Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is just what you need! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 carrots, sliced
– 4 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 1 can refrigerated biscuits
**Instructions:**
1. Place chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add cream of chicken soup, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
4. Shred the chicken and add frozen peas. Mix well.
5. Cut biscuits into quarters and place on top of the chicken mixture.
6. Cook on high for an additional 1 hour, or until biscuits are cooked through.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 30g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?**
*It is best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they cook faster and are easier to shred.*
2. **Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?**
*Yes, you can substitute fresh thyme for dried thyme. Use double the amount if using fresh.*
3. **Can I use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought?**
*Yes, homemade chicken broth will add even more flavor to the dish.*
4. **Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?**
*Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or corn.*
5. **Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**
*You can use a gluten-free alternative for the biscuits or omit them altogether.*
6. **Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?**
*This dish freezes well, but the biscuits may become soggy when reheated.*
7. **Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?**
*You can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.*
8. **Can I add herbs like rosemary or sage for more flavor?**
*Adding additional herbs can enhance the taste of the dish.*
9. **Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of chicken?**
*Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used as alternatives.*
10. **Can I add more spices for extra kick?**
*Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.*
**Helpful tips:**
1. *For a creamier texture, stir in a half cup of heavy cream before adding the biscuits.*
2. *Top with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.*
3. *Add a splash of white wine for a more complex flavor.*
4. *If the dish is too thick, thin it out with some additional chicken broth.*
5. *Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.*
6. *Experiment with different types of biscuits for a unique twist.*
7. *To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken.*
8. *Try adding a splash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.*
9. *Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness.*
10. *Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick and easy meal later.*
**Expert Secrets:**
1. *Allow the flavors to meld together by cooking the dish on low for a longer period of time.*
2. *To prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy, place them on top of the chicken mixture right before serving.*
3. *Adjust the seasoning to your liking by tasting and adjusting as needed throughout the cooking process.*
4. *For a healthier version, use low-sodium cream of chicken soup and broth.*
5. *For a thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the slow cooker.*
6. *For a richer flavor, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery before adding to the slow cooker.*
7. *Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.*
8. *For a heartier meal, add cooked bacon or ham to the chicken mixture.*
9. *Top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for added zing.*
10. *Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to develop before serving.*
