Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe, a hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners. With tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy biscuits, this slow-cooked meal is sure to become a favorite. Follow our simple steps to create a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 1 can Pillsbury Grands flaky layers biscuits
- 1 family size cream of mushroom condensed soup
- 1 family size cream of chicken condensed soup
- Serves: 6 servings
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- Begin by layering the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the Condensed Soups:
- Pour both cans of condensed soup over the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Cook on Low Heat:
- Set your crockpot to low heat and cook the chicken and soup mixture for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Add Biscuit Dumplings:
- Several minutes before serving, cut the Pillsbury Grands biscuits into small pieces and drop them into the crockpot.
- Cook Until Dumplings are Done:
- Increase the heat to high and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the biscuits are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Gently mix the dumplings with the sauce and chicken in the crockpot. Serve hot, spooning generous portions of chicken, dumplings, and creamy sauce into each bowl.
Prep Time: Minimal | Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow-cooked) + 30-45 minutes | Total Time: 6-8 hours + 30-45 minutes | Servings: 6
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Serve Hot and Fresh: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are best served hot directly from the slow cooker. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with Sides: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, green salad, or crusty bread to complete the meal and add variety.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze leftovers, transfer cooled chicken and dumplings into a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to maintain moisture.
- Avoid Overcooking Dumplings: When reheating, take care not to overcook the dumplings, as they can become mushy. Heat just until warmed through.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings retains its flavors and textures for enjoyable leftovers or quick meals throughout the week. Whether you’re serving it fresh or reheating, these tips will help you make the most of this comforting dish.
variations:
- Vegetable Medley Chicken and Dumplings:
- Add diced carrots, celery, and peas to the crockpot along with the chicken and soups. These vegetables add color, flavor, and nutritional value to the dish.
- Herbed Chicken and Dumplings:
- Season the chicken with dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage before placing it in the crockpot. These herbs infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.
- Spicy Chicken and Dumplings:
- Mix in a can of diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to add a spicy kick to the chicken and dumplings. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- Creamy Garlic Chicken and Dumplings:
- Stir in minced garlic or garlic powder into the soup mixture for a savory garlic flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Italian Chicken and Dumplings:
- Add Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and a splash of heavy cream to the crockpot. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top for an Italian-inspired twist.
- Mushroom Lover’s Chicken and Dumplings:
- Saute sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown and add them to the crockpot along with the chicken and soups. The earthy mushrooms complement the creamy sauce.
- Lemon Pepper Chicken and Dumplings:
- Season the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning before placing it in the crockpot. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
- Tex-Mex Chicken and Dumplings:
- Stir in a can of black beans, corn kernels, and a packet of taco seasoning into the crockpot. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and chopped cilantro.
- Asian-Inspired Chicken and Dumplings:
- Add soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar to the soup mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Seafood Chicken and Dumplings:
- Add cooked shrimp or chunks of firm white fish (like cod or halibut) to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking for a surf-and-turf twist.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste preferences and create a unique twist on traditional Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. Whether you crave spicy flavors, creamy textures, or fresh herbs, these ideas will elevate your comfort food experience!
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs tend to be more moist and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup? If you prefer homemade options or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute with homemade cream soups using a roux base with chicken or mushroom broth, milk, and thickening agent like flour or cornstarch.
- Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the chicken and dumplings? Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, peas, or even potatoes can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. Add them during the cooking process to ensure they cook evenly.
- How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy in the crockpot? To prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy, ensure they are cut into small pieces and added to the crockpot during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This allows them to cook through without absorbing too much moisture.
- Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned biscuits? Yes, you can use homemade biscuit dough. Drop spoonfuls of the dough directly into the crockpot during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Ensure the dough is cooked through before serving.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked in the crockpot? Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, especially if cooking on low heat for an extended period.
- Can I freeze leftover Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in airtight containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin? If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking. Allow it to simmer until thickened.
- Can I prepare Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, place the insert back into the crockpot and cook as directed.
- What sides pair well with Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings? Serve with sides like steamed vegetables, green salad, mashed potatoes, or dinner rolls. These sides complement the comforting flavors of the dish.
These FAQs should provide valuable insights and tips for successfully preparing and enjoying Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cook, these answers will help you navigate the process and create a delicious meal everyone will love!
Enjoy the convenience and heartwarming flavors of our Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this dish combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy dumplings for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and savor the simplicity and satisfaction of slow-cooked comfort food at its best!