If you’re craving a classic, comforting dish with minimal prep, this CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is for you. This hearty meal combines tender chicken, savory soups, and fresh vegetables, all topped with fluffy, warm dumplings. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe requires only a few minutes of prep time, and then the CrockPot does the rest!
Ingredients:
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 (10 oz) can cheddar cheese soup
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 cups chicken broth
1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
1 (16 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough (for dumplings)
Instructions:
Prepare Ingredients:
Add the diced onion, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper to the CrockPot. Stir well to combine.
Add Chicken and Broth:
Place the chicken thighs and chicken broth into the CrockPot, mixing to coat the chicken thoroughly with the soup mixture.
Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Add Vegetables:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the thawed mixed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Prepare Dumplings:
Open the can of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Place the dough pieces on top of the chicken mixture in the CrockPot.
Cook Dumplings:
Cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes, or until the biscuit dough is fluffy and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, straight from the CrockPot, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Added Flavor: Sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or a dash of black pepper over the dish just before serving for a bright, fresh touch.
Side Pairings: Serve alongside crusty bread, a light green salad, or steamed vegetables to balance the rich, hearty flavors.
Family-Style Presentation: For a cozy, family-style dinner, serve straight from the CrockPot. Place it on the table and let everyone dig in.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely, then store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This recipe freezes well. Transfer the cooled chicken and dumplings to a freezer-safe container, and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
Microwave: For individual portions, microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Reheat larger portions on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until heated evenly. Add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency if the sauce has thickened during storage.
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FAQs:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance by chopping the vegetables and cutting the chicken. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. However, it’s best to add the biscuit dough just before cooking to ensure it stays fluffy.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, turkey, or even a combination of meats. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breast meat may cook faster.
How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger serving size?
To adjust the servings, simply scale the ingredients proportionately. For example, if you want to make half the recipe, use 1.5 pounds of chicken and halve the soups and seasonings. Adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.