Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: Crock-Pot Comfort Food
Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this Crock-Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe! This classic dish is perfect for a chilly evening, and the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. Let's dive into this simple yet delicious recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple instructions for perfectly cooked Chicken and Dumplings:
Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
Start by sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. This step enhances the flavor of your dish. This adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
Step 2: Crock-Pot Cooking
Place the sautéed vegetables and chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
Step 3: Preparing the Dumplings
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and oil until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Adding Dumplings to the Crock-Pot
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. Gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the top of the chicken and broth mixture.
Step 5: Finishing the Dish
Cover and cook on low for another 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. You'll know they're done when they're lightly golden brown on top.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Chicken and Dumplings hot, straight from the slow cooker. Consider these additions for an even more satisfying meal:
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Side dishes: Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Variations: Experiment with different vegetables, such as potatoes or peas. You can also add other herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Tips for the Best Crock-Pot Chicken and Dumplings:
- Don't overmix the dumplings: Overmixing will result in tough dumplings.
- Use a good quality chicken broth: This will significantly impact the overall flavor.
- Adjust cooking time as needed: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker.
This Crock-Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The slow cooker makes it incredibly convenient, while the result is a comforting and delicious meal. Enjoy!
