Paula Deen's Slow Cooker Southern Chicken and Dumplings

Enjoy Paula Deen's Slow Cooker Southern Chicken and Dumplings. In just 6 hours (prep + cook), this easy recipe features tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for family meals!

about introduction

when you think of comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like paula deen's slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings, this classic dish not only warms the heart but also brings a slice of southern hospitality right to your table, it’s rooted in a rich culinary history that nods to the south's agricultural bounty and family traditions, the combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates an inviting aroma that fills your home with warmth and nostalgia .

the unique selling point of this recipe is its simplicity paired with incredible flavors, with just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work for you perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. plus, it's a crowd - pleaser that serves six generously; you can easily adjust quantities if you're feeding a larger group or want leftovers for those cozy lunches .

master the art of paula deen's slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings

paula deen’s recipe showcases southern cuisine's rich culinary heritage where meals are often prepared slowly to bring out deep flavors, originating from humble beginnings as a way to stretch ingredients during tough times, chicken and dumplings have evolved into a beloved staple across america today, each bite tells a story steeped in tradition, making this dish not just food but an experience filled with cultural significance .

in modern - day kitchens, this dish remains incredibly popular due to its straightforward preparation method combined with hearty satisfaction, families gather around tables filled with steaming bowls of chicken soup topped with soft dumplings a comforting ritual that transcends generations .

your new favorite paula deen's slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings

get ready for unique flavor combinations that will make your taste buds dance. the savory blend of shredded chicken infused with aromatic herbs meets pillowy dumplings laced through thick broth it’s pure magic in every spoonful. and don’t worry if cooking isn't your strong suit; this recipe features foolproof techniques anyone can master.

experts have tested these methods countless times ensuring they deliver perfectly cooked results every time, you’ll discover time - saving tips along the way : using store - bought rotisserie chicken instead ? genius move. it cuts down on prep without skimping on flavor .

health & nutrition highlights

while paula deen’s slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings is undeniably delicious, it's also packed with key nutritional benefits worth celebrating. with tender boneless skinless chicken thighs contributing high - quality protein alongside colorful veggies like carrots and celery this dish offers ample nourishment while being downright tasty.

for those mindful about dietary considerations don't fret. you can easily swap ingredients based on preferences or restrictions (like choosing whole wheat flour for dumpling mix), the wellness advantages are plenty too; satisfying cravings without heavy guilt makes it ideal comfort food done right.

let’s break down balanced nutrition facts : each serving has around 380 calories with healthy amounts coming from carbs (35g) plus proteins (~30g) making it suitable even if you're watching what you eat.

recipe at a glance

so here we go the quick rundown on what you'll need regarding preparation :

• total preparation time : just 15 minutes before letting your slow cooker do its magic .
• skill level required : easy - peasy; perfect even if you're new to cooking.
• serving size details : feeds six hungry mouths comfortably but feel free to scale up or down.
• cost efficiency : super budget - friendly thanks largely thanks to using everyday ingredients without breaking bank accounts not bad right ?

in summary, paula deen's slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings isn't merely another meal it embodies warmth through shared moments over delicious food steeped in history while providing ample health benefits too. grab your apron because it might just become your new favorite dish as well all served hot straight from pot into bowl within hours.

master ingredient list

premium core ingredients

when it comes to making paula deen's slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings, using high - quality ingredients can make all the difference, here’s what you need :

• 4 cups boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lbs) : look for fresh, organic chicken when possible, the thighs are juicier than breasts and will give your dish a lovely richness, if buying frozen, ensure there’s no freezer burn .

• 1 medium onion, chopped : opt for yellow onions as they add a nice sweetness when cooked down, store onions in a cool, dry place away from potatoes to prevent sprouting .

• 3 cloves garlic, minced : fresh garlic is key here. choose firm bulbs with tight skins; soft or sprouted ones won't have the same punchy flavor, keep garlic in a dark area to prolong its life .

