CROCKPOT CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS

Comforting Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Introduction: When it comes to cozy, comforting meals, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a timeless classic. This dish combines tender chunks of chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth that’s packed with flavor. It’s the perfect meal to warm your soul on a chilly day or to enjoy anytime you crave a taste of home-cooked goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a bowl of pure comfort.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken Stew:

1. In the bottom of your slow cooker, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
2. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. If you prefer larger pieces of chicken, you can remove the breasts, shred them, and then return the chicken to the slow cooker.
6. If using, add the frozen peas and corn to the slow cooker. Stir to incorporate them into the stew.

Make the Dumplings: 7. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

8. Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.
9. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the hot chicken stew. You should have about 8-10 dumplings, evenly spaced.
10. Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy in the center.

Serve and Enjoy: 11. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.

12. Ladle generous portions of the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings into bowls.
13. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish.

Cook’s Notes:

• Feel free to customize the vegetables to your preference. Peas, corn, green beans, or even diced potatoes can be great additions.
• You can add a touch of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme for extra flavor just before serving.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

 Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food. This dish brings together tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth that’s perfect for warming your heart and soul. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a comforting meal for one, this recipe is a timeless favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Cozy up and savor every spoonful of this delightful dish!