Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

When it comes to comforting meals that warm the soul, nothing beats a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is not only a family favorite, but it’s also an effortless recipe that can easily fit into any busy weeknight schedule. With tender chicken thighs, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, this meal is sure to bring smiles all around the dinner table.

The Upside of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

One of the best parts of making Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the simplicity it brings to your cooking routine. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! The magic of the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Plus, the chicken thighs used in this recipe are incredibly forgiving, staying juicy and flavorful even after hours of cooking.

Shopping List

When you head to the grocery store, be sure to grab the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 egg

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy:

• Slow Cooker: This is essential for the dish, allowing for hands-off cooking.
• Chopping Board: For chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.
• Knife: A good chef’s knife will make prep work a breeze.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to delicious dumplings.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the dumpling ingredients.

Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: The Process

This is where the real fun begins! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into your slow cooker. No need to cut them up; they will become shreddable as they cook.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Chop 1 medium onion, slice 2 carrots, and slice 2 celery stalks. Add all of these to the slow cooker along with 3 cloves of minced garlic.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add 1 can of cream of chicken soup. Stir it all together gently to combine.

Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred by the end of the cooking time.

Step 5: Prepare the Dumplings

About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to whip up the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Step 6: Add Dumplings to the Slow Cooker

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot and stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Scoop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the top of the chicken mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider the following adjustments:

• Substitute half of the flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative to cut down on calories.
• Add more vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for extra nutrition.
• Replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Errors to Dodge

Even the best cooks can make mistakes sometimes. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to monitor the cooking time to avoid dry chicken.
• Not Enough Liquid: Ensure there’s enough broth; otherwise, the dumplings may not cook properly.
• Skipping the Dumplings: They are the star of the show! Don’t skip this crucial step.
• Using Frozen Chicken: Always use thawed chicken for even cooking.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s that good!), here’s how to store and reheat your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the mixture.

Ask & Learn

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may not be as juicy as thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed since breasts can cook faster.

What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning and let it do the work for you.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this dish on the stovetop in a large pot. Just simmer everything over low heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Reader Favorites

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• Blueberry Cheesecake French Toast Bake
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Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details for making Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, it’s time to gather your ingredients, dust off that slow cooker, and get cooking! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your household. Enjoy every hearty bite and the warmth it brings to your home.

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