Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can of water (using the cream of chicken soup can)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can refrigerated biscuits (8-count)
- All-purpose flour for rolling biscuits
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the diced onions over the chicken breasts.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with a can of water. Pour the mixture over the chicken and onions in the crockpot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the ingredients with water until they are submerged, ensuring the liquid covers the chicken and onions.
- Set the crockpot to low heat and cook for 3 1/2 hours.
- After 3 1/2 hours, break apart the refrigerated biscuits and roll each piece in flour to prevent sticking.
- Drop the floured biscuits on top of the chicken mixture in the crockpot.
- Cover the crockpot and continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the biscuits are cooked through.
- Gently stir the dumplings into the chicken mixture before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the delicious chicken and dumplings hot, and enjoy a comforting and hearty meal!
Note: This recipe can be easily doubled for a larger family or to have leftovers for the next day. Feel free to customize the seasonings and add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Here are some helpful tips to enhance the flavor and overall experience of your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:
- Seasoning Variations:
- Experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, or poultry seasoning to add depth to the flavor.
- Fresh Herbs:
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Consider adding vegetables such as carrots, peas, or celery to the crockpot for added color, nutrients, and texture.
- Homemade Dumplings:
- If you have the time, consider making homemade dumplings for an extra special touch. A simple mix of flour, baking powder, salt, and milk can create delicious dumplings.
- Broth Enhancement:
- If you prefer a thinner broth, add more water or chicken broth. Alternatively, for a creamier texture, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk at the end.
- Cheese or Cream Cheese:
- For a creamy twist, stir in a bit of shredded cheese or cream cheese during the last hour of cooking.
- Browning the Chicken:
- Before placing the chicken in the slow cooker, consider browning it in a skillet for a few minutes on each side. This adds a richer flavor to the dish.
- Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice:
- A splash of fresh lemon juice added just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing twist.
- Adjust Biscuit Placement:
- Place the biscuit pieces evenly over the top of the mixture to ensure even cooking and a nice distribution of dumplings.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and additional flavor.
- Serve with a Side Salad:
- Pair your chicken and dumplings with a side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Use Low-Sodium Ingredients:
- If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken soup and broth to control the salt content.
Feel free to tailor these tips to your taste preferences, and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings!
Popular Questions and Answers:
Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe :
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe?
A: It’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken breasts for food safety reasons. When using frozen chicken, it may take longer for the meat to reach a safe internal temperature in the slow cooker. To ensure thorough cooking and prevent potential bacterial growth, it’s better to thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before placing them in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I make the dumplings from scratch instead of using refrigerated biscuits?
A: Absolutely! You can make homemade dumplings by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of milk. Mix until just combined, then drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the chicken mixture in the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will result in fluffy, homemade dumplings.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to the Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
A: Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as carrots, peas, or celery during the initial cooking phase. These additions can enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Q: Can I cook the Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings on high heat for a shorter time?
A: While the recipe suggests cooking on low for 4 hours, you can cook on high for approximately 2-3 hours. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking on low heat for a longer time often allows flavors to meld and develop more fully.
Q: How can I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store any leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If the consistency of the dumplings changes upon refrigeration, adding a little broth or water while reheating can help restore moisture.
Feel free to adjust these answers based on your preferences and any specific considerations you might have!
Achieving the perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings requires attention to detail and a few secrets to elevate the flavors. Here are some tips to help you master this comforting dish:
- Quality Ingredients:
- Start with high-quality chicken breasts and fresh ingredients. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful your dish will be.
- Browning the Chicken:
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This adds a rich, savory taste to the final dish.
- Proper Seasoning:
- Season the chicken and onion mixture generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to layer the flavors by adding additional seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, or poultry seasoning for a more complex taste.
- Thoroughly Mix the Cream of Chicken Soup:
- Ensure the cream of chicken soup is well-mixed with water before pouring it into the slow cooker. This ensures a smooth and consistent base for your chicken and dumplings.
- Even Dumpling Placement:
- When adding the dumplings, distribute them evenly over the surface of the chicken mixture. This ensures that all dumplings cook uniformly.
- Homemade Dumplings:
- Consider making homemade dumplings for a more authentic and personalized touch. Homemade dumplings made with simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, and milk can take the dish to the next level.
- Fresh Herbs at the End:
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives during the last 30 minutes of cooking or just before serving. This adds a burst of fresh flavor and brightness to the dish.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the broth is too thick, you can add more water or chicken broth. Conversely, if you prefer a creamier consistency, stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk.
- Don’t Overcook Dumplings:
- Be mindful not to overcook the dumplings. Check for doneness during the last 30 minutes and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Overcooked dumplings can become dense.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of lemon juice can make all the difference.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings hot to fully enjoy the comforting warmth of the dish.
- Experiment with Flavors:
- Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like a splash of white wine, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated cheese to customize the flavors to your liking.
By following these secrets and making adjustments based on your preferences, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings!
