Embarking on a culinary journey that combines convenience with rich flavors, homemade Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings in a slow cooker is your ticket to a hearty, comforting meal. By harnessing the power of your slow cooker, you can transform everyday ingredients into a heartwarming soup that's sure to delight your family and friends. Here's how you can make this classic dish with an easy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups Original Bisquick mix
- 2⁄3 cup milk
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by prepping your chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. This step is essential to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs flavors in the slow cooker.
🍲 Note: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken for ease and to minimize the time spent on preparation.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Heat a skillet with some olive oil and sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they become slightly translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic towards the end, cooking for just a minute to release its flavor. This enhances the taste of your soup. Transfer these vegetables into the slow cooker.
3. Building the Soup Base:
Now, add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and water, followed by a dash of salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Crafting the Dumplings:
As your soup base nears completion, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, combine the Bisquick mix with milk to form a thick batter. Drop spoonfuls of this batter onto the top of the hot soup. Replace the lid and continue to cook for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
5. Serving and Enjoyment:
Once the dumplings have risen and are fluffy, your Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings are ready. Ladle into bowls and perhaps garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness. Savor every spoonful of this comforting delight.
Tips for a Perfect Batch:
- Cover the slow cooker after adding the dumplings to help them steam and cook evenly.
- Keep the chicken in bite-sized pieces for optimal cooking and texture.
- Using broth provides better depth of flavor than just using water. If needed, boost flavor with a bouillon cube or extra broth.
By following these steps, you've crafted a meal that not only brings warmth to the table but also a sense of accomplishment from utilizing your kitchen skills. This dish, with its tender chicken, savory dumplings, and flavorsome broth, is perfect for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or just when you need a bit of comforting simplicity in your life. Remember, the key to any great meal lies in the care with which you prepare it, and this easy Bisquick Chicken and Dumplings recipe provides just that opportunity, all within the convenience of your slow cooker.
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
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Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Add the chicken at the start, but it might take longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for Bisquick?
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You can make your own mix with flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening. However, the texture and taste might slightly differ from the Bisquick mix.
How do I know if my dumplings are cooked?
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Your dumplings should be light and fluffy. If they are still doughy in the center, give them additional time. Check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
