Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food. This classic dish brings together tender, juicy chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory and flavorful broth. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need a big bowl of something warm and satisfying to lift your spirits. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of a slow cooker. Let’s take a closer look at this timeless recipe and its history.
Ingredients
To make Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
- 2 cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
- 2/3 cup milk
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings:
1. First, place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top the chicken with the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, condensed cream of chicken soup, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours, or high for 4 hours.
3. Before the cook time is up, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and the milk, stirring until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture on top of the chicken and vegetable mixture in the slow cooker, covering the surface evenly. Replace the lid and continue cooking for another hour, or until the dumplings are cooked through and tender.
History and Curiosities
The history of chicken and dumplings dates back to the early settlers of the United States. This dish has its roots in the southern region of America, and it became a popular meal due to the availability of its ingredients. In the Southern United States, chickens were easier to raise and more affordable than other meats, making them a staple in their diets.
Dumplings have their origins in various cultures. The version incorporated in chicken and dumplings is believed to be a fusion of the British and African culinary traditions. African American cooks created a thicker, more substantial dumpling to make the dish heartier and more filling.
The use of a slow cooker, also known as a Crock Pot, in this recipe is a modern twist on the classic dish. Invented in the 1940s and popularized in the 1970s, slow cookers are an ideal appliance for busy home cooks because they conveniently cook meals over a long period with minimal effort.
Crock Pot Chicken & Dumplings not only offers a delicious bowl of comfort food, but it also connects us to the rich history of American cuisine. With its influence from various cultures and its adaptation to modern cooking techniques, this hearty meal has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved classic. Enjoy a steaming serving of chicken and dumplings, and be a part of this culinary history.
