Looking for a simple yet delicious family meal? Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings is the answer! This dish is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare—just gather your ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic. Elevate your weeknight dinners with steps that even kids can help with. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on this cozy classic!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
Chicken is the star of this dish. I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for their flavor and moisture. The broth adds depth, while the veggies bring color and nutrients. Carrots, celery, and onion create a savory base, and garlic amps up the taste. Thyme and rosemary add a classic touch, making the dish feel warm and cozy.
Optional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Heavy cream gives your chicken and dumplings extra richness. It makes the broth creamy and smooth. Fresh parsley adds a bright pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can choose to use these for extra flair, or keep it simple.
Kitchen Tools Needed
– Slow cooker
– Chopping board
– Knife
You need a slow cooker to make this dish easy. It does all the work while you relax. A chopping board and knife help you prep the veggies. Good tools make cooking more fun and keep your kitchen safe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary. Make sure to coat each piece well. This adds great flavor to the dish.
Adding Vegetables
Next, chop the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Layer these chopped vegetables on top of the chicken. The colors make the dish look nice! Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over everything. This ensures that all the ingredients are submerged. The broth adds moisture and depth to the meal.
Cooking Process
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, if you want a creamier dish, stir in the heavy cream.
Open the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Drop the pieces into the slow cooker evenly. Cover and cook on high for an extra 30-40 minutes. This makes the dumplings fluffy and tender.
Finally, add the frozen peas and gently stir them in. This adds a nice pop of color and flavor. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Fluffy Dumplings
To make fluffy dumplings, mix the biscuit dough gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Cut each biscuit into quarters before adding them to the slow cooker. This helps them cook evenly. Adjust the cooking time as needed. If your dumplings seem undercooked, leave them in for a few more minutes. They should be soft and fluffy when done.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, add herbs and spices to the slow cooker. Fresh thyme and rosemary can elevate the taste. You can also sprinkle some parsley for color. If you want a creamier dish, stir in heavy cream about 30 minutes before serving. This adds richness and depth to the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken and dumplings in deep bowls. This keeps everything warm and cozy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. A sprinkle of black pepper can add a bit of spice. For sides, consider a simple green salad or crusty bread. These pair well and complete the meal.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make simple swaps to make this dish healthier. Start with chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast has less fat, which cuts calories. It will still be juicy if you cook it right.
You can also use low-carb biscuits to cut carbs. Look for options made with almond flour or coconut flour. They taste great and fit into many diets.
Different Flavor Profiles
Want to add some spice? Try adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. This will give your meal a kick. You can also add hot sauce for extra heat.
If you want a vegetarian version, use mushrooms instead of chicken. They add a nice meaty texture. You can use a mix of shiitake and cremini for depth of flavor.
International Twists
To bring in Asian flavors, add some soy sauce or ginger. A splash of sesame oil can also boost the taste. You might even try adding bok choy for added crunch.
For a Southern twist, consider adding a bit of hot sauce or smoked paprika. This will give your dish a warm, smoky flavor. You can even serve it with cornbread for a true Southern experience.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your chicken and dumplings, let them cool first. I recommend using a shallow dish for quick cooling. This helps prevent bacteria growth. Once cooled, transfer them to airtight containers. Glass containers work great. You can also use plastic ones, but ensure they are safe for food storage.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Make sure to cool them completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Remember to label each bag with the date. To reheat from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, heat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently, until warmed through.
Shelf Life
For the best taste, eat the leftovers within three to four days. To keep your meal fresh, store it in the fridge right away. Signs of spoilage include an off smell, discoloration, or mold. If you notice any of these, throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just remember to thaw them first. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Set it to the defrost setting and check often. This way, the chicken stays safe and ready to cook.
How do I make the dumplings from scratch?
Making dumplings from scratch is easy! Here’s a simple recipe:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup melted butter
1. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Stir in the milk and melted butter until combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the dough over your slow cooker mixture.
4. Cook until they puff up and are cooked through.
Now you have homemade dumplings to enjoy!
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
You can pair chicken and dumplings with many tasty sides. Here are some great options:
– Steamed green beans
– Roasted broccoli
– A fresh garden salad
– Mashed potatoes
These sides add some crunch and color to your meal. Enjoy!
In this article, we explored how to make chicken and dumplings. We discussed the main ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and seasonings, along with optional cream and herbs. I provided step-by-step instructions to help you prepare and cook this dish perfectly.
You can use tips to make fluffy dumplings and variations for your preferences. Remember, storage is key for leftovers. Enjoy crafting your chicken and dumplings, and feel confident making them your own!
