losing any of the dish’s delightful essence.
Expert Tips: Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your chicken and broth greatly impacts the final flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the saltiness level of your dish. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance every bite.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to mix up the veggies! Carrots, peas, or even fresh spinach can add delightful texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can use fresh vegetables, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they cook through.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While the base of this recipe is already flavorful, feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices. Dried thyme or sage can complement the chicken beautifully.
- Check the Dumplings: When you add the dumplings, ensure they are fully submerged in the broth for even cooking. If you find they are not cooking through to your liking, you can add an extra minute or two during the second pressure cook cycle.
- Perfect the Texture: If your dish comes out thicker than you prefer, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water when serving to adjust the consistency.
How to Store Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
If you have leftovers (though it might be hard to resist finishing it all), you can store Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings in airtight containers. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in a pot over medium heat on the stove. Add a little chicken broth to restore the desired consistency, as the dumplings can absorb some of the liquid when stored. You can also use the microwave; however, stirring occasionally ensures even heating.
If you want to keep your Chicken and Dumplings longer, consider freezing them. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the pot or microwave.
Variation of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
There are numerous ways to make this recipe your own! If you want to switch things up, consider these variations.
- Use Different Proteins: While chicken is a classic choice, you can try turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as cooked chicken will require less time in the pot.
- Add Different Dumplings: Instead of using canned biscuits, why not try homemade dumplings? You can make a simple dough with flour, baking powder, milk, and butter to create a more personalized version of dumplings.
- Spice It Up: For a little kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. This can give a delightful heat that balances out the creamy soup.
- Creamy Alternatives: Instead of cream of chicken soup, consider using cream of mushroom or even a homemade creamy sauce for a unique flavor twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs, incorporating thyme, rosemary, or dill for a different aromatic profile in your Chicken and Dumplings.
FAQ
What can I do if my dumplings don’t cook through?
If your dumplings aren’t fully cooked, it’s likely they need a bit more time under pressure. Ensure they are fully submerged in the broth and consider adding an additional minute or two during the second cooking phase.
How can I make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure the dumplings you use are made with gluten-free flour. You can also make your own gluten-free dumplings using a mix of gluten-free flour and baking powder.
Is it possible to use fresh chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken instead of frozen. In fact, fresh chicken cooks more evenly. Just be cautious of the cooking time and ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before shredding.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line in your Instant Pot. Doubling the ingredients may also require adjusting the cooking time slightly, so use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
You’re now set to create a mouthwatering bowl of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dining experience. Enjoy tackling this simple recipe and delighting in the results!
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can be cut into chunks for even cooking.
- 2 cups chicken broth Opt for low-sodium if preferred.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables Customize with veggies like carrots or peas.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) Or substitute with cream of mushroom for variation.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can biscuits or dumplings Cut biscuits into quarters if using.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken breasts into chunks for even cooking.
- Add chicken, chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the Instant Pot.
Cooking
- Seal the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the dumplings, ensuring they are well-coated with the broth mixture.
- Close the lid again, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
- Release the pressure and stir the mixture gently before tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Scoop into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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