Description

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and hearty. This dish combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all simmered together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Using a slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly convenient, allowing you to prepare the ingredients in the morning and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to make this delightful meal!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup carrots, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup celery, chopped (optional)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• For the Dumplings:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and any additional vegetables such as carrots and celery.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup. Stir to combine the ingredients.
Step 2: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to ensure everything is well mixed.
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumplings
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be lumpy.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Once the chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the Crock Pot and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the Crock Pot and stir in the frozen peas if using.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the top of the chicken mixture in the Crock Pot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Step 5: Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked, ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!

Tips and Conclusion

Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor.
Vegetable Additions: You can incorporate other vegetables such as corn or green beans according to your preference.
Make it Creamier: For a creamier texture, you can add more cream of chicken soup or a splash of heavy cream before serving.

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful and easy recipe that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food. With its tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with others who love delicious, easy-to-make meals! Enjoy every spoonful!