Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 cup chopped carrots: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup chopped celery: Provides a savory base.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds depth of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the taste.
• 1 cup frozen peas: For added color and sweetness.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Forms the base of the stew.
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk: Adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For herbal flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Complements the thyme.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage: Adds a savory note.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances flavor.

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dumpling dough.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds extra flavor.
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter: Cut into small cubes.
• 3/4 cup whole milk: Binds the dumpling dough.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: For flavor and garnish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Stew:

1. Combine Ingredients:

• In the slow cooker, add the chicken pieces, chopped carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic.

1. Add Liquids:

• Stir in the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and heavy cream (or milk). Mix well to combine.

1. Season:

• Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

1. Cook:

• Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and stir.

2. Make the Dumplings:

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder (if using).

1. Cut in the Butter:

• Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

1. Add Milk:

• Pour in the milk and mix until just combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.

1. Add Parsley:

• Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for added flavor.

3. Add Dumplings to the Slow Cooker:

1. Drop Dumplings:

• Spoon dollops of the dumpling dough over the top of the stew in the slow cooker. The dough should be in small mounds or spoonfuls on top of the stew.

1. Cook:

• Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 1 hour or until the dumplings are cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook properly.

4. Serve:

1. Check for Doneness:

• Ensure the dumplings are fully cooked and the chicken is tender. The stew should be thick and creamy.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Dumpling Texture: The dumpling dough should be thick but not dry. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more milk.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker; ensure there’s enough space for the dumplings to rise and cook properly.
• Thickening Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before adding the dumplings.

Variations:

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as potatoes, green beans, or corn.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey or beef if desired.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Follow this recipe for a hearty and satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

Enjoy your comforting chicken and dumplings!

This recipe provides a straightforward approach to making a delicious slow-cooked meal, ensuring you get tender chicken and perfect dumplings every time. Happy cooking!