Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings
Looking for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself? You’ve come to the right place. We’ll show you how to make delicious slow cooker chicken & dumplings with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
You’ll have a hearty and satisfying dish to enjoy. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a bowl of warm, flavorful goodness.
Let’s get cooking!
Origins
Tracing the origins of Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings takes you back to the southern regions of the United States. It was a staple in many households and believed to be derived from the traditional chicken and dumplings recipe that’s been cooked for generations.
The slow cooker method was developed to make the cooking process easier and more convenient for busy families. By the mid-20th century, slow cookers had become a commonplace kitchen appliance and the dish gained immense popularity.
Nowadays, Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings is still a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to many homes.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onion
- Chicken broth
- Garlic
- Thyme
- Bay leaves
- Refrigerated biscuit dough
Instructions
To make Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings, take the following steps:
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Put the chicken breasts, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves into the slow cooker.
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Combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and poultry seasoning in a bowl and pour it over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks around 30 minutes before serving. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
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To make the dumpling batter, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and milk in a mixing bowl. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the chicken mixture in the slow cooker.
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Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
Make sure to follow these steps to prepare a tasty Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings dish. Enjoy!
Tips for Cooking
For successful cooking, adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. The right amount of salt, pepper, and herbs can make a difference in the flavor of your slow cooker chicken and dumplings. Be mindful to not over-season, as the flavors will intensify during the cooking process. Here are some tips to ensure a delicious and satisfying meal:
| Tips for Cooking |
|---|
| 1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for moist and tender meat. |
| 2. Add vegetables, such as carrots and celery, for flavor and nutrition. |
| 3. To thicken the sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. |
| 4. For fluffier dumplings, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the hot liquid and cook them uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes. |
| 5. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. |
Final Thoughts
As you finish up the cooking process, take a moment to appreciate the delicious scent filling your kitchen. The slow cooker has done its job of infusing the chicken and vegetables with amazing flavors, creating a comforting and nourishing dish.
The tender chicken, combined with the fluffy dumplings, makes a perfect combination that will warm your soul on a cold evening.
The ease of using a slow cooker has enabled you to make a homemade meal that tastes like it has been simmering on the stove all day. So sit back, relax, and savor each bite of this soothing dish.
Whether you’re having it alone or sharing it with loved ones, this slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen chicken in this recipe. You just need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. The slow cooker will thaw and cook the chicken, giving you a tasty dish. To make sure the chicken is properly cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, try replacing the chicken with plant-based options such as tofu or tempeh. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and dairy-free alternatives for the milk and butter in the dumplings.
Can I Substitute the All-Purpose Flour With a Gluten-Free Alternative?
Yes, you can switch out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. It may affect the texture slightly, but it should still be successful in the recipe.
What Is the Best Type of Slow Cooker to Use for This Recipe?
For making Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings, a programmable slow cooker with a timer is recommended. This will allow you to adjust the cooking time so that your chicken is tender and your dumplings are cooked through.
Can I Add Additional Vegetables to the Dish for Added Flavor?
Yes, it is possible to add additional vegetables to the dish for added flavor. Carrots, celery, and peas are popular choices. Simply chop them up and add them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. This will result in a delicious and flavorful dish.
