Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings: Easy Comfort Food

Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe! Weeknights can be hectic, and sometimes the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is your secret weapon for delicious, home-cooked goodness with minimal effort. Just toss a few ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. The result? Tender, flavorful chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth that will warm you from the inside out.

This recipe is not only simple but also customizable. You can easily adapt it to your family’s preferences by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

* Effortless: Minimal prep time – just throw everything in the crockpot and let it cook.
* Comforting: A classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
* Flavorful: Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth.
* Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your liking with different vegetables or seasonings.
* Family-Friendly: A dish that everyone will enjoy, even picky eaters.

Key Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients you’ll need:

* Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Chicken thighs will result in a more flavorful and tender dish.
* Cream of Chicken Soup: This provides the creamy base for the broth. You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
* Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and helps to create the perfect broth consistency.
* Biscuits: Refrigerated biscuit dough is the secret to easy and fluffy dumplings. I recommend using the flaky layer kind for the best texture.
* Vegetables: Diced carrots, celery, and onion add flavor and nutrients to the dish. You can also add other vegetables like peas or corn.
* Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the flavor of the chicken and broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Here’s a simple guide to making this delicious crockpot chicken and dumplings:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add Vegetables and Soup: Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the crockpot. Pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth.
3. Season: Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
5. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
6. Add Dumplings: Cut the biscuit dough into quarters or smaller pieces. Drop the biscuit pieces into the crockpot, spacing them evenly.
7. Cook Dumplings: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and golden brown.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

* Don’t Overcook the Dumplings: Keep an eye on the dumplings while they’re cooking. Overcooked dumplings can become tough and gummy.
* Use High-Quality Biscuits: The quality of the biscuit dough will affect the texture of the dumplings. I recommend using a brand that you know and trust.
* Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the crockpot, such as peas, corn, or green beans.
* Adjust the Broth Consistency: If the broth is too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the crockpot.
* For Extra Flavor: Add a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the crockpot while the chicken is cooking.

Variations and Add-Ins

* Rotisserie Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker and easier meal.
* Cream Cheese: Stir in a block of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra creamy and rich broth.
* Hot Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce for a little bit of heat.
* Italian Seasoning: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a more complex flavor.

Conclusion

This crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe is a true weeknight winner! It’s easy to make, incredibly comforting, and sure to please the whole family. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table. So, ditch the takeout and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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