Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something warm and hearty, Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the perfect dish to satisfy your soul. This classic comfort food is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a meal that’s as comforting as a cozy blanket on a cold day.
Ingredients Needed for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can chicken broth
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- Sliced carrots (as desired)
- Sliced celery (as desired)
- 1/2 can peas
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- Crumbled bacon (as desired)
- Parsley (as desired)
- Garlic powder (as desired)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 can flaky biscuits
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a delicious, satisfying dish. The combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings is what makes this recipe a true classic.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Base Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the can of chicken broth and both cans of cream of chicken soup over the chicken. This creamy base will infuse the chicken with rich flavors as it cooks, creating a luxurious texture and taste.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings Add the sliced carrots, celery, and chopped onion. Use as much or as little as you prefer, depending on your taste. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley flakes over the mixture to taste. The vegetables not only add nutrition but also contribute to the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3 hours. After 3 hours, carefully remove the chicken breasts. Shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir everything together. Shredding the chicken allows it to mix beautifully with the creamy base, ensuring every bite is flavorful and tender.
Step 4: Add Bacon, Peas, and Dumplings Add the crumbled bacon and half a can of peas. Stir gently to combine. Open the can of flaky biscuits. Break them into small pieces and place them on top of the mixture in the slow cooker. The bacon adds a smoky, savory element, while the peas bring a touch of sweetness. The biscuit dough transforms into tender, golden dumplings as it cooks.
Step 5: Finish Cooking Continue cooking on high for an additional 1 to 2 hours. This allows the biscuit pieces to cook through and become fluffy and golden on top. Once the dumplings are cooked, your meal is ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Choosing the Right Vegetables Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms. The key is to chop them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Enhancing the Flavor For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of poultry seasoning. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added alongside the parsley for a fragrant touch.
Adjusting Consistency If the mixture seems too thick, add a little more chicken broth. Prefer a thicker base? Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker before adding the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a crisp green salad, a side of steamed green beans, or freshly baked bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but be sure to increase the cooking time slightly and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the base (steps 1-3) ahead of time. Add the bacon, peas, and biscuits just before the final cooking stage.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze this dish. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
What can I use as a substitute for cream of chicken soup? You can make a homemade version using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk. Cook equal parts butter and flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in the liquids until thickened.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free biscuits and ensure all other ingredients, like the cream of chicken soup, are certified gluten-free.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Its simple preparation and delicious results make it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Try it today and enjoy the smiles it brings to your loved ones!