Welcome to the cozy world of slow cooking! Today, I’ll show you how to make Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings Simple Delight. This hearty dish brings together tender chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy dumplings in one pot. Perfect for busy days, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on a meal that warms both the heart and the belly!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
The main ingredients make this dish hearty and flavorful. Chicken thighs give a rich taste. They stay moist during cooking. The veggies add color and crunch. Carrots, celery, and onion work well together. Garlic gives a nice kick, too. Thyme and rosemary bring an earthy flavor. The bay leaf adds depth to the broth.
Additional Ingredients
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
The chicken broth is key for a tasty base. It keeps everything moist. You can use low-sodium broth to control salt. Biscuit dough forms the dumplings; they puff up nicely. Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness. Season with salt and pepper for balance. Fresh parsley makes a great garnish, too. It brightens up the dish and looks pretty!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by layering the ingredients in the slow cooker. Place 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs at the bottom. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Next, add 2 cups of sliced carrots, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 small diced onion, and 4 cloves of minced garlic. This mix makes a tasty base.
Now, we need to add flavor. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary over the top. Toss in 1 bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These spices will give your dish a rich aroma.
Cooking Process
Cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken will be tender and easy to shred. After cooking, remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bay leaf, as we don’t want that in our meal.
Return the shredded chicken to the cooker. Stir in 2 cups of frozen peas. This adds a sweet pop of color and flavor.
Finishing Touches
Now, it's time for the dumplings. Take 2 cups of biscuit dough and break it into small pieces. You can use store-bought or homemade dough. Drop these pieces on top of the broth mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional hour. This step makes the dumplings fluffy and tender.
Before serving, stir gently. This mixes the dumplings and chicken together. It’s ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
How to ensure flavorful broth
To make a rich broth, use low-sodium chicken broth. It adds depth without too much salt. Add garlic, onion, and herbs like thyme and rosemary for extra flavor. The longer you cook the broth, the more it develops. If you have time, let it simmer longer for deeper taste.
Best practices for dumpling texture
For fluffy dumplings, do not over-mix the dough. Just combine until moist. Drop spoonfuls gently onto the broth. Keep the lid closed while cooking to trap steam. This helps the dumplings rise and stay soft. Let them cook until they are light and fluffy.
Time-Saving Tips
Using prepped ingredients
To cut down on prep time, use pre-chopped veggies. Many stores offer fresh or frozen options. You can also buy ready-made biscuit dough for the dumplings. This saves time and effort, making the dish easier to prepare on busy days.
Storing leftovers for future recipes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate the dumplings, as they can get soggy when thawed.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch chicken thighs for chicken breast. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks well. Just keep in mind, it may dry out more easily.
For veggies, you can try different options. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even green beans work well. They add color and flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home.
Dumplings Options
You can choose between homemade or store-bought biscuit dough. Homemade dough can taste fresher, but store-bought saves time. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought is a great choice.
If you need gluten-free dumplings, look for gluten-free biscuit mixes. Many brands offer tasty options. Just follow the package directions for the best results. Enjoy your meal just the way you like it!
Storage Info
Storage Methods
After making slow cooker chicken dumplings, you may have leftovers. Store them safely to enjoy later.
- Storing leftovers in the refrigerator: Let the chicken dumplings cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing chicken and dumplings: You can freeze leftovers too! Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just label the bags with the date.
Reheating Instructions
When you're ready to enjoy your chicken dumplings again, reheating correctly is key.
- Best practices for reheating without losing texture: For the best taste, thaw frozen dumplings in the fridge overnight. Reheat them gently. This helps keep the dumplings fluffy and the chicken tender.
- Microwave vs. stovetop methods: You can use either method. For the microwave, place the dumplings in a bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often. For stovetop, use a pot with a splash of broth. Heat on low, stirring gently until warmed through.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long do leftovers of slow cooker chicken dumplings last?
Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container. To enjoy them later, reheat gently.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches a safe temperature of 165°F.
Cooking Advice
What can I serve with chicken dumplings?
You can serve chicken dumplings with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Both options add great texture and flavor. Try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
How to adjust the recipe for smaller servings?
To make smaller servings, cut the recipe in half. Use 0.75 lbs of chicken and adjust the broth and veggies accordingly. This way, you still enjoy the full flavor without leftovers.
This blog post shared the ingredients and steps for making slow cooker chicken dumplings. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking process, and essential tips. I emphasized the importance of using fresh ingredients and proper storage.
In the end, slow cooker chicken dumplings are easy, filling, and a family favorite. Try different ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting dish tonight!
