Every single time I make this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, it takes me back to the cozy Sunday dinners of my childhood. Imagine a chilly evening, warm laughter echoing throughout the house, and the delicious aroma of chicken simmering in a savory broth. That’s the magic of this dish! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, filled with nostalgia and love. I remember gathering with my family around the table, the warmth from the kitchen creating a homey atmosphere that made all the troubles of the day melt away. I know that once you try it, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort too!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients Here's what you will need to whip up this wonderful dish:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 pieces |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can |
| Frozen mixed vegetables | 1 cup |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Biscuit dough | 1 cup |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing!
Cooking Steps
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Prepare Your Chicken First things first! Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. You can season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
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Mix the Sauce In a bowl, combine the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. This creamy mixture is key to making your dish rich and hearty.
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Add Flavor Sprinkle in the onion powder and garlic powder. Trust me; these spices will make your dish come alive with flavor!
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Incorporate the Veggies Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables—this is where you can get creative! If you prefer fresh veggies, feel free to use them instead. I love adding peas and carrots; they add a colorful touch!
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Pour the Mixture Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Be gentle, so you don’t disturb the chicken too much.
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Set It Up Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. As the hours go by, you’ll start to smell that wonderful fragrance wafting through your home!
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Prepare the Dumplings About 30 minutes before your dish is ready, open the lid and drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough right on top of the chicken and broth. This fun step is what makes the dish so comforting!
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Finish Cooking Cover the crockpot again and let the biscuit dough steam in the delicious broth until it puffs up and becomes golden brown.
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Shred the Chicken Once you’re ready to serve, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Mixing the chicken with the dumplings and broth creates a heavenly combination of flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve them warm. You won’t believe how satisfying this dish is!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings so special to me is not just the comfortable taste it offers, but the memories it brings back. Preparing this meal often feels like a warm embrace; it's a ritual that invites love and care into my home. I adore the simplicity of the recipe; anyone can make it, and it can easily feed a family. Plus, there’s something so soothing about watching it cook while the aroma fills the kitchen!
What You’ll Need
Aside from the simple ingredients, you’ll need just a few tools. A good crockpot is essential. I have a trusty old one that my family calls vintage now, but it still works wonders! Additionally, you’ll need a mixing bowl for the sauce and a good pair of tongs for shredding that tender chicken.
Tips for Perfect Results
- For a little extra flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the crockpot. It adds a lovely depth of flavor!
- Make sure to cover the crockpot properly while cooking. This keeps all the moisture packed in, ensuring that your dumplings come out fluffy and delightful.
- If you’re looking to lighten things up, using low-fat cream of chicken soup and low-sodium broth can work wonders without losing taste.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I love serving my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to mop up all that tasty gravy. If I’m feeling particularly indulgent, I’ll whip up some homemade cornbread—it pairs perfectly with the dish and adds a nice touch of sweetness!
Leftovers
Now, let’s face it: if there are any leftovers (which is rare!), they can be a treasure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat them, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems a bit dry. It’s just as delightful 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 always turns out juicier! The bones add depth to the broth, making it richer and tastier.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! You can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand. I’ve used green beans, corn, and even leftover turkey! It’s all about getting creative and using what you love most!
How can I make the dumplings more flavorful?
For extra flavor in your dumplings, you can add shredded cheese to the biscuit dough or mix in herbs like thyme or parsley. It really ups your dish’s game!
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings has become a beloved favorite in my house, and I just can't wait for you to try it! The combination of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings swimming in that savory broth is something that fills my heart with joy. Cooking it not only fills the belly but also warms the soul. I know you and your family will love it just as much as mine does.
So, are you ready to create some beautiful memories with this recipe? Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time! Happy cooking, my dear friends!