Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially on a chilly day. This hearty dish combines tender, savory chicken with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. The best part? You can let it simmer away in your trusty crockpot while you go about your day, filling your home with a tantalizing aroma that beckons everyone to the table. Gather your loved ones and get ready to share a meal that feels like a warm hug!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cups frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups biscuit mix
- 2/3 cup milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, chopped carrots, celery, onion, dried thyme, garlic powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, perfect for shredding.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot, and stir in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness.
- In a separate bowl, combine the biscuit mix and milk, stirring until just mixed to create a delightful dumpling batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the crockpot, ensuring even distribution for fluffy dumplings.
- Cover the crockpot again, and cook on high for an additional 1-1.5 hours, or until the dumplings are light, fluffy, and thoroughly cooked through.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this cozy dish that’s sure to bring everyone to the table!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to customize this dish to your liking. Fresh parsley can brighten the flavors, while a dash of hot sauce can add a bit of kick. And don’t forget to enjoy the delicious broth – it’s the essence of this heartwarming meal!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe emphasizes the slow cooking technique, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Shredding the chicken ensures that it absorbs the tasty broth and pairs perfectly with the fluffy dumplings. A crockpot is the star here, making this a hands-off approach to create a delightfully comforting meal.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.
How do I store leftovers? Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream soup.
Conclusion
This crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and soft dumplings, it’s a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. So dust off that crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let this comforting dish take center stage at your dinner table. Happy cooking!