Introduction:
Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This classic comfort food is perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. With its rich and comforting flavors, Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved dish in American cuisine, with roots tracing back to Southern cooking traditions. It is often enjoyed as a comforting meal during the cooler months, offering warmth and nourishment to those who enjoy it. The slow cooker adaptation of this dish makes it even more convenient, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy the flavors of homemade chicken and dumplings with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Stew:
- 2 pounds (about 900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Preparation Method:
- In the slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts or thighs, chicken broth, water, chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and heavy cream or half-and-half. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Cut in the cold diced butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the milk and chopped fresh parsley (if using) until a soft dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the chicken stew mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high heat for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve the Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, you can brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Add your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the chicken stew.
- Be careful not to overmix the dumpling dough, as this can result in tough dumplings.
- Make sure the slow cooker is set to the appropriate temperature to ensure the chicken and dumplings cook evenly.
- Leftover chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is typically rich in protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins from the chicken, vegetables, and dumplings. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings, this dish is sure to warm your heart and soul with every bite. Serve it alongside a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal that will leave everyone feeling nourished and satisfied.
- Ultimate Potato Rolls
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole
- Decadent Herb-Infused Butter for Steak
- Key Lime Pound Cake