Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Name: Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless (skinless chicken thighs); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots (chopped); 1 cup celery (chopped); 1 onion (diced); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough; 1 cup heavy cream

This crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmer together to create a deliciously rich and creamy dish that warms the soul. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making this delightful meal!

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 onion, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
1 cup heavy cream

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time in the crockpot is about 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

One serving (about 1.5 cups) of crockpot chicken and dumplings contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. This is a comforting yet balanced meal option for anyone.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot.
Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion on top of the chicken.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir back into the mixture.
Cut biscuit dough into quarters and gently fold into the chicken mixture.
Pour in heavy cream and mix well.
Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high until dumplings are cooked through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat biscuit dough or add other vegetables like peas or green beans.

Serving and Pairings

Crockpot chicken and dumplings pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or heat on the stovetop. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the dumplings may lose some texture upon reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcrowding the crockpot can lead to uneven cooking.
Skipping the seasoning can result in bland flavors.
Not allowing enough cooking time may leave chicken undercooked.
Cutting dumplings too small can cause them to overcook.
Using low-quality broth will affect the final flavor.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, sauté vegetables before adding them to the crockpot.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
Experiment with herbs and spices to customize the taste.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to thicken.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure to extend the cooking time accordingly. It’s best to cook on low for 8-10 hours if using frozen chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What can I replace the biscuit dough with?

You can use homemade dumpling dough or even store-bought gnocchi as an alternative to biscuit dough for a different texture.

How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy?

Make sure to add the dumplings toward the end of the cooking time and avoid stirring them too much to maintain their structure.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all ingredients the night before, store them in the refrigerator, and then start the crockpot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a delightful dish that delivers comfort and flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a warm, hearty meal, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender textures that make this classic dish a favorite for all ages.