Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 1 onion (chopped); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can (10.5 oz cream of chicken soup); 1 cup biscuit mix; 1/2 cup milk

Indulge in a bowl of comfort with this delicious crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a savory broth. Just set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker do the work. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup biscuit mix
1/2 cup milk

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the crockpot.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately 320 calories, 10g fat, 30g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is a hearty meal that provides a good balance of nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the diced carrots, celery, and onions over the chicken.
Sprinkle garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper on top.
Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup.
Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
In a bowl, mix the biscuit mix and milk to form a dough.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the crockpot.
Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, until dumplings are fluffy.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option and add your choice of vegetables like peas or corn for variety.

Serving and Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving with sautéed greens or roasted vegetables on the side.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the dumplings may lose their texture upon reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t skip the sautéing of vegetables; it enhances the flavor.
Ensure the lid stays on while cooking to retain moisture.
Don’t overmix the dumpling dough; a few lumps are okay.
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Shred the chicken only after it’s fully cooked for best results.

Helpful Tips

Experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.
Adjust the consistency of the broth by adding more or less liquid.
For a creamy texture, stir in a bit of sour cream before serving.
Serve hot for the best experience, especially on cold days.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by an hour. Ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Cook the next day for a quick meal.

What if the dumplings are too dense?

If the dumplings are dense, consider adding a bit more milk to the dough mixture for a lighter texture.

Can I add additional vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

How can I thicken the broth?

To thicken the broth, mix cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the hot broth until it thickens.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a delightful and easy recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and make for perfect family meals. Enjoy the simplicity and heartiness of this classic dish, and watch it become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.