If you’re craving a warm and hearty meal, savory slow cooker chicken and dumplings is the answer. This dish is not just comfort food; it’s simple to make and full of flavor. With cooking time mostly hands-off, you can enjoy tender chicken and fluffy dumplings without the fuss. In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, steps, and tips for the perfect bowl. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
For this dish, you need 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This cut is perfect because it stays tender. You also need 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Using low-sodium broth helps control the salt.
Vegetables Required
Next, gather some fresh veggies. You will need:
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
These vegetables add great flavor and texture. They create a warm and hearty base for your meal.
Dumpling Ingredients
Now, let’s talk about the dumplings. You will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
The flour and baking powder create the dumpling structure. The butter and milk keep them moist and fluffy. Don’t forget to add 1/2 teaspoon salt for taste!
This combination of chicken, broth, vegetables, and dumplings makes a perfect comfort meal. Enjoy creating this dish that warms the heart!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by placing 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley. This mix adds great flavor. Make sure each piece is well coated.
Cooking the Vegetables and Broth
Next, chop 1 medium onion, 1 cup of carrots, and 1 cup of celery. Dice these veggies and pour them over the chicken. Then, mince 3 cloves of garlic and sprinkle that in too. Pour 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth over everything. Add a can of cream of chicken soup. Give it a gentle stir to blend all the flavors.
Making the Dumpling Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Add a pinch of salt for taste. Stir in 1/4 cup of melted butter and 1 cup of milk. Mix until it’s just combined; don’t overdo it. This batter creates fluffy dumplings.
Final Steps Before Serving
Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. Stir in 2 cups of frozen peas. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter evenly over the top. Cover and cook on high for another 30-40 minutes. The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through. Serve hot, garnished with 1/2 cup of fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Tips & Tricks
Best Chicken Cuts for Flavor
For the best flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook well in the slow cooker. You can also use thighs for more richness. Chicken thighs add great taste and stay moist. If you prefer white meat, stick to breasts. They shred nicely and soak up the broth.
How to Avoid Soggy Dumplings
To avoid soggy dumplings, don’t stir them too much. Drop spoonfuls of the batter on top of the mixture. Make sure the lid stays on while they cook. This traps steam and helps them rise. Cook the dumplings on high for the last 30 to 40 minutes. This ensures they stay fluffy and light.
Tips for Flavor Enhancements
Add fresh herbs for a flavor boost. Try thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. Use fresh garlic instead of minced for a punchier taste. You can also add a splash of lemon juice. This brightens and enhances the dish. For extra creaminess, mix in some sour cream before serving. Enjoy experimenting with spices and herbs to find your favorite mix!
Variations
Healthier Options
You can make this dish lighter if you want. Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They add flavor and stay moist. Swap out cream of chicken soup for a homemade version or a low-fat option. You can also use whole wheat flour in the dumplings for extra fiber.
Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to change the veggies. Instead of carrots and celery, use green beans or corn. You can even add spinach for a healthy twist. For the broth, try vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work just fine.
Different Flavor Profiles
Want to switch things up? Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick. For a savory note, toss in some bay leaves while cooking. You can also add different herbs, like rosemary or oregano, for a fresh taste. Experiment with adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the chicken and dumplings cool down. Then, place them in airtight containers. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the containers well to keep out air.
Freezing Chicken & Dumplings
You can freeze chicken and dumplings for later. First, cool them completely. Then, scoop portions into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just label the bags with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Guidelines
When you’re ready to eat, take the chicken and dumplings out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, place them in a pot over low heat. Stir often until everything is warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy your meal just like the first time!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just place the frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. You may need to cook it a bit longer, about 7-8 hours on low. The slow cooker will safely cook it through. Just make sure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F.
How do I make gluten-free dumplings?
To make gluten-free dumplings, swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour. You can use a blend made for baking. Follow the same steps for mixing the dough. Keep an eye on the dumplings, as they may cook faster.
What can I serve alongside chicken and dumplings?
Chicken and dumplings pair well with a simple green salad or steamed veggies. You can also serve warm bread rolls. It adds a nice touch and helps soak up the tasty broth. Consider a fruit salad for a sweet side, too.
In this post, we explored how to make chicken and dumplings. We covered the main ingredients like chicken, veggies, and dumpling mix. I walked you through easy steps to prepare and cook everything. We shared tips for the best chicken cuts and how to avoid soggy dumplings. You can also try healthier swaps and store your leftovers properly. With these insights, enjoy a warm bowl of comfort food anytime. I hope you find joy in making this classic dish with your own twist!
