Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich broth. Making it in the crock pot is perfect for beginners because it’s easy and requires minimal effort. Follow these steps to make a delicious homemade version that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (or a mix of dried thyme, sage, and rosemary)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by adding the boneless skinless chicken breasts to the bottom of the crock pot. Then, layer the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic over the chicken. These vegetables will add flavor to the broth and create a hearty base for your dish.
Pour the chicken broth into the crock pot, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are covered. Add the poultry seasoning or your blend of dried thyme, sage, and rosemary. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Set the crock pot to low and cook the chicken mixture for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender, and the vegetables will soften and flavor the broth.
After the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crock pot. The chicken should be tender enough to fall apart easily.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
While the chicken is finishing up, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate small bowl, mix the melted butter and milk.
Gradually stir the milk mixture into the flour mixture until a thick, sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dumplings dense instead of fluffy.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings to the Crock Pot
Once the chicken is shredded and the broth is simmering, it’s time to add the dumplings. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the simmering broth. Make sure not to overcrowd the dumplings, as they will expand as they cook.
Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on high for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the dumplings are cooked through. They should be fluffy and firm to the touch when they are done.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are fully cooked, your Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is ready to serve. Spoon generous portions of chicken, vegetables, broth, and dumplings into bowls, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy, hearty dish.
Cooking Notes:
- Chicken: You can substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts if you prefer dark meat. Thighs will give the dish a richer flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, potatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Dumplings: For lighter dumplings, you can substitute part of the milk with buttermilk or add a little sour cream to the dough.
Variations:
- Herb Dumplings: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the dumpling dough for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a creamier broth.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms and potatoes, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use canned biscuits instead of homemade dumplings?
Yes! If you prefer a shortcut, you can use canned biscuit dough instead of making dumplings from scratch. Simply tear the biscuits into small pieces and drop them into the crock pot during the final hour of cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
Chicken and dumplings can be frozen, but the dumplings may not retain their fluffy texture after thawing. If you plan to freeze this dish, consider freezing only the chicken and broth, then making fresh dumplings when reheating.
This Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a beginner-friendly way to make a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, creating tender chicken and flavorful broth while you go about your day. The fluffy, homemade dumplings add a delicious finishing touch, making this dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for an easy dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy