Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy
Slow cooker recipes are the epitome of convenience, and this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe takes that convenience to a whole new level. Forget slaving over a hot stove – this recipe lets your slow cooker do all the work, resulting in a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Special?
This isn't your average chicken and dumplings recipe. We've focused on maximizing flavor and minimizing effort. Here's what sets it apart:
- Tender Chicken: The slow cooking process ensures incredibly tender, juicy chicken that practically falls off the bone.
- Flavorful Broth: We've built a rich and savory broth using simple ingredients that complement the chicken perfectly.
- Easy Dumplings: The dumplings are simple to make and cook right in the crockpot, saving you time and dishes.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the vegetables and herbs to your liking. Add carrots, celery, or even some fresh thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick grocery store run. You'll need:
- Chicken: About 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Broth: 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred).
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chopped carrots (optional).
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Dumplings: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons melted butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broth
- Place the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper in your slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard the skin and bones.
Step 4: Make the Dumplings
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk and melted butter; stir until just combined. Do not overmix. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
Step 5: Add Dumplings and Finish Cooking
- Gently stir the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the top of the chicken and broth.
- Cover and cook on low for another 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. A side of crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment.
Tips and Variations:
- Frozen Chicken: You can use frozen chicken breasts; just add about an hour to the cooking time.
- Different Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like celery, peas, or green beans.
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for extra flavor.
- Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, whisk 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, deliciousness, and ease of preparation make it an ideal meal for any occasion. Enjoy!
