Comfort Food Classic: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this easy-to-make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this hearty dish combines tender chicken, savory soups, and fluffy dumplings for a meal that’s sure to warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual gathering, this slow cooker favorite is guaranteed to be a hit. Join us as we dive into the recipe, including helpful cook notes, variations, and keto and low-carb options.
Ingredients:
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 6 Boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can Cream of chicken soup
- 1 can Cream of celery soup
- 2 tbsp. Fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp. Poultry seasoning
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 1 can Buttermilk refrigerated biscuits
- 2 cups Frozen mixed vegetables (defrosted)
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Begin by dicing the onion and chopping the fresh parsley. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
- Place the diced onion, chicken thighs, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chopped parsley, poultry seasoning, and chicken broth into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot.
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the defrosted frozen mixed vegetables, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Prepare Dumplings:
- Cut each buttermilk biscuit into quarters. Drop the biscuit pieces into the crockpot, covering the surface of the chicken mixture.
- Continue Cooking:
- Cover the crockpot again and continue cooking on low heat for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the dumplings are cooked, season the chicken and dumplings with black pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer white meat, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs.
- Homemade Dumplings: For homemade dumplings, you can make a simple biscuit dough using flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the chicken mixture in the crockpot and continue cooking as directed.
- Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy texture, substitute one can of cream of mushroom soup for the cream of celery soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of water in this recipe? A: Yes, chicken broth adds extra flavor to the dish compared to using water. It enhances the overall taste of the chicken and dumplings.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh vegetables such as carrots, peas, and celery instead of frozen mixed vegetables. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the crockpot.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the buttermilk biscuits and use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower florets or sliced zucchini instead of mixed vegetables. Serve the chicken mixture over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version, and feel free to add your favorite low-carb seasonings or spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
In conclusion, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep work and hands-off cooking in the slow cooker, it’s a convenient and delicious meal option for busy days. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or looking for a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So dust off your crockpot and get ready to enjoy the cozy goodness of homemade chicken and dumplings!