Chicken and dumplings is a comforting classic that warms the soul, perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty meal. However, traditional recipes can be time-consuming, requiring attention and multiple steps. Thankfully, with the help of a slow cooker, you can make this delicious dish in no time with minimal effort. Here’s how to simplify the process while still enjoying a rich, flavorful meal that will please the whole family.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for slow cooking. They’re tender and easy to shred once cooked.
- Carrots, Celery, and Onion: These vegetables form the base of your dish, adding flavor and texture.
- Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic undertone to the broth.
- Chicken Broth: For a rich, savory base that will be absorbed by the dumplings.
- Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are easy to add towards the end for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Flour, Baking Powder, Milk, and Butter: These are the ingredients for your fluffy dumplings, making the dish even more comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by chopping your vegetables (carrots, celery, and onion) into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the slow cooker along with the garlic. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can also finely chop the vegetables. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables.
2. Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in your chicken broth and season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. A teaspoon of thyme or rosemary works wonderfully with this dish. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the broth for even cooking.
3. Slow Cook the Chicken
Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook thoroughly and become tender enough to shred. The broth will infuse the vegetables, creating a rich, savory base for your dish.
4. Make the Dumplings
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, it’s time to make the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and butter. Add the milk and stir until the dough comes together. The consistency should be thick but spoonable.
5. Add the Dumplings to the Slow Cooker
Once the chicken is cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the chicken to the pot and stir everything together. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough on top of the chicken mixture. Make sure the dumplings are evenly spaced but don’t stir them in. Cover the slow cooker and let the dumplings cook for about 30 minutes, or until they are puffed up and cooked through.
6. Add the Frozen Peas
In the final 10 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker. They’ll heat up quickly and add a nice burst of color and flavor to your dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are done, give everything a final stir and serve. You’ll have a steaming bowl of comfort food that’s sure to satisfy.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the broth before serving.
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat. Chicken thighs tend to stay moist and tender when slow-cooked, making them ideal for this dish.
- Customize your dumplings by adding herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough. Fresh parsley or grated cheddar can elevate the flavor.
- Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just turn it on and let it cook while you go about your day.
Conclusion:
Making chicken and dumplings has never been easier with a slow cooker. This method ensures that the chicken is perfectly tender, the vegetables are infused with flavor, and the dumplings are light and fluffy—all with minimal hands-on time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for your family, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the slow cooker, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal in no time.
4o mini