Best Ever Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

For the Chicken Stew:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Stew:

• In your Crock Pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

1. Shred the Chicken:

• About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crock Pot.
• If using, stir in the heavy cream for a creamy texture.
• Add the frozen peas and stir gently to combine.

1. Make the Dumplings:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder.
• In another bowl, combine the milk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

1. Add the Dumplings:

• Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken stew in the Crock Pot. You can create about 10-12 dumplings depending on size.
• Cover and cook for an additional 30-40 minutes on high until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Do not lift the lid during this time.

1. Serve:

• Once the dumplings are cooked, serve the chicken and dumplings hot. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips:

• For a healthier version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or omit it entirely.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings!