CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings with Cheddar Cheese

If you’re looking for a warm, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings with Cheddar Cheese is the perfect choice. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich cheddar cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. Whether it’s a busy weekday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Stew

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Stew

1. Add Ingredients to the CrockPot: In your CrockPot, place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 2: Make the Dumplings

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and cheddar cheese.
3. Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.

Step 3: Finish the Dish

1. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the CrockPot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
2. Add Peas and Cheese: Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Dollop Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture over the chicken and stew mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 1-2 hours until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

• Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious, cheesy comfort food!

Tips for Success

• Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, feel free to substitute it in. Just add it in the last hour of cooking to heat through.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor twist. Gruyère or pepper jack cheese can add a fun kick!
• Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding other herbs like sage or oregano, or even a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Conclusion

CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings with Cheddar Cheese is a delightful and easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal. Perfect for family dinners, this dish can be prepped in advance and left to cook, allowing you to come home to a warm, comforting meal. Whether served on a chilly evening or during a busy week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Serving and Storage Tips for CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings with Cheddar Cheese

Serving Tips

1. Presentation: Serve the chicken and dumplings in deep bowls to showcase the hearty stew and fluffy dumplings. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
2. Accompaniments: Pair this dish with crusty bread or warm biscuits for an extra touch. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables can complement the meal nicely.
3. Leftover Adaptations: If you have leftovers, consider transforming them into a pot pie. Place the mixture in a pie crust, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly for a new twist on the classic.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, portion the chicken and dumplings into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to freeze them without the dumplings, as they may become mushy upon reheating. The chicken stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw the frozen chicken stew overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the mixture. If the dumplings were frozen separately, steam or microwave them until heated through, then combine before serving.
4. Quality Check: Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers, such as an off smell or unusual texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings with Cheddar Cheese to the fullest while minimizing waste and maximizing flavor!

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in your CrockPot. Just add the frozen chicken breasts directly to the pot with the other ingredients. However, make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so, as frozen chicken takes longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings. Additionally, check that the chicken broth is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

3. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding more vegetables. Popular options include potatoes, green beans, or corn. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes as the carrots and celery for even cooking. Add sturdier vegetables like potatoes at the beginning of the cooking process, while softer vegetables like peas can be added in the last hour of cooking.

4. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, to make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) in the dumplings. Additionally, ensure that any broth or stock you use is also dairy-free.

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