Introduction
If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, look no further than this delightful Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Perfect for busy days or a comforting weekend meal, this dish brings together tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, all simmered to perfection in a wonderfully rich and creamy sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, as the slow cooker does all the work for you while you enjoy the delightful aromas filling your home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 package of refrigerated biscuit dough
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot, allowing them to create a tender base.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, diced onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Stir until well blended, inviting the aromatic herbs and spices to mingle.
- Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken in the crock pot. It will envelop the chicken and veggies, creating a savory sauce.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shredded, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, shred the chicken using two forks, letting the savory goodness mix back into the sauce.
- Take the refrigerated biscuit dough and cut it into quarters. Gently drop the pieces on top of the chicken mixture, creating delightful dumplings.
- Cover the crock pot again and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low, until the biscuits are fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve warm, dish into bowls, and enjoy the comforting embrace of this classic meal with your loved ones!
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, feel free to throw in some fresh herbs, like parsley or rosemary, just before serving. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as peas or corn, for a varied texture and taste. If you’re looking to lighten the dish a bit, consider using reduced-fat soup and dough options.
Cooking Techniques
The slow cooking method enhances the flavors and tenderness of the meat, allowing it to absorb the creamy sauce while maintaining its juiciness. Shredding the chicken before adding the dumplings ensures every bite is full of flavor. Dropping the biscuit pieces on top creates a delightful contrast as they cook, giving you fluffy dumplings ready to soak up all those delicious juices!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours, and you will still achieve tender results!
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with homemade white sauce or a different cream soup flavor, like cream of mushroom, for a slightly different taste.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Sauté the veggies and chicken in a large pot, then add the liquids and simmer until cooked through. Add the biscuit pieces for the last 15 minutes.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that not only nourishes but also brings everyone together around the table. So grab your ingredients, set the crock pot, and let the magic unfold as you indulge in this heartwarming meal!