I still remember the first time I tried making Crockpot Chicken Dumplings. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was looking for a comforting meal that would warm my soul. I had just discovered this recipe in an old family cookbook and was intrigued by its simplicity. The idea of having a delicious, hearty dinner ready with minimal effort was too tempting to resist. So, I gathered the ingredients, tossed them in my crockpot, and let it do the magic. By the time dinner rolled around, my home was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of chicken and dumplings, and I instantly felt like a culinary hero.
What is Crockpot Chicken Dumplings
Crockpot Chicken Dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that consists of tender chicken simmered in a creamy sauce, with fluffy dumplings cooked on top. This recipe is well-loved for its ease and the delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chicken becomes incredibly tender while slow-cooked, soaking up the rich flavors of the broth and seasonings. Meanwhile, the biscuit dough dumplings puff up beautifully, creating the perfect contrast to the savory chicken. Whether enjoyed on a rainy day or during a cozy family gathering, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Dumplings:
There are so many reasons to love making Crockpot Chicken Dumplings. Here are just a few:
- Quick and simple to prepare
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will enjoy
- Can be customized with a variety of vegetables
- Ideal for meal prepping or leftovers
This dish’s convenience is unrivaled, as you can throw everything into the crockpot in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious meal without the hassle of additional cooking.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Crockpot Chicken Dumplings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
These simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a dish that resonates with the heart and palate.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken Dumplings
Creating your Crockpot Chicken Dumplings is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Place Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breast in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
- Cooking Time: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Prepare Dumplings: About 30 minutes before serving, take the biscuit dough, cut it into quarters, and add it to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine with the chicken and sauce.
- Final Cooking Stage: Cover and cook for the remaining time until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked, give it a good stir and serve hot for a comforting meal.
This straightforward process makes it easy to serve up a warm, filling dinner with minimal effort and time.
Pro Tips and Variations:
To elevate your Crockpot Chicken Dumplings even further, consider these pro tips and variations:
- Add Fresh Herbs: Include fresh parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Veggie Variations: Try adding diced potatoes or fresh spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Different Chicken Cuts: Use thighs for a richer flavor, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick fix.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a little heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute with coconut milk and a dairy-free cream soup for a lighter approach.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to personalize the recipe to your own tastes and dietary preferences while maintaining its comfort food essence.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Dumplings
When it comes to serving this delicious dish, here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Pair with Salad: Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dumplings.
- Bread Options: Warm some crusty bread or rolls on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Simple Side Dishes: Consider pairing it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
- Comfort Beverage: Serve with hot tea or a warm apple cider for a cozy ambiance.
These serving ideas will ensure that every meal featuring your Crockpot Chicken Dumplings is satisfying and well-rounded.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Dumplings
Leftovers from your Crockpot Chicken Dumplings can be enjoyed later. Here’s how to store them correctly:
- In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing Options: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just be cautious that the texture of the dumplings may change slightly upon reheating.
- Reheating Tips: To reheat, warm over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary, to maintain the creamy consistency.
Proper storage will allow you to savor each comforting bite, even several days later.
Nutrition Information
For those mindful of nutrition, here’s a general idea of what a serving of Crockpot Chicken Dumplings includes:
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
These values can vary depending on the specific brands of the ingredients used, but this dish remains a balanced and hearty option.
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Dumplings
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour if cooking on low.Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the biscuit dough. Look for gluten-free biscuit options or make your dumplings from scratch using gluten-free flour.Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables such as carrots, peas, or corn to enhance flavor and nutrition.How do I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth along with a plant-based cream of soup alternative.
Conclusion
Trying out Crockpot Chicken Dumplings can transform an ordinary weeknight into a delightful dinner experience. With minimal effort, you can put together a wholesome, flavorful meal that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply treating yourself, this dish has everything you need. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience; nothing makes cooking more enjoyable than sharing your culinary success.
Crockpot Chicken Dumplings
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken breast in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
- Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, take the biscuit dough, cut it into quarters, and add it to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine with the chicken and sauce.
- Cover and cook for the remaining time until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Once everything is cooked, give it a good stir and serve hot.