Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the dish.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and color.

Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and flavor.

Onion: Adds depth and aroma.

Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor.

Dried rosemary: Adds a pine-like, aromatic flavor.

Cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and richness.

Refrigerated biscuit dough: Creates fluffy dumplings that cook right in the slow cooker.

When preparing chicken breasts for this slow cooker recipe, consider searing them in a hot pan with a bit of oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step can enhance the flavor by creating a caramelized exterior on the chicken, which adds depth to the overall dish. Additionally, make sure to cut the biscuit dough into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor and is a great option for vegetarians.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative.

• chopped carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness, adding a unique twist to the dish.

• chopped celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel adds a slight anise flavor and a similar crunch, enhancing the dish's complexity.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can add a subtle depth to the dish.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Oregano provides a robust, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• dried rosemary - Substitute with dried sage: Sage offers a warm, slightly peppery flavor that pairs well with poultry.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup provides a similar creamy texture and a rich, savory flavor.

• refrigerated biscuit dough - Substitute with homemade dumpling dough: Homemade dumpling dough can be made with flour, baking powder, salt, and milk, offering a fresher and more customizable option.

• Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled chicken and dumplings into airtight containers. For individual servings, use smaller containers to make reheating easier.
• Label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness. The chicken and dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the airtight containers in the freezer. The chicken and dumplings can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chicken and dumplings in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the chicken and dumplings on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, using a microwave-safe dish and covering it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• If the dumplings have absorbed too much liquid during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
• For best results, avoid freezing the biscuit dough separately. Instead, cook the biscuit dough in the slow cooker as directed before freezing the entire dish.

• For stovetop reheating:

  1. Transfer the leftover chicken and dumplings to a large saucepan or pot.
  2. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
  3. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and vegetables are heated through and the biscuits are soft and warm.

• For microwave reheating:

  1. Place a portion of the leftover chicken and dumplings in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly heated.

• For oven reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the leftover chicken and dumplings to an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are heated through and the biscuits are warm.

• For slow cooker reheating:

  1. Place the leftover chicken and dumplings back into the slow cooker.
  2. Add a bit of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
  3. Set the slow cooker to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until everything is warmed through.

• Slow cooker: Used to cook the chicken and vegetables slowly over several hours, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion.

• Chef's knife: Essential for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chopping the vegetables.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth and ensure the correct amount is added to the slow cooker.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the dried thyme and rosemary accurately.

• Can opener: Necessary for opening the cans of cream of chicken soup and refrigerated biscuit dough.

• Mixing spoon: Used to stir the ingredients together in the slow cooker and later to mix in the cream of chicken soup.

• Kitchen shears: Useful for cutting the biscuit dough into small pieces before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Serving spoon: Used to serve the finished chicken and dumplings hot from the slow cooker.

Pre-cut vegetables: Use pre-chopped carrots, celery, and onion from the store to save time on preparation.

Use rotisserie chicken: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to reduce cooking time.

Instant biscuit dough: Opt for refrigerated biscuit dough to quickly add dumplings without making dough from scratch.

High setting: If you’re short on time, cook the chicken and vegetables on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.