Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 380 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots (sliced); 1 cup celery (chopped); 1 onion (diced); 2 cups frozen peas; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade)

Craving a cozy meal that practically cooks itself? Crockpot chicken and dumplings is the perfect solution! This dish combines succulent chicken with fluffy dumplings, simmered in a creamy broth. It’s ideal for busy days or chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this comforting recipe!

Ingredients

– 4 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots (sliced)
– 1 cup celery (chopped)
– 1 onion (diced)
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 6 hours on low heat.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 3g
This is based on one serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Place chicken thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery on top.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup.
4. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
6. After 4 hours, shred the chicken using two forks.
7. Stir in the frozen peas.
8. Cut biscuit dough into quarters and drop them on top of the mixture.
9. Cover and cook for an additional 2 hours on low.
10. Check for doneness; the dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken for a vegetarian version and swap out the biscuit dough for homemade dumplings if desired.

Serving and Pairings

Crockpot chicken and dumplings pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread. Consider serving it with steamed green beans or a light fruit salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can be frozen, but the dumplings may lose their texture upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

Using too much broth can make the dish soupy.
Not shredding the chicken properly may result in uneven texture.
Overcrowding the crockpot can prevent even cooking.
Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland flavors.
Not allowing enough cooking time may result in undercooked dumplings.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Make sure to cut the dumplings into even sizes for even cooking.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving for better consistency.
Experiment with different vegetables like corn or green beans.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure it cooks through properly.

How can I thicken the broth?

To thicken the broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the mixture during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure your chicken broth and cream of chicken soup are gluten-free.

Is it necessary to use cream of chicken soup?

While it adds creaminess and flavor, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or omit it for a lighter version.

How long can I keep leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container for freshness.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a hearty meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With minimal effort and a few ingredients, you can create a dish that delights the entire family. Perfect for any night of the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!