Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

 

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • Water (about one can)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 can refrigerated biscuits
  • Flour (for rolling biscuits)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Chicken Mixture:
    • Place the chicken breasts, diced onion, and cream of chicken soup in the crockpot. Add water to cover the ingredients, approximately one can’s worth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Crockpot on Low:
    • Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 3 1/2 hours. This allows the chicken to become tender and flavors to meld.
  3. Shred Chicken:
    • After 3 1/2 hours, shred the cooked chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. This will create a hearty and flavorful base for your chicken and dumplings.
  4. Prepare Dumplings:
    • In a bowl, break up the can of refrigerated biscuits. Roll each biscuit piece in flour to prevent sticking.
  5. Add Dumplings to Crockpot:
    • Drop the flour-coated biscuit pieces on top of the shredded chicken mixture in the crockpot. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
  6. Continue Cooking:
    • Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on low for an additional half hour. This allows the dumplings to cook through and absorb the delicious flavors of the chicken mixture.
  7. Check for Doneness:
    • Ensure the dumplings are fully cooked by checking their consistency. They should be soft and fluffy.
  8. Serve Warm:
    • Spoon the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve warm. The creamy broth and tender dumplings create a comforting and satisfying meal.
  9. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness. A dash of black pepper on top adds extra flavor.
  10. Enjoy:
    • Enjoy this simple and delicious crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe with your family. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings.

Note:

  • Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like carrots or peas during the cooking process for extra nutritional value and flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of poultry seasoning for an extra savory kick.

Here are some tips to make your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings even more delightful:

  1. Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup:
    • Consider making your own cream of chicken soup for a fresher taste. This allows you to control the ingredients and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
  2. Add Vegetables:
    • Increase the nutritional value by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas during the cooking process. They contribute both flavor and texture to the dish.
  3. Fresh Herbs:
    • Stir in fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.
  4. Garlic Infusion:
    • Enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic or garlic powder to the chicken mixture. Garlic complements the creamy broth and adds depth to the overall taste.
  5. Butter Biscuits:
    • Before rolling the biscuits in flour, brush them with melted butter. This adds richness and a golden-brown finish to the dumplings.
  6. Parmesan Dumplings:
    • For a savory twist, mix grated Parmesan cheese into the flour before rolling the biscuits. This adds a delicious cheesy flavor to the dumplings.
  7. Use Chicken Thighs:
    • Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more succulent and flavorful result. Thigh meat tends to stay moist during the slow cooking process.
  8. Homemade Dumplings:
    • If you have the time, consider making homemade dumplings from scratch. This allows you to control the ingredients and achieve a more personalized texture.
  9. Lemon Zest:
    • Add a touch of freshness by stirring in some lemon zest into the chicken mixture or garnishing the final dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  10. Thicken the Broth:
    • If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  11. Spices and Seasonings:
    • Experiment with additional spices like thyme, sage, or poultry seasoning to enhance the overall flavor profile. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
  12. Low-Sodium Broth:
    • Use low-sodium chicken broth to have better control over the dish’s salt content, especially if you’re using canned cream of chicken soup.
  13. Biscuit Variety:
    • Explore different types of refrigerated biscuits, such as buttermilk or flaky layers, to find the one that suits your taste preferences best.
  14. Crispy Bacon Topping:
    • Crumble crispy bacon over the top just before serving for a smoky and savory addition.
  15. Serve with a Side Salad:
    • Accompany the dish with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the chicken and dumplings.

Feel free to tailor these tips to your preferences, and enjoy creating an even more delightful Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings!

Achieving the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings involves a combination of techniques and flavors. Here are some secrets to make your dish outstanding:

  1. Layered Flavors:
    • Build layers of flavor by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before placing it in the crockpot. This ensures a well-seasoned base for the dish.
  2. Sauteed Aromatics:
    • Saute diced onions, garlic, and celery in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the depth of flavor and adds a savory dimension to the broth.
  3. Homemade Chicken Broth:
    • If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer and more authentic flavor. This allows you to control the salt content and overall quality.
  4. Herb Infusion:
    • Tie fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves in a bundle and let them infuse into the broth during cooking. Remember to remove the herb bundle before serving.
  5. Seasoned Flour for Dumplings:
    • Season the flour used for rolling the dumplings with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. This adds flavor to the dumplings from the inside out.
  6. Half-and-Half Dumplings:
    • For a mix of textures, make half of the dumplings smaller for a softer consistency and the other half slightly larger for a firmer, more substantial bite.
  7. Cornstarch Slurry:
    • If the broth needs additional thickening, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water. Stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  8. Pre-cooked Vegetables:
    • Partially cook vegetables like carrots or peas before adding them to the crockpot. This helps them maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming mushy during the slow cooking process.
  9. Use Dark Meat:
    • Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Dark meat tends to stay more succulent and flavorful during extended cooking times.
  10. Late Addition of Dairy:
    • If using dairy like cream or milk, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent curdling and ensure a creamy texture.
  11. Test Dumplings for Doneness:
    • To check if the dumplings are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the dumplings are ready.
  12. Adjust Seasonings:
    • Taste the broth before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a dash of lemon juice or a pinch of extra salt can bring out the flavors.
  13. Fresh Lemon Zest:
    • Add a touch of brightness by stirring in fresh lemon zest into the broth just before serving. This adds a subtle citrus note that enhances the overall taste.
  14. Rest Before Serving:
    • Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the dumplings reach their ideal texture.
  15. Garnish Creatively:
    • Garnish the individual servings with chopped fresh herbs, a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a visually appealing and flavorful finish.

By incorporating these secrets, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with layers of flavor and a comforting, hearty texture.

Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers related to Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:

1. Can I use frozen chicken in Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

  • While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for food safety reasons, you can use frozen chicken if you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use canned biscuits for the dumplings?

  • Yes, you can use canned biscuits for convenience. Cut the biscuits into smaller pieces before adding them to the Crockpot.

3. How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy?

  • Ensure the Crockpot is set to low heat during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the dumplings to firm up without becoming overly soggy.

4. Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings without canned soup?

  • Yes, you can make a roux-based gravy using butter, flour, and chicken broth as an alternative to canned soup. Customize the seasonings to your taste.

5. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

  • Absolutely! Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas during the last hour of cooking for additional flavor and nutrition.

6. How do I make the dumplings fluffy?

  • Roll the dumplings in seasoned flour, ensure the Crockpot is set to low heat for the last 30 minutes, and avoid opening the lid frequently to maintain steam and moisture.

7. Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings gluten-free?

  • Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for the dumplings and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Check labels to be certain.

8. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

  • Yes, bone-in chicken pieces can be used. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

9. How do I thicken the broth if it’s too thin?

  • Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water. Stir it into the Crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

10. Can I add dairy to Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings? – Yes, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or milk during the last 30 minutes for a creamier texture. Add it slowly to prevent curdling.

11. Can I use a different type of meat? – While chicken is traditional, you can experiment with other meats like turkey or even shredded cooked ham for variety.

12. Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with bone broth? – Absolutely! Using bone broth can enhance the flavor profile and add extra richness to the dish.

13. How long does it take to cook Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings? – Cook on low for approximately 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adjusting based on your Crockpot’s settings and the size of chicken pieces.

14. Can I add herbs to the dumplings for extra flavor? – Yes, you can add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dumpling dough for additional flavor.

15. How do I store and reheat leftovers? – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of extra broth if needed.

Feel free to use these answers as a reference when sharing your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe or addressing common questions about the dish!

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