Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This dish has its roots in American cuisine and is often associated with Southern cooking. The origins of chicken and dumplings can be traced back to the early settlers in America, who brought with them their traditional recipes and adapted them to the ingredients available in the new world.
Chicken and dumplings are a popular comfort food because they are hearty, filling, and delicious. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. It is often enjoyed on cold winter nights or when someone is feeling under the weather.
One of the benefits of using a crock pot for this recipe is that it allows for easy preparation and hands-off cooking. The slow cooking process in a crock pot allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy. It also frees up time in the kitchen, as you can simply set it and forget it while the crock pot does all the work.
Key Takeaways
- Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings is a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to make.
- The ingredients needed for the recipe include chicken, vegetables, flour, and seasonings.
- To prepare the chicken for the crock pot, it should be seasoned and seared before adding it to the pot.
- Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the recipe adds flavor and nutrition.
- Making the dumplings from scratch is simple and adds a homemade touch to the dish.
- Tips for cooking chicken & dumplings in a crock pot include adjusting the cooking time and adding more liquid if needed.
- Serving suggestions for the dish include garnishing with fresh herbs and serving with a side salad or bread.
- Nutritional information and health benefits of the meal include high protein and fiber content, as well as vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
- Variations of the recipe for different tastes can include adding different herbs or spices, using different types of vegetables, or using a different type of meat.
- In conclusion, Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings is a versatile and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
To make crock pot chicken & dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:
2 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
6 cups of chicken broth
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
You can find these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you prefer, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts instead of bone-in. Additionally, you can add other vegetables, such as peas or corn, to the dish for added flavor and texture.
Preparing the Chicken for the Crock Pot
When choosing chicken for this recipe, it is important to select high-quality meat. Look for chicken that is fresh and free from any signs of spoilage. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture.
To cut the chicken into pieces, you will need a sharp knife and a cutting board. Start by removing the skin from the chicken, if desired. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully cut the chicken into pieces. If using bone-in chicken, you can separate the thighs and breasts from the bone. If using boneless chicken, you can simply cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Once the chicken is cut, season it with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. This will add flavor to the dish as it cooks in the crock pot.
Adding Vegetables to the Recipe
| Vegetable | Amount | Calories | Fiber (g) | Vitamin C (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrots | 1 cup, chopped | 52 | 3.6 | 7.6 |
| Broccoli | 1 cup, chopped | 55 | 2.6 | 81.2 |
| Spinach | 1 cup, chopped | 7 | 0.7 | 8.4 |
| Tomatoes | 1 medium | 22 | 1.5 | 15.6 |
| Peppers | 1 cup, chopped | 31 | 2.5 | 152 |
Adding vegetables to crock pot chicken & dumplings not only adds flavor and nutrition but also helps to create a well-rounded meal. Some popular vegetables to include in this dish are onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
To prepare the vegetables, start by peeling and dicing the onion. Then, peel and slice the carrots and celery into bite-sized pieces. Finally, mince the garlic cloves.
When to add the vegetables to the crock pot will depend on how soft you want them to be. If you prefer your vegetables to have a bit of crunch, add them at the beginning of the cooking process. If you prefer them to be softer, add them about halfway through cooking.
Making the Dumplings from Scratch
Making dumplings from scratch is worth it because it allows you to control the ingredients and customize them to your liking. The ingredients needed for the dumplings are:
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon of baking powder
1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of butter, cold and cubed
3/4 cup of milk
To make the dough, start by combining the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Once the dough is ready, shape it into small balls or drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth in the crock pot. Cover the crock pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Tips for Cooking Chicken & Dumplings in a Crock Pot
When cooking chicken & dumplings in a crock pot, it is important to follow a few tips to ensure the best results. First, cook the dish on low heat for 6–8 hours or on high heat for 3–4 hours. This will allow the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender.
If you find that the dish needs more seasoning, you can adjust it to your taste. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. Just be sure to taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
To prevent the dumplings from falling apart, avoid stirring them too much once they are added to the crock pot. Gently push them down into the broth to ensure they cook evenly, but avoid stirring vigorously.
Serving Suggestions for the Dish
To serve crock pot chicken & dumplings, ladle a generous portion of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings into a bowl. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for added flavor and presentation.
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. You can also serve it with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the flavorful broth.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of the Meal
Crock pot chicken & dumplings are nutritious meals that provide a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The calorie count will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but on average, a serving of chicken & dumplings contains around 400–500 calories.
The macronutrient breakdown of this dish will also vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, it is generally high in protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the dumplings and vegetables. The addition of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken provides a good source of lean protein.
The health benefits of this meal come from the ingredients used. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair. Vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being. The homemade dumplings can be made with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Variations of the Recipe for Different Tastes
To cater to different tastes, there are several variations of crock pot chicken & dumplings that you can try. If you prefer spicier flavors, you can add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the dish. This will give it a kick of heat and add depth to the flavor profile.
For a creamier version of this dish, you can add a can of cream of chicken soup or a splash of heavy cream to the crock pot. This will create a rich and velvety texture that is sure to please.
If you follow a vegetarian diet or simply want to switch things up, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings
In conclusion, crock pot chicken & dumplings are a classic comfort food dish that is loved by many. Its rich flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings make it a satisfying meal that is perfect for cold winter nights or when you need a little extra comfort.
By using a crock pot, you can easily prepare this dish with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.
Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist, crock pot chicken & dumplings is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, fire up your crock pot, and enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade comfort food.
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal, look no further than crock-pot chicken and dumplings. This classic dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings make for the perfect combination. But why stop there? If you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage to pair with your meal, check out this article on how to mix a perfect Long Island Iced Tea. It’s the ideal way to complement the rich flavors of the chicken and dumplings with a cool and tangy cocktail. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this delightful combination of flavors. (source)
