Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the answer! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of this classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe delivers a creamy, savory broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked dumplings – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
What is Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a quintessential comfort food dish that brings together tender, slow-cooked chicken in a rich and creamy broth, topped with soft and fluffy dumplings. It’s the kind of meal that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, often reminiscent of home-cooked favorites. The slow cooker method simplifies the process, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time, resulting in a deeply satisfying and flavorful dish.
The appeal lies in its simplicity and hearty nature, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. With minimal hands-on time, you can have a comforting, family-friendly meal ready to enjoy whenever you please. Ready to experience the magic of slow-cooked comfort? Give our Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe a try!
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide a rich flavor and stay moist during the slow cooking process.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season the chicken and broth.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds flavor and aromatics to the base of the broth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes to the savory flavor profile.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a pungent and aromatic base.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium to control the salt level.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note.
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates a creamy and rich broth.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness (optional).
- 1 can (16 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough: Cut into quarters to form the dumplings.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For garnish (optional).
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is designed for ultimate ease. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, creating a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. This recipe is wonderfully easy and features a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly tender chicken. The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the slow cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
● Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add minced garlic on top of the vegetables. Then, place the seared chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Pour in Liquids and Seasonings: Pour chicken broth and condensed cream of chicken soup over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle with dried thyme and rosemary.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add Peas (Optional): If using, stir in frozen peas.
- Prepare the Dumplings: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters.
- Add Dumplings: Drop the biscuit pieces (dumplings) into the slow cooker, spacing them evenly.
- Cook Dumplings: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a guaranteed winner on so many levels. The real draw of this recipe is the creamy, comforting broth that envelops tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. It’s a taste of home in every bite. Making this dish at home is significantly cheaper than ordering takeout or dining out, especially when feeding a family. The ingredients are readily available and affordable. The thyme and rosemary add a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. You can also customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like Chicken Pot Pie, another classic comfort food. However, the slow cooker method makes our Chicken and Dumplings exceptionally easy. Are you ready to experience the joy of homemade comfort food without the fuss? Try this recipe today!
What to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings With:
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a hearty meal on its own, but here are a few sides to complement it:
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Steamed Green Beans: Offers a healthy and colorful side.
- Cornbread: A classic pairing with Southern comfort food.
Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken adds a depth of flavor that greatly enhances the final dish.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: Control the salt level by using low-sodium chicken broth. You can always add more salt to taste later.
- Adjust Dumpling Cooking Time: The cooking time for the dumplings may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check them after 30 minutes and add more time as needed.
- Consider Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as potatoes, mushrooms, or corn, to customize the recipe to your liking.
- Prevent Soggy Dumplings: Add the dumplings during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking time to prevent them from becoming too soggy. Ensure the slow cooker is on high for the dumplings to cook properly.
5 Facts about Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
- Origins: Chicken and Dumplings is a dish with roots in both American and European cuisine, evolving from simple peasant fare into a beloved comfort food.
- Regional Variations: There are many variations, with some regions preferring rolled noodles instead of biscuits for the dumplings.
- Adaptable to Ingredients: This dish is highly adaptable, allowing for substitutions and additions based on personal preferences and available ingredients.
- Comfort Food Staple: It is often associated with family gatherings and home-cooked meals, symbolizing warmth and comfort.
- Slow Cooker Advantage: Using a slow cooker simplifies the process, allowing flavors to meld together over time and minimizing hands-on cooking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Allow the Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: Freezing the entire dish is not recommended, as the dumplings may become mushy. However, you can freeze the chicken and broth mixture separately. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then add fresh dumplings when reheating.
Final Thoughts:
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the perfect solution for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-prepare meal. With tender chicken, a creamy broth, and perfectly cooked dumplings, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of this classic comfort food!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: While fresh chicken is recommended for the best flavor, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Q: Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even a homemade cream sauce.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free biscuit dough for the dumplings and ensure your chicken broth and cream of chicken soup are gluten-free.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Potatoes, green beans, corn, and mushrooms all work well in this recipe.
Q: How do I prevent the dumplings from being gummy?
A: Ensure the slow cooker is on high when cooking the dumplings and that they have enough space to cook properly. Don’t overcook them; they should be cooked through but still slightly soft.