Deliciously Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe You’ll Love

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that can simmer all day while you go about your life, nothing beats crockpot chicken and dumplings. This classic dish combines tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a creamy sauce that your whole family will adore. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a day when you need an easy meal, you’ll find that this recipe is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. In this article, we’ll dive into various aspects of making the perfect crockpot chicken and dumplings, along with helpful tips, variations, and a suggested side dish for a complete meal.

Why Use a Crockpot for Chicken and Dumplings?

Using a crockpot offers a variety of benefits, particularly when cooking chicken and dumplings. The slow cooking technique allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, ensuring that every bite is rich and tasty. This method also tenderizes the chicken to perfection, so it’s flaky and easy to shred. Plus, crockpots allow for a set-it-and-forget-it approach, giving you the freedom to engage with your day while your meal cooks slowly and deliciously.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create an incredible crockpot chicken and dumplings dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced onions
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups biscuits (can use refrigerated dough or homemade)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by dicing up the carrots, celery, and onions. These will be the base flavoring for your dish.
2. Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot: Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the diced vegetables on top, then pour in the chicken broth and the cream of chicken soup.
3. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook: Set the crockpot to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should cook through completely and be easy to shred.
5. Add Dumplings: About 30 minutes before serving, cut the biscuit dough into quarters and drop the pieces into the crockpot. Cover and cook until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
6. Serve: Shred the chicken using a fork and mix everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

To achieve that fluffy and tender dumpling, consider these tips:

• Avoid overworking the dough when forming the dumplings. Just mix until combined.
• Ensure they are added during the last hour of cooking to avoid becoming too soggy.
• You can also steam your dumplings on a rack if you prefer them to be less dense and chewy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Liquid: Always ensure you have enough liquid in the crockpot; otherwise, the dish may dry out.
2. Ignoring the Cooking Time: Time is crucial when it comes to cooking chicken. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture.
3. Using Frozen Chicken: Always start with thawed chicken for even cooking. Frozen chicken can retain water and make the dish too soupy.

Variations of Chicken and Dumplings

You can modify the traditional recipe by incorporating:

• Herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for enhanced flavor.
• Creamy Additions: Substitute cream of chicken with cream of mushroom for a different taste.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate green peas or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

For those who need a gluten-free option, just replace the biscuit dough with gluten-free biscuits. Additionally, ensure that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well, or consider making a homemade version to control the ingredients.

Recommended Side Dishes

Complement your crockpot chicken and dumplings with:

• A fresh garden salad
• Roasted vegetables for a healthy side
• Garlic bread or biscuits if craving more carbs

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer-term storage, consider freezing. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and will add extra flavor.

Q2: How can I thicken the broth?
A2: If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider adding cornstarch mixed with water during the last hour of cooking.

Q3: Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
A3: Absolutely! Prepare everything the night before and just turn on the crockpot in the morning.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
A4: Yes, feel free to add your favorites—peas, corn, or even sweet potatoes can work well!

Q5: What should I serve with this dish?
A5: Pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables can balance the heaviness of the dumplings.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a hearty meal that encapsulates comfort food in a simple recipe. Perfect for busy families on the go, this dish allows you to prepare ahead while pleasing everyone at the table. Click here to explore more recipes on our website and for a deeper dive into various dumpling styles, Learn more about dumpling recipes from Serious Eats.