Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Comfort Food Made Easy
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever had one of those days? Honestly, me too. Craving something proper comforting? This chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe is just the ticket.
It's pure, unadulterated comfort in a bowl, guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
Brief Overview
This classic dish, a staple across the pond, is all about slow cooked goodness. This is an easy chicken and dumplings crockpot version.
It's a one-pot wonder that's perfect for a chilly evening. Serves about six hungry folks.
Main Benefits
What's great about this recipe? It's proper simple. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner crockpot , plus, it's packed with protein and veggies.
The best part? You bung it all in the slow cooker chicken and dumplings and let it do its thing.
So, easy peasy!
Craving Creamy Goodness?
You know how sometimes you just want something creamy ? This recipe is it. It's chicken and dumplings slow cooker creamy goodness.
A bowl of this is like a big hug from your nan, and it has that "stick to your ribs" feeling.
Getting Real About Dumplings
Now, let's talk dumplings. We're going for the drop dumplings recipe here. No fancy rolling or cutting. Just mix and drop! It's that simple.
We could also do a chicken and dumplings with biscuits crockpot .
A One-Pot Wonder
Listen up: This recipe is a lifesaver. It's a true one-pot chicken and dumplings meal. Perfect for those nights when you just can't be bothered with a ton of washing up.
Plus, it tastes amazing.
What Makes it Special?
Honestly, it's the slow cooking that makes this recipe shine. The crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe allows all the flavours to meld together.
It creates a rich, savoury broth that's just divine. It's almost like a chicken stew with dumplings crockpot style.
Alright, let’s get cracking on this chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe. It's proper comfort food, innit? Like a warm hug on a rainy day. Let's dive into what you'll need.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!
This easy chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe isn't complicated. Trust me, even I can manage it after a few pints down the pub. Here’s what you'll need.
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Dish
Okay, pay attention, because measurements matter! No one wants a soggy dumpling.
Chicken & Broth:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Or breasts.
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil. Go for extra virgin, yeah?
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. About a cup (150g).
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped. Another cup (120g).
- 2 celery stalks, chopped. You guessed it, another cup (100g).
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. 'Cause garlic makes everything better.
- 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium chicken broth.
- 1 tsp dried thyme.
- ½ tsp dried rosemary.
- ¼ tsp black pepper.
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour.
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream. Half and-half works too.
- Salt to taste.
Dumplings:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour.
- 2 tsp baking powder.
- ½ tsp salt.
- ¾ cup (180ml) milk.
- 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, melted.
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life!
Don't be shy with those spices, love!
- Thyme and rosemary are essential here. They give that classic comfort food recipe vibe.
- Garlic is a must for flavor depth. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- No rosemary? Oregano's a decent substitute. Just use half the amount.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!
You don’t need fancy gadgets for this slow cooker chicken and dumplings .
- 6-quart slow cooker /Crockpot. Obviously.
- Large skillet. For searing the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons. 'Cause eyeballing it never works.
- Mixing bowls.
- Whisk.
- Ladle.
If you don't have a skillet, don't sweat it. You can skip the searing step. It adds flavor, but this one-pot chicken and dumplings is still lush without it.
Using a chicken stew with dumplings crockpot style of preparing will reduce the amount of work required. I hope this helps and inspires you when making chicken and dumplings slow cooker creamy goodness!
Right then, let's talk chicken and dumplings crockpot . Honestly, who doesn't love a good comfort food recipe that practically cooks itself? This one’s a total winner.
It's proper easy, and the slow cooker does all the graft. Fancy some easy chicken and dumplings crockpot ? Let's get started!
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Before we even think about switching on the slow cooker chicken and dumplings , let's get organized. This is your mise en place , darling.
Chop your onion, carrots and celery. Mince that garlic. Honestly, it'll make the whole thing so much smoother. Safety first, too, yeah? Watch your fingers with that knife! This is where the time saving begins!
step-by-step Process: Easy peasy
Right, here's how we nail this crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe :
- Brown your chicken in a pan. It adds flavour, trust me.
- Sauté the veg. Onions, carrots, celery, the whole shebang.
- Chuck it all in the crockpot. Chicken, veg, chicken broth , herbs, pepper.
- Cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 3- 4 hours . The chicken should be so tender, oh my gosh!
- Thicken the broth with a flour slurry.
- Make the drop dumplings. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, milk and melted butter. Don’t overmix.
- Drop dollops into the stew.
- Cook another 15- 20 minutes on high , until they're cooked through.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Dumplings
Okay, listen up, you wanna make this chicken stew with dumplings crockpot amazing ? Here’s the goss:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Do it in batches.
- Don't overmix the dumpling batter . It’ll make 'em tough, and nobody wants that.
- Taste the dumplings . Make sure that they are cooked. If you test one, you're golden.
Seriously, making chicken and dumplings slow cooker creamy version has never been this simple. Plus, it's proper cheap and cheerful.
Enjoy this weeknight dinner crockpot idea with your friends or family! Fancy some drop dumplings recipe ? Let's cook!
Recipe Notes for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings Crockpot
Alright, let's talk about making this chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe amazing . Honestly, there are a few little things that can really elevate this dish from good to gobsmacking .
You know? So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and let's get into the nitty gritty. I'll share a few personal tricks to making this the best easy chicken and dumplings crockpot you've ever had.
Serving Suggestions It’s All About the Presentation
Presentation matters, even with something as rustic as chicken stew with dumplings crockpot . I like to serve mine in a deep bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
It just makes it look a bit fancy, you know? A dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche can add a lovely tang.
I also love adding a side of crusty bread for mopping up all that delicious gravy.
Storage Tips Keepin' it Fresh, Mate
Got leftovers? No worries! This comfort food recipe keeps well. Just let it cool completely before popping it into an airtight container.
In the fridge, it'll be good for up to 3 days . If you fancy freezing it, that works too! Just be aware that the dumplings might lose a bit of their texture.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it nice and saucy. Reheat until piping hot at 165° F ( 74° C) .
Variations Make it Your Own
Fancy a twist? No problem! For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and olive oil in the dumplings. You can also swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk.
I've even used sweet potato in place of carrots in autumn for a more seasonal flavor it's incredible !
Nutrition Basics Goodness in a Bowl
This one-pot chicken and dumplings isn’t just delicious, it's pretty good for you too! Chicken is a great source of lean protein.
The vegetables add vitamins and fiber. Of course, the dumplings do add some carbs, so maybe go easy on the bread.
But hey, it's all about balance, innit?
So there you have it, my friends! All my top tips for making the ultimate slow cooker chicken and dumplings .
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Cooking should be fun, so go on, get in the kitchen and give it a go! I guarantee you'll be hooked on this chicken and dumplings slow cooker creamy version!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe ahead of time?
You can prep some elements ahead of time! Sauté the vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also mix the dry dumpling ingredients. However, it's best to cook the chicken and dumplings fresh for the best texture. Nobody wants soggy dumplings!
How do I stop my dumplings from turning out like lead balloons in my chicken and dumplings crockpot?
Ah, the dreaded heavy dumpling! The key is not to overmix the batter. Just stir until the dry ingredients are barely combined with the wet. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough dumplings. Also, make sure your crockpot is hot enough when you drop them in and resist the urge to peek while they're cooking!
What's the best way to store leftover chicken and dumplings?
Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be aware that the dumplings might absorb some of the liquid and become a bit softer. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. I wouldn't recommend freezing it, as the dumpling texture really suffers.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, like a Sunday roast!
Can I use frozen vegetables in this chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a convenient time saver. Add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing. A bag of mixed frozen vegetables, like peas, carrots, and green beans, works perfectly.
Just keep in mind that they might release a bit more liquid, so you might want to reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly.
My chicken and dumplings crockpot broth is too thin! Help!
No worries, easily fixed! Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can mix a bit more flour with cold water (as in the original recipe) and add that in.
Remember, little by little is the key you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Is crockpot chicken and dumplings healthy?
Crockpot chicken and dumplings can be part of a balanced diet. Using lean chicken, low-sodium broth, and adding plenty of vegetables increases the nutritional value. You can also lighten it up by using less cream or substituting it with a lower fat option like evaporated milk.
Remember to consider portion sizes, like with any delicious comfort food!
Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings Comfort Food Made
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
