Recipes

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe 2023

 

 

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 3 stalks of celery, chopped
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can flaky biscuits (8-count)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Vegetables:
    • Chop celery, carrots, and onion. Place them in the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Layer Chicken:
    • Lay the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables in the crockpot.
  3. Add Cream of Chicken and Broth:
    • Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables.
  4. Seasoning:
    • Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Feel free to include additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
  5. Cook on Low:
    • Set the crockpot to low heat and cook for 6 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, and the chicken becomes tender.
  6. Shred Chicken:
    • After 6 hours, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
  7. Prepare Biscuits:
    • Cut each biscuit into bite-sized pieces.
  8. Add Biscuits and Shredded Chicken:
    • Stir the shredded chicken and biscuit pieces back into the crockpot. Ensure they are evenly distributed.
  9. Cook on High:
    • Increase the crockpot temperature to high and continue cooking for an additional 1.5 hours. This allows the biscuits to cook and absorb the flavors of the soup.
  10. Check Consistency:
    • If the soup is too thick, you can add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
  11. Adjust Seasoning:
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
  12. Serve Hot:
    • Ladle the delicious chicken and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  13. Enjoy:
    • Serve hot and savor the comforting goodness of this crockpot chicken and dumplings!

Note:

  • Feel free to customize the recipe by adding frozen peas, corn, or other vegetables of your choice.
  • Experiment with different biscuit varieties for unique flavors in your dumplings.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk during the last hour of cooking.

 

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

  1. Homemade Chicken Broth:
    • If time allows, consider using homemade chicken broth for an extra depth of flavor. You can prepare it in advance or use store-bought for convenience.
  2. Fresh Herbs:
    • Add a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for a fragrant and herbaceous touch.
  3. Sauté Vegetables:
    • Sauté the chopped onions before adding them to the crockpot. This extra step enhances their sweetness and adds a rich flavor to the dish.
  4. Season Chicken Before Cooking:
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder before placing them in the crockpot. This ensures the chicken itself is well-seasoned.
  5. Adjust Biscuit Size:
    • Cut the biscuits into slightly larger pieces if you prefer dumplings with a heartier texture. Adjusting the size can impact the overall mouthfeel of the dish.
  6. Buttermilk Biscuits:
    • Consider using buttermilk biscuits for a tangy flavor and tender texture in the dumplings.
  7. Add Frozen Peas:
    • Add a cup of frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of color and sweetness. They complement the dish well.
  8. Fresh Lemon Zest:
    • Stir in a bit of fresh lemon zest just before serving to add a bright and refreshing note to the soup.
  9. Finish with Fresh Parsley:
    • Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
  10. Creamy Variation:
    • If you prefer a creamier consistency, mix in a small amount of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last hour of cooking.
  11. Cheese Topping:
    • Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top of each serving for a savory kick.
  12. Dumplings Variation:
    • Experiment with different dumpling variations, such as adding a pinch of dried herbs to the biscuit dough or using a drop biscuit method for a rustic feel.
  13. Garlic Butter Drizzle:
    • Create a garlic butter drizzle by melting butter with minced garlic. Drizzle this over the finished dish just before serving for extra richness.
  14. Adjust Cooking Time:
    • Keep an eye on the cooking time, as overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables. Adjust the cooking time based on the tenderness you prefer for your veggies.
  15. Serve with a Side Salad:
    • Accompany your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with a crisp side salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.

Feel free to mix and match these tips based on your preferences, and enjoy your delightful Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings!

Popular Questions and Answers:

Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe :

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe?

A: While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for food safety reasons, you can use frozen chicken breasts in a pinch. However, be aware that using frozen chicken may increase the cooking time. It’s crucial to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding it.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?

A: Yes, you can make the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time. Once cooked, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding more broth or water if needed to reach the desired consistency.

Q: Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

A: Freezing the entire dish may affect the texture of the dumplings, as they can become mushy upon thawing. If you plan to freeze portions, consider freezing the shredded chicken and broth separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat the chicken and broth, then prepare fresh dumplings to add to the reheated mixture.

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be a flavorful alternative to chicken breasts. They tend to be more moist and can add richness to the dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed, and ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature before shredding.

Q: What is the purpose of the cream of chicken soup in this recipe? Can I use a homemade substitute?

A: The cream of chicken soup adds creaminess and flavor to the broth. While you can make a homemade substitute, using a canned soup provides convenience. To make a substitute, mix equal parts chicken broth and a roux (butter and flour) with a splash of cream. Season to taste. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary compared to the canned version.

Q: Can I use a different type of biscuit for the dumplings?

A: Yes, you can use different types of biscuits for the dumplings. Consider using buttermilk biscuits or even homemade biscuit dough. Adjust the size of the dumplings based on your preference, and feel free to experiment with different biscuit varieties for unique flavors.

Feel free to tailor these answers based on your preferences and any specific considerations you might have!

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

  1. Sear the Chicken:
    • Before placing the chicken in the crockpot, consider searing it in a hot skillet with a bit of oil. This adds a layer of flavor and enhances the appearance of the chicken.
  2. Use Bone-In Chicken:
    • For added richness and flavor, consider using bone-in chicken pieces. The bones contribute to a more savory broth.
  3. Homemade Chicken Broth:
    • If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a more robust flavor. Alternatively, choose a high-quality store-bought option.
  4. Add Herbs:
    • Introduce fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic touch. Tie herbs in a bundle with kitchen twine for easy removal before serving.
  5. Butter for Dumplings:
    • Consider using melted butter in the biscuit dough for the dumplings. This adds richness and a buttery flavor.
  6. Adjust Seasoning at the End:
    • Taste and adjust the seasoning of the soup towards the end of the cooking process. This allows you to fine-tune the flavor based on your preferences.
  7. Mix Biscuit Dough Gently:
    • When preparing the biscuit dough, mix it just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense and tough dumplings.
  8. Drop Dumplings Carefully:
    • Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough into the hot liquid with care. Avoid stirring the dumplings once they are added to prevent them from breaking apart.
  9. High Heat for Dumplings:
    • Ensure the crockpot is on high heat when adding the dumplings. This helps them cook properly and prevents them from becoming too doughy.
  10. Fresh Garlic for Depth:
    • Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more pronounced and nuanced garlic flavor in the soup.
  11. Vegetable Additions:
    • Enhance the dish by adding vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or corn during the last hour of cooking for additional flavor and texture.
  12. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
    • Stir in freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for a burst of freshness.
  13. Thin with Chicken Broth:
    • If the soup becomes too thick during cooking, thin it out with additional chicken broth until it reaches the desired consistency.
  14. Let Dumplings Absorb Flavor:
    • Allow the dumplings to absorb the flavors of the soup by letting them cook in the hot liquid for an adequate amount of time.
  15. Patience for Optimal Flavor:
    • While it’s tempting to check on the dish frequently, allowing it to simmer and develop flavors over time results in a more flavorful outcome. Be patient!

By incorporating these secrets, you’ll be on your way to creating a Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.