Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing like a warm, hearty bowl of chicken and dumplings to make you feel cozy and satisfied. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hands-off, foolproof way to enjoy this classic dish. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a flavorful broth come together in a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken Stew:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

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How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Stew

1. Add chicken thighs or breasts to the slow cooker along with carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

1. Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the heavy cream to create a rich, creamy broth.

Step 3: Make the Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

1. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the chicken stew in the slow cooker. Space them out slightly to allow room for expansion.
2. Cover and cook on high for 30-40 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Servings: 6

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Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings:

• Choose the right chicken: Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
• Fluffy dumplings: Avoid overmixing the dumpling batter to keep them light.
• Veggie boost: Add diced potatoes or green beans for more texture and nutrition.
• Thicker broth: For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in before adding the dumplings.

A rustic wooden table set with a white bowl of steaming chicken and dumplings, featuring tender shredded chicken, fluffy golden dumplings, and vibrant diced carrots and celery in a creamy broth. Garnish with fresh parsley, with a vintage spoon and a loaf of crusty bread nearby.