Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Next, add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery on top of the chicken.
2. Add Cream of Chicken Soup and Broth
Pour the can of cream of chicken soup over the vegetables and chicken, spreading it evenly. Then, add the chicken broth, ensuring everything is well coated. The broth will keep the dish moist and flavorful during cooking.
3. Slow Cook the Mixture
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the broth and vegetables.
5. Prepare the Dumplings
Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters to create small dumplings. Gently drop the biscuit pieces into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed over the top.
6. Cook the Dumplings
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through. The time may vary based on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on them.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the dumplings are cooked, give the mixture a gentle stir. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a simple green salad or bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality chicken and broth.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a heartwarming dish that brings the comfort of home-cooked meals to your table with minimal effort. With tender chicken, a creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of this classic comfort food tonight!
