introduction
The aroma of chicken and dumplings fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort, reminding me of cozy family meals. When I was a child, my grandmother would make this dish on chilly evenings, and the simple act of gathering around the table would bring us all together. This recipe matters to me because it represents love, tradition, and the art of nurturing through food. Slow cooker chicken and dumplings is special because it allows you to create a hearty meal with minimal effort, leaving you with more time to enjoy with family and friends.
why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to prepare a delicious dish while going about your day. You’ll love how the chicken becomes tender and flavorful, while the dumplings add a delightful, soft texture. It’s an easy way to create a classic dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
how to make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups homemade dumplings
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In the slow cooker, place the chicken breast, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the homemade dumplings on top.
- Cover and cook until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Shred the chicken and stir everything together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
how to serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Serve your chicken and dumplings hot from the slow cooker, letting everyone help themselves. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely touch and a pop of color to the dish.
how to store Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
To store leftovers, let the chicken and dumplings cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the dish for up to three months. Just remember, the dumplings may change texture when reheated.
tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, mix in a cornstarch slurry before adding the dumplings.
- Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables, such as peas or corn.
variation
You can make this dish with turkey instead of chicken or use store-bought dumplings for even more convenience. Adding a splash of cream can also create a richer broth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will need to be longer—approximately 8-10 hours on low.
What can I do if my dumplings are not cooking through?
Make sure the dumplings are placed on top of the other ingredients and ensure the lid remains on during cooking. If they aren’t cooked through, try adding a little more cooking time.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator, then add them to the slow cooker in the morning for a warm meal by dinner time.
PrintSlow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
A warm and comforting classic dish made with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, perfect for family meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups homemade dumplings
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breast, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the homemade dumplings on top about 30 minutes before serving.
- Cover and cook until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Shred the chicken and stir everything together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a thicker broth, consider adding a cornstarch slurry before the dumplings. You can substitute turkey for chicken if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
