Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

This recipe offers a comforting and easy way to enjoy classic chicken and dumplings. Utilizing a slow cooker simplifies the process, resulting in tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a flavorful broth. It’s a perfect meal for a chilly day or when you’re looking for a hearty, home-cooked dish with minimal effort.

ingredients

• 1.5 – 2 lbs boneless,skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans)
• 1/2 cup granulated or brown sugar (optional)
• 1 can (16.5 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Grands!)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken thighs, chicken broth, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cream of chicken soup, and frozen mixed vegetables in a crock pot.
2. Optional Sweetness: Add 1/2 cup of granulated or brown sugar if desired. While it adds a subtle sweetness, it’s not essential and can be omitted for a lower-carb option.
3. Slow Cook: cook on high for approximately two-and-a-half hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
4. Add Dumplings: Cut each biscuit into quarters.Gently drop the biscuit pieces into the simmering broth.
5. Finish Cooking: Continue to cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy. Avoid lifting the lid frequently during this time to ensure the dumplings cook properly.
6. Serve: Serve hot over white rice. For a thicker broth, strain the broth into a saucepan and whisk in a cornstarch/water slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) over medium heat until thickened.

Tips and Variations

• Chicken Choice: While chicken thighs are recommended for thier tenderness, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as breasts may cook faster.
• Vegetable Options: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables, such as diced potatoes, celery, or corn.
• Herb enhancement: add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the broth for extra flavor.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.
• Broth Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier stew, leave some of the shredded chicken and vegetables intact when straining the broth for thickening.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of biscuit?

Yes, you can use different types of biscuits, but the flaky, layered biscuits like Pillsbury Grands! tend to hold up best in the broth.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and broth mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the biscuits just before cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes,leftovers can be frozen. Though, the dumplings may become slightly softer upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the broth and chicken separately from the dumplings.

Key Takeaways

• Slow cooker chicken and dumplings is a simple and comforting meal.
• Chicken thighs provide the most tender results.
• Biscuits added towards the end of cooking create fluffy dumplings.
• The recipe is easily customizable with different vegetables and seasonings.

this slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. With its customizable nature, you can easily adapt it to your preferences and create a dish that your family will love for years to come. As slow cooker technology continues to evolve, expect even more convenient and flavorful recipes like this one to emerge, making home cooking more accessible than ever.