Every time I make this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, it brings me right back to my childhood. I can almost hear the laughter of my family gathered around the dinner table, eagerly waiting for the comforting aroma wafting from the kitchen to fill the air. There's something so special about this dish that transcends time and brings warmth to my heart. The way the chicken simmers in the slow cooker, melding together with the flavors of herbs and vegetables, creates a magical experience that I know you’ll cherish just as much as I do.
As the chilly months settle in, this cozy meal has become a staple in my home. I swear, I can almost see the faces of my loved ones lighting up when they catch a whiff as they walk through the door. It’s easy to make, and once you try it, I know you'll find yourself pulling out your crockpot more often than not. So let’s dive into making this delightful dish!
How to make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken breasts: You want the fresh kind, or even better, grab some that are pasture-raised for great flavor!
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2 cups chicken broth: This is essential for keeping your chicken moist and infusing it with flavor.
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1 can cream of chicken soup: This adds a creamy richness that makes the dish feel extra comforting.
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1 cup carrots, diced: Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and great texture.
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1 cup celery, diced: Celery gives it a nice crunch and has an aromatic quality that enhances the dish.
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1 onion, chopped: Onions add depth of flavor, making every bite more delicious.
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1 tsp garlic powder: Because what’s comfort food without a little garlic?
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1 tsp thyme: This herb truly elevates the flavors and brings a homey feel to your dish.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Always important for seasoning!
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1 can refrigerated biscuit dough: These will become the soft, fluffy dumplings that everyone loves.
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing! And if you don’t have some ingredients on hand, feel free to substitute. For example, if you’re not a fan of celery, try green beans or peas instead. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility!
Cooking Steps:
1. Prep the chicken: Start by placing your chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Don’t worry too much about cutting them up; they’ll get shredded later.
2. Add the broth: Pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the chicken. This is where the magic starts—you want it to submerge the chicken just enough for tenderness.
3. Creamy goodness: Next, add the can of cream of chicken soup. (I love the convenience of this ingredient!) Use a spatula to mix it with the broth so everything is well incorporated.
4. Chop the veggies: Toss in the diced carrots, celery, and chopped onion. I like to take a moment here to appreciate the colorful medley—the kitchen starts to feel alive!
5. Season it up: Sprinkle the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper over the top like it’s a love letter to your dish.
6. Cover and cook: Now, put the lid on your crockpot and let it work its magic. You can cook it on the low setting for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. I usually opt for low on days I’m at home; it allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
7. Shred the chicken: About 30 minutes before you're ready to serve, take the lid off and use two forks to shred the chicken. It should be tender and easy to pull apart. This is a great moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
8. Add the dumplings: Break apart the refrigerated biscuit dough into smaller pieces and drop them right on top of the chicken mixture. The dumplings will soak up all that delightful flavor.
9. Cook until fluffy: Cover and cook for another 30 minutes. You want those dumplings to rise and become tender, but be careful not to overcook them!
10. Serve warm: Once everything is ready, scoop out a hearty serving, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that this dish provides.
Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes this dish special to me is not only the delicious flavors but the memories it brings. I remember making this with my mother when I was young. We’d prepare it together on cold winter evenings, her gentle guidance helping me learn how to bring our family together through food. Each time I serve this to my family, it feels like I'm sharing a piece of that tradition with them.
What You’ll Need
To make things easier, here are the tools you'll need: a reliable crockpot, a cutting board, a sharp knife for chopping, and your favorite serving spoon to dish out the goodness!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start Early: I often throw this together in the morning before I have to run errands. Knowing a warm meal is waiting for me is the best feeling!
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: If you're short on time, chop your veggies the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Using Frozen Veggies: If you're in a pinch, feel free to use frozen carrots and peas. They work just as well!
- Get Your Kids Involved: This is a perfect recipe to get the grandkids involved. They love tearing the dough for the dumplings!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t rush the slow cooking: One thing I’ve learned is that low and slow really is the way to go, especially for the best flavor and tenderness!
- Check the broth: If you notice it’s getting a bit too thick, feel free to add a splash more chicken broth.
- Watch the dumplings: The key to fluffy dumplings is covering them and not peeking until the time is up!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
You can serve your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings as a standalone meal, but if you’re feeling fancy, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for dunking. A side of steamed broccoli or green beans can also complement it well—after all, we need our veggies, right?
Leftovers
Oh, and the leftovers! If you do happen to have any (which I doubt), they store beautifully. Just place any extras in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or back into the crockpot on low until warm. Trust me, the flavors deepen and it tastes even better the next day!
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken?
You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and bone-in is always juicier!
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you need a healthier option, you can use a homemade white sauce or even a gluten-free cream soup. It makes a difference in taste, but it can work in a pinch!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and let it rest in the fridge, then just start cooking it in the morning.
Every time I make this dish, it has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! When you serve it up and see the smiles on your family's faces, please be sure to let me know how it turns out. I just have a feeling your loved ones will be asking for seconds, just like mine do every time!