Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings : when the weather turns cool, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings. This Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings recipe is perfect for those chilly days when all you want is a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can have a delicious and filling dinner waiting for you after a busy day. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a favorite and how to make it.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to be a master chef or have advanced cooking skills; just follow the simple steps and let the slow cooker do the work.

This dish is also very comforting. The tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth create a warm and satisfying meal that will make everyone feel at home. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can adjust to suit your tastes. Whether you like extra vegetables or prefer a richer broth, you can easily customize it.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and enjoy it for days, making it the ideal choice for busy families or anyone who wants to save time in the kitchen.

How to Prepare Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

Making Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings is straightforward. This section will guide you through the essential ingredients and the simple directions for this delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of carrots, diced
• 1 cup of celery, diced
• 1 cup of onion, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 2 cups of refrigerated biscuit dough
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by greasing your crockpot with a little oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. You want to use fresh or thawed chicken for the best results.
3. Add the Vegetables: Next, add the diced carrots, celery, and chopped onion on top of the chicken. These vegetables will give the dish flavor and nutrition.
4. Mix the Broth and Soup: In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until everything is blended together.
5. Combine: Pour the broth mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot. Make sure everything is nicely coated.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. This allows the chicken to cook thoroughly and become tender.
7. Prepare the Dumplings: About 30 minutes before serving, cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters. You can use kitchen scissors or a knife for this.
8. Add Dumplings: Carefully drop the biscuit pieces into the crockpot. Cover it again and let them cook for the last 30 minutes, until fluffy and cooked through.
9. Shred the Chicken: If you like, take the chicken out, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. This step is optional, but it helps to mix the chicken more evenly into the dish.
10. Finish Up: Stir everything together gently and taste for seasoning. You can adjust the flavor with a little more salt or pepper if needed.

How to Serve Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

Serving Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings is just as easy as making it. Here are a few tips on how to serve this warm and hearty dish:

• In Bowls: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into deep bowls. This will keep everything warm and make it easier to enjoy.
• Garnish: If you want to add a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top. This adds color and a bit of fresh flavor.
• With Sides: You can also serve this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. A slice of cornbread would complement the meal perfectly, too.
• For a Bigger Meal: If you are serving a larger crowd, consider making some additional sides like green beans or mashed potatoes for a complete feast.

How to Store Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

If you have leftovers (which is often the case because this recipe makes a generous amount), you will want to store them properly. Here’s how:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the chicken and dumplings to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers. Place the cooled chicken and dumplings in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. This will keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the containers with the date.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems too thick.

Tips for Preparing Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings

Making the best Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings is simple with a few handy tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables. They add more flavor and nutrition than canned or frozen options.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you like a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and add it to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme works great, feel free to use other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Biscuit Dough Options: If you prefer, you can use homemade dumplings instead of biscuit dough. Just drop the mixed dumpling batter into the pot instead of biscuit chunks.

Variation (if applicable)

This Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings recipe is very adaptable. Here are a few variations to try:

• Add More Veggies: You can include other vegetables like peas, corn, or even potatoes for added health benefits and flavor.
• Use Different Meats: If you prefer, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of uncooked chicken breasts for a quicker prep time.
• Make it Creamier: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk near the end of cooking.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, you can add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to spice things up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, be aware that cooking time may vary. If using frozen chicken, cook on high for about 6 hours or low for about 8 to 10 hours to ensure it is fully cooked.
2. Can I make this recipe without gluten?
   • Absolutely! Use gluten-free biscuit dough or make your own gluten-free dumplings. Just make sure to check all ingredient labels.
3. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
   • The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you have a meat thermometer, use it to check. If you don’t have one, the chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

Making a bowl of Cozy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings is a delightful way to warm up on chilly days. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the comfort this hearty dish brings!