Ingredients:
- 3 large cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 jug (32 oz) chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 1 package of Pillsbury biscuits (8 biscuits)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- In a crockpot, combine the cream of chicken soups, chicken broth, and water. Mix well to dilute the soups and create a creamy base.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine the seasonings.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil. Place the whole chicken in the boiling water and cook for about an hour or until the chicken starts falling apart and is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the boiling water and let it cool for about 40 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Once the chicken has cooled, remove and discard the bones. Shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Add Chicken to Crockpot:
- Add the shredded chicken to the crockpot containing the soup mixture. Stir well to combine. Set the crockpot on high heat and let it come to a boil.
- Prepare the Dumplings:
- While the crockpot is heating up, take the Pillsbury biscuits and flatten them with your hands. Cut the flattened biscuits into squares or any desired shape.
- Add Dumplings to Crockpot:
- Once the soup mixture in the crockpot is boiling, gently place the flattened and cut biscuits into the hot liquid. Do not stir immediately to avoid breaking up the dumplings.
- Cover the crockpot and let the dumplings cook for about 10 minutes without stirring. They will puff up and cook in the hot liquid.
- Stir and Cook:
- After 10 minutes, gently stir the dumplings here and there to ensure even cooking. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for an additional 50-60 minutes or until the dumplings are fully cooked and fluffy.
- Serve:
- Once the dumplings are cooked through and the soup has thickened, turn off the crockpot. Let the chicken and dumplings cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the delicious and comforting crockpot chicken and dumplings in bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade comfort food!
Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that people might have about the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe:
Q1: Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken in this recipe? A: Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like turkey or even use vegetables for a vegetarian version of the dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat or vegetables you choose.
Q2: Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup instead of canned soup? A: Absolutely! You can use homemade cream of chicken soup if you prefer a fresher, less processed option. There are various recipes available online for making homemade cream of chicken soup from scratch.
Q3: Can I use frozen biscuits for this recipe? A: While fresh biscuits are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen biscuits in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them according to the package instructions before flattening and cutting them for the recipe.
Q4: How long does it take for the dumplings to cook thoroughly? A: The dumplings usually take about 50-60 minutes to cook thoroughly in the crockpot. Cooking times may vary slightly based on the specific brand and thickness of the biscuits you use, so it’s essential to check their doneness before serving.
Q5: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and freeze it? A: While the soup base can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, it’s best to prepare the dumplings fresh for the best taste and texture. If you want to freeze the entire dish, consider freezing the soup separately and adding freshly made dumplings when reheating for the best results.
Q6: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through before serving.
Q7: Can I add vegetables to this recipe? A: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas to the chicken and dumplings for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop the vegetables into small pieces and add them to the crockpot along with the chicken and soup mixture.
Feel free to customize the recipe to your preferences, and enjoy your homemade Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings!
