Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken & Dumplings

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken & Dumplings, a dish that perfectly blends creamy textures with the savory, zesty kick of ranch seasoning. This easy-to-make meal transforms classic chicken stew into something special, making it a hearty, family-friendly favorite for busy weeknights.

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By simmering the chicken slowly with aromatic vegetables and broth, you create a deep flavor profile that serves as the perfect base for the biscuits. The addition of frozen peas and condensed soup ensures a velvety consistency that wraps around the shredded chicken in every bite.

Ingredients

• Chicken & Stew
• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) ranch seasoning mix
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
• Dumplings
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• OR 1 can (16 oz / 450 g) refrigerated biscuit dough

Instructions

Step 1

Place chicken, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, garlic, black pepper, and thyme in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Step 2

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender.

Step 3

Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the slow cooker. Add frozen peas and stir.

Step 4

For drop biscuits: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 5

Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough on top of the stew in the slow cooker (or place refrigerated biscuit dough pieces on top).

Step 6

Cover and cook on high for 1 hour, until biscuits are cooked through and fluffy.

Step 7

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When shredding the chicken, you can do it directly in the pot to save on cleanup, ensuring the meat is well-coated in the savory ranch gravy. Make sure to use a 6-quart slow cooker to provide enough space for the biscuits to expand and cook evenly without being crowded.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you are looking for a shortcut, use canned biscuit dough instead of making them from scratch. For those who want an even heartier meal, adding diced potatoes at the beginning of the cooking process is an excellent way to bulk up the stew.

Serviervorschläge

This all-in-one meal is quite filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of sautéed green beans to add a fresh contrast to the creamy textures of the chicken and dumplings.

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Whether it is a cold winter evening or just a day when you need a little extra comfort, this Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken & Dumplings is guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy the rich aromas filling your home as it cooks, and savor every bite of this American classic.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just add about 1-2 hours to the initial cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through completely before shredding.

→ What's the difference between drop biscuits and refrigerated dough?

Homemade drop biscuits have a lighter, more rustic texture and allow you to control the ingredients. Refrigerated biscuit dough is more convenient and produces a taller, fluffier biscuit. Both work beautifully in this dish.

→ Can I make this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer everything except the dumplings in a large Dutch oven or pot for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Add the dumplings and cook covered for another 15-20 minutes until fluffy.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The biscuits may soften as they absorb liquid, but the flavors will continue to develop.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Freeze the stew portion (chicken and vegetables) for up to 3 months. The biscuits don't freeze well, so make fresh ones when reheating or use store-bought refrigerated dough.

→ What vegetables can I add or substitute?

Diced potatoes, green beans, corn, or mushrooms work well. You can also add fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.