Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Place chicken thighs, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Pour chicken broth over the ingredients and add dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings.
- Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the surface of the slow-cooked chicken stew.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry, frozen peas, and heavy cream into the slow cooker.
- Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the stew thickens.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and discard the bay leaf before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Ensure the dumplings are not too crowded to allow even cooking.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier in slow cooking.
Q: Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dumpling mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings offers the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. Enjoy the heartiness of this classic dish that warms both body and soul.