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 chopped carrots; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 small onion (diced); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 can (10.5 oz cream of chicken soup); 2 cups biscuit dough; Salt and pepper to taste

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken with fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich, savory broth. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
2 cups biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Here you need to write ONLY LIST (at least 10 items in the list) STEP-by-step detailed preparation “crockpot chicken and dumplings”, the size of this block is strictly from 1200 to 1500 characters.

Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion over the chicken.
In a bowl, mix chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour the broth mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the pot.
Prepare the biscuit dough according to package instructions.
Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough on top of the chicken mixture.
Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, until dumplings are fluffy.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. Instead of cream of chicken soup, use homemade white sauce for a lighter dish. Frozen vegetables can also be used in place of fresh ones for convenience.

Serving and Pairings

Crockpot chicken and dumplings can be served with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables. A light crusty bread or cornbread pairs beautifully, making for a hearty meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the dumplings.

Cooking Mistakes

Using too much liquid can make dumplings soggy.
Not shredding the chicken thoroughly can lead to uneven flavors.
Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken.
Skipping the seasoning will result in bland dumplings.
Not checking the dumplings near the end can lead to overcooking.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
Experiment with different vegetables for variety.

FAQs

How can I thicken the broth in my crockpot chicken and dumplings?

To thicken the broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can let it simmer uncovered for a while before serving.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

What vegetables can I add to enhance the dish?

You can add peas, green beans, or potatoes for added texture and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well. Homemade alternatives can be made easily.

How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming dense?

Be careful not to overmix the dumpling dough, and ensure they are dropped onto the hot broth to steam properly, ensuring they remain fluffy.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a delightful dish that embodies warmth and comfort. With minimal prep and the convenience of slow cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste, making it a timeless favorite for years to come.