Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re craving something hearty without the hassle, this slow cooker chicken dumplings recipe is a game-changer. Packed with flavor and simplicity, it’s your next go-to comfort food.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding flavors together while you go about your day.
- Tender chicken and fluffy dumplings create the perfect texture contrast.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices to make it uniquely yours.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax, making your dumplings extra fluffy.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
Place the cubed chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and black pepper in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top, ensuring everything is submerged. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 3: Add the Dumplings
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough into the slow cooker, spacing them evenly. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, making sure to get a good mix of broth, vegetables, and dumplings in each serving. Serve hot for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider browning the chicken cubes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds depth and complexity to the dish. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut vegetables from the store. And for those who love a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper in the broth can add a nice kick.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Add different vegetables like peas or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
- For a creamier broth, stir in a half cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and work just as well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing to save time and effort.
How can I tell when the dumplings are done?
The dumplings are done when they’re fluffy and no longer doughy in the middle. You can test one by cutting it in half; if it’s cooked through, it’s ready to eat.
Can I make this recipe on the stove?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the stove. Simmer the chicken and vegetables in a large pot until tender, then add the dumplings and cover until they’re cooked through.
Summary
This slow cooker chicken dumplings recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, soft vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any day of the week.
