Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Stew:
   • Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
   • In a crock pot or slow cooker, combine the seasoned chicken, chicken broth, water, carrots, celery, diced onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried parsley.
   • Stir the ingredients together to ensure everything is well combined.
   • Set the crock pot on low heat and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
2. Make the Dumplings:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Incorporate the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually pour in the milk while stirring with a fork until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
   • Set aside the dumpling dough while the chicken stew is cooking.
3. Add the Dumplings to the Crock Pot:
   • Once the chicken is tender, increase the crock pot’s heat to high.
   • Remove the bay leaves from the stew.
   • Take small portions of the dumpling dough and form them into balls, then gently drop them onto the simmering stew. Ensure they’re evenly distributed across the surface.
   • Cover the crock pot with its lid and let the dumplings cook for about 1 hour. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to maintain the heat and steam required for the dumplings to cook properly.
4. Check for Doneness:
   • After an hour, check the dumplings for doneness. They should be cooked through and fluffy.
   • If necessary, you can gently flip the dumplings halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
5. Add Optional Peas and Adjust Seasoning:
   • If using frozen peas, add them to the crock pot during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to heat through.
   • Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the warm and comforting chicken and dumplings into bowls.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

This recipe yields a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your delicious homemade Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings!