Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a crock pot. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich and creamy sauce, creating a dish that feels like a hug on a cold day. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this meal is guaranteed to be a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 to 6 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot, letting them nestle in comfortably.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, diced onion, sliced carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until well blended and pour this delicious mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, allowing it to soak up all that savory goodness.
- Add in the frozen peas and gently stir to combine everything together.
- Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters and drop them casually on top of the bubbling mixture in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot once more and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and look delightfully fluffy.
- After the timer goes off, serve the chicken and dumplings warm, and enjoy every sumptuous bite!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) during the last hour of cooking.
- This dish is perfect for leftovers; just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a fantastic example of using a crock pot to meld flavors over time, allowing you to create a hearty and filling meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken remains tender and the flavors melt together beautifully. Shredding the chicken and then adding the dumplings in the end allows for a delightful texture contrast.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts; however, be sure to increase the cooking time slightly as needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version or use coconut milk combined with some cornstarch for a creamy texture.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
At the end of a long day, nothing beats the simplicity and satisfaction of a slow-cooked meal that’s bursting with flavor. This crock pot chicken dumplings recipe not only fills your belly, but it also warms your heart. So gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy this delightful comfort food that’s sure to create lasting memories!