Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy broth. This recipe is a true embodiment of home-cooked goodness, perfect for cozy evenings or busy weeknights. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the fact that you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe for its incredible flavor and the ease of preparation it offers. With just a few minutes of hands-on time, you can let your slow cooker do all the work. The dish is packed with succulent chicken and fresh vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s perfect for those following a busy lifestyle, as it allows you to have a delicious homemade dinner waiting for you when you get home. Plus, it’s a great comfort food option that fits well into colder months or rainy days, making it the ideal dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Tips and Tricks
- Use bone-in chicken: Using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts enhances the flavor of the broth and keeps the meat juicy.
- Sauté vegetables first: If you have time, sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot can deepen the flavors of your dish.
- Dumpling consistency: Make sure your dumpling batter is thick but not too dry; it should drop from a spoon. Adjust with a little milk if necessary.
- Season well: Don’t be shy with the seasonings. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavors immensely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure not to leave the chicken in the crockpot longer than necessary, as overcooked chicken can become dry and stringy.
- Skipping the sauté step: While it’s optional, skipping the sauté can result in a flat flavor profile.
- Incorrect dumpling preparation: Ensure that your dumplings are not too thick; they should puff up while cooking. If they’re too dry, they won’t rise properly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare ingredients ahead of time by chopping vegetables and seasoning the chicken. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. The chicken can also be marinated overnight for added flavor. Additionally, you can make the dumpling batter in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
Recipe Variations
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill for added flavor.
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as peas, corn, or green beans, depending on what you have on hand.
- Alternate cooking methods: If you’re in a hurry, you can make this dish on the stovetop by simmering everything in a large pot.
How to Serve
Serve your crockpot chicken and dumplings in deep bowls to allow for generous portions of broth and dumplings. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping to soak up the delicious broth.
Pairing Suggestions
For drinks, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade would work well. For sides, a simple green salad or roasted vegetables are perfect accompaniments. And for dessert, consider serving warm apple pie or a light lemon sorbet for a refreshing finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and dumplings in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth if necessary to loosen the mixture.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (crockpot)
- Large skillet (for sautéing)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can adapt this recipe to a Dutch oven or a heavy pot on the stovetop, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free dumpling mix or make your own dumplings with gluten-free flour. You can also swap chicken for plant-based protein options such as chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian or vegan adaptation.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, consider adding fresh asparagus or peas for a vibrant touch. During the summer, use fresh corn on the cob cut from the husk. In the fall and winter, root vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash can add depth and natural sweetness to the dish.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this recipe is around $10 for a batch that serves 6, translating to about $1.67 per serving. To keep it budget-friendly, choose seasonal vegetables and buy chicken in bulk or on sale.
Kitchen Hacks
- When chopping onions, soak them in cold water for a few minutes beforehand to reduce tears.
- To quickly peel garlic, crush the cloves with the flat side of a knife, and the skins will slip right off.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion out dumplings for uniform sizes, ensuring even cooking.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe; just be aware that it may take longer to cook through.
- How can I thicken the broth? If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
- Can I substitute the cream? Yes, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter option.
How To Make crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe
Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings
Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy broth.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup carrots (sliced)
- 1 cup celery (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened (about 5 minutes).
- In your crockpot, combine the sautéed vegetables with the chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumpling batter by whisking together flour, baking powder, milk, and melted butter in a mixing bowl until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the chicken mixture in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Once done, shred the chicken and stir it back into the broth and dumplings before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 686Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 18gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 253mgSodium 1556mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 2gSugar 5gProtein 43g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its ease of preparation and the ability to adapt to personal tastes and dietary needs, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you enjoy your day. Happy cooking!