Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion, slice the carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic.
- Layer in the CrockPot:
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the CrockPot. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery on top of the chicken. Sprinkle with garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup, stirring gently to combine.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the CrockPot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender, easily shredding with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken:
- About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the CrockPot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the Dumplings:
- Open the can of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Drop the biscuit pieces into the soup mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the dumplings are done, give the soup a gentle stir. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the comforting goodness!
Tips for Making the Best CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results, or use breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the broth before adding the dumplings.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings is a complete meal in itself, but you can pair it with:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Simple Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette can complement the richness of the dish.
- Fruit Compote: For a refreshing finish, consider serving a side of fruit compote or a fruit salad.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the dumplings may lose their texture after freezing. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker takes care of all the cooking, allowing you to set it and forget it.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a perfect family meal.
- Nourishing and Hearty: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice that satisfies.
Conclusion
CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make and full of flavor. Perfect for busy days, this recipe delivers a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, set your CrockPot, and enjoy the cozy goodness of this classic dish. Whether for a family dinner or a comforting meal on a cold day, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Feel free to tweak any part of the article to match your style or preferences!
