Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of Chicken and Dumplings, especially when it’s made in a cozy crockpot. This dish is the epitome of home cooking, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings all in one delightful meal. As the ingredients slowly meld together in the slow cooker, your home will fill with the most enticing aromas, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a busy day, this dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 cans (biscuits) refrigerated dough
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. They will be the star of this dish!
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth and well combined. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and salt into the crockpot. Give everything a gentle stir to combine those flavors.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, letting it mingle with the rest of the ingredients.
- Add in the frozen peas, stirring them into the mixture for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Take the refrigerated dough and cut it into quarters. Gently place the pieces on top of the chicken mixture in the crockpot.
- Cover the crockpot once more, then cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, allowing the dumplings to steam and become fluffy.
- Once the dumplings are cooked through, serve your Chicken and Dumplings warm, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried thyme.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand – peas, corn, or green beans would all be delicious additions!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the slow-cooking technique, which is perfect for developing deep flavors without much hands-on effort. The low and slow method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, and the flavors of the soup and vegetables meld beautifully. Shredding the chicken helps integrate the meat with the broth and dumplings, creating a heartwarming dish.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so. - What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?
This dish stands alone beautifully, but a side salad or some crusty bread can complement it nicely. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion
There you have it—a hearty, soul-soothing recipe for Chicken and Dumplings that the whole family will adore. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also filled with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or enjoying it as a weekend treat, it is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. So gather your loved ones, ladle out some of this delightful dish, and savor the moments around your dinner table!