Healthier Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: Comfort Food Made Guilt-Free
Chicken and dumplings is the quintessential comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. But traditionally, it’s also loaded with fat and calories. This healthier slow cooker version allows you to enjoy all the comforting flavors you crave without the guilt. We’ve lightened it up by using lean chicken breast, whole wheat flour for the dumplings, and incorporating plenty of vegetables. The slow cooker does all the work, making this a perfect weeknight meal.
Why This Recipe Works
* **Slow Cooker Simplicity:** The slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly easy. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it (for a few hours, anyway!). The low and slow cooking process results in incredibly tender chicken and flavorful broth.
* **Healthier Ingredients:** We’ve swapped out traditional ingredients for healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavor or texture. Lean chicken breast replaces fattier cuts, and whole wheat flour adds fiber to the dumplings.
* **Vegetable Packed:** This recipe is loaded with vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas, adding nutrients and flavor to the dish.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the vegetables, herbs, and spices to your liking. You can even add other lean proteins like turkey or beans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
**For the Chicken and Broth:**
* 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
* 1 cup chopped carrots
* 1 cup chopped celery
* 1 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
* 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
**For the Dumplings:**
* 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* 3/4 cup low-fat milk (or buttermilk)
Equipment You’ll Need
* 6-quart or larger slow cooker
* Large bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Whisk
* Fork or pastry blender
Step-by-Step Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables**
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
**Step 2: Cook the Chicken**
1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
**Step 3: Shred the Chicken**
1. Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
**Step 4: Prepare the Dumplings**
1. While the chicken is cooking or resting for a bit after shredding, prepare the dumpling dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
**Step 5: Add the Dumplings and Peas**
1. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough (about 1-2 tablespoons each) into the slow cooker, spacing them evenly over the chicken mixture.
2. Stir in the frozen peas.
**Step 6: Cook the Dumplings**
1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. They should be golden brown and no longer doughy in the center. To test, insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re done.
**Step 7: Thicken the Broth (Optional)**
1. If you prefer a thicker broth, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the broth has thickened slightly.
**Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!**
1. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken can become dry and stringy. Cook it just until it’s easily shreddable. If you’re using high heat, check the chicken after 3 hours.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough:** Overmixing the dumpling dough will result in tough, dense dumplings. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
* **Keep the Slow Cooker Covered:** Resist the urge to lift the lid of the slow cooker while the dumplings are cooking. This will release heat and steam, which can affect the cooking time and texture of the dumplings.
* **Use Cold Ingredients for the Dumplings:** Cold butter and milk help create tender, flaky dumplings.
* **Add Vegetables to Taste:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as diced potatoes, green beans, or corn.
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
* **For Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Using fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley will enhance the flavor.
Variations to Try
* **Creamy Chicken and Dumplings:** Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier dish. Remember this will increase the calorie count.
* **Herb and Garlic Chicken and Dumplings:** Add extra garlic and herbs like parsley, chives, and oregano to the chicken and broth for a more flavorful dish.
* **Cajun Chicken and Dumplings:** Add Cajun seasoning, diced bell peppers, and Andouille sausage for a spicy twist.
* **Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings:** For a super quick shortcut, use Bisquick mix to make the dumplings, following the package directions. This will alter the nutritional profile.
* **Add Bacon:** Cook chopped bacon and add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients for a smoky flavor.
* **Different Broth:** Try using bone broth for added nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
* Serve hot as a main course.
* Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
* Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
Make-Ahead Instructions
* The chicken and broth can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the dumplings just before cooking.
* The dumpling dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Storage Instructions
* Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)*
* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Fiber: 3-5g
Health Benefits
This healthier slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe offers several health benefits:
* **Lean Protein:** Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
* **Fiber:** Whole wheat flour and vegetables provide fiber, which helps regulate digestion and keeps you feeling full.
* **Vitamins and Minerals:** Carrots, celery, onions, and peas are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
* **Low-Sodium:** Using low-sodium chicken broth helps to reduce your sodium intake, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
* **Comfort Food:** This recipe allows you to enjoy a classic comfort food without the guilt, which can be beneficial for your mental well-being.
Detailed Recipe Card
**Healthier Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings**
A comforting and healthier twist on a classic, made easy in the slow cooker.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high) + 30-45 minutes for dumplings
**Servings:** 6-8
**Ingredients:**
**For the Chicken and Broth:**
* 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
* 1 cup chopped carrots
* 1 cup chopped celery
* 1 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
* 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
**For the Dumplings:**
* 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* 3/4 cup low-fat milk (or buttermilk)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:** Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. **Cook the Chicken:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
3. **Shred the Chicken:** Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
4. **Prepare the Dumplings:** In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Add the Dumplings and Peas:** Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough (about 1-2 tablespoons each) into the slow cooker, spacing them evenly over the chicken mixture. Stir in the frozen peas.
6. **Cook the Dumplings:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. They should be golden brown and no longer doughy in the center.
7. **Thicken the Broth (Optional):** If you prefer a thicker broth, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the broth has thickened slightly.
8. **Serve and Enjoy!:** Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
**Notes:**
* Don’t overcook the chicken or overmix the dumpling dough.
* Use cold ingredients for the dumplings.
* Adjust seasoning and vegetables to taste.
* For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Enjoy this healthier and delicious slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe! It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in.