Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Are you in need of a cozy and comforting meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than our Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe! With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich and creamy broth, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this soul-warming meal will fill your home with irresistible aromas and leave your taste buds singing with delight. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

Chicken Soup:

• 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped (about 1/2 medium onion)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup carrot, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter, sliced
• 14 oz chicken broth
• 20 oz condensed cream of chicken soup (2 cans)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

Biscuits:

• 2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (can be substituted with water)
• (Alternatively, canned biscuit dough can be used)

Instructions:

Chicken Soup:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion, grate the carrot, and chop the parsley.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, frozen peas, grated carrot, chopped parsley, and sliced butter on top of the chicken.
3. Add Broth and Soup: Pour the chicken broth and condensed cream of chicken soup over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Biscuits:

1. Prepare Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the milk (or water), stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Form Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough onto the surface of the chicken soup in the slow cooker, making sure they are evenly spaced apart.
3. Cook Dumplings: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

Serve:

1. Serve Warm: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, making sure to include plenty of broth, chicken, and vegetables in each serving.
2. Garnish: Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
3. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious meal!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Creamy Texture: For an even creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last hour of cooking.
• Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as celery, corn, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and seasonings such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder to customize the flavor to your liking.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute the flour in the biscuit dough with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb alternative. You can also omit the carrots to further reduce the carb content.
• Low-Carb Variation: Replace the biscuits with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative to traditional dumplings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for this recipe. However, keep in mind that thighs may require slightly longer cooking time.

Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps as outlined in the recipe, but instead of using a slow cooker, simmer the ingredients in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat until the chicken is cooked through and the dumplings are tender.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

With its rich and comforting flavors, our Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the perfect remedy for chilly days and hungry stomachs. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this classic dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker work its magic as you prepare to enjoy a bowlful of warmth and happiness!