• 4 cups low - sodium chicken broth : homemade broth is best if you have the time it's richer and more flavorful. however, if using store - bought, check the sodium levels on the label for better control over seasoning .

• 1 cup carrots, sliced : go for vibrant orange carrots they're sweeter and tastier. keep them refrigerated in a crisper drawer wrapped loosely in plastic to maintain freshness .

• 1 cup celery, sliced : look for crisp stalks without blemishes or wilting leaves, celery can stay fresh up to two weeks if stored upright in water or wrapped tightly in aluminum foil .

signature seasoning blend

to elevate your dish even more, let’s talk about seasoning.

• salt and pepper to taste : always use kosher salt if possible; it dissolves easily and has better flavor than table salt, freshly cracked black pepper offers deeper notes compared to pre - ground varieties .

for some added depth of flavor :

• consider adding dried thyme or rosemary a pinch goes a long way.

a sprinkle of paprika could also bring out extra warmth just be careful not to overdo it.

smart substitutions

sometimes life throws curveballs like missing an ingredient or dietary needs popping up unexpectedly. here are some simple swaps :

• instead of chicken thighs ? use drumsticks or even rotisserie chicken tossed in at the end talk about easy peasy.

• for those avoiding gluten ? whole wheat flour works well instead of all - purpose flour in your dumpling mix .

if you're cooking for someone dairy - free ? substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk it’ll still yield fluffy dumplings without any sacrifice on taste.

you can also toss peas into this recipe towards the end if you happen upon them during summer they add color and nutrition.

kitchen equipment essentials

before diving headfirst into cooking bliss with your slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings recipe from paula deen's heartwarming kitchen traditions let's talk tools you'll need :

• slow cooker : a must - have appliance that does most of the work while you go about your day. aim for one that holds at least 6 quarts so it can accommodate everything comfortably .

• cutting board & sharp knife : a good knife helps speed things along when chopping veggies and trust me; nobody wants soggy carrot bits stuck everywhere.

helpful gadgets include :

• mixing bowls (for that dumpling batter)

• measuring cups/spoons – accuracy is vital here.

and seriously consider investing in a cookie scoop; it'll help drop perfectly sized dumplings right onto that bubbling stew.

pro ingredient tips

alright folks it’s time i share my top secrets learned through trial - and - error while whipping up this comfort food classic :

1, when selecting chicken thighs at stores don’t hesitate asking meat counter staff where they source their poultry you want quality cuts without hidden additives.

1, buying spices whole rather than pre - ground means fresher flavors every time. invest in an inexpensive spice grinder it opens up new worlds of flavor possibilities .

1, for storage solutions try vacuum - sealing leftover herbs before freezing their shelf life increases significantly this way.

1, lastly if budget constraints arise early on buy bulk grains like flour instead of smaller packages; it's often much cheaper per ounce - wise too even perfecting homemade dumplings will save you cash long - term.

so there we have it a thorough guide packed full of tips tailored specifically toward mastering paula deen’s slow cooker southern chicken & dumplings adventure right from home along with ingredient insights that'll surely impress family & friends alike. happy cooking 🎉

professional cooking guide

essential preparation steps

before you dive into cooking, let’s talk about mise en place , this fancy french term just means "everything in its place ." gather all your ingredients and tools first, chop veggies, measure spices, and have everything ready to go, it saves time and keeps the chaos at bay when you're in the thick of it.

for prep techniques, be sure to use sharp knives for chopping; they make a world of difference, when slicing onions or garlic, try using a technique called "rocking" it’s efficient and super easy once you get the hang of it.

time management is crucial in professional kitchens, if you're making multiple dishes, start with those that take longer to cook like meats or grains and then work on quick - cooking items like vegetables or sauces .

stay organized : keep your workspace clean by wiping down surfaces as you go, a cluttered kitchen can lead to mistakes or accidents .

professional cooking method

now onto the actual cooking. follow these step - by - step processes for efficiency :

1, preheat your oven : always preheat your oven before starting any baking usually between 350°f (175°c) and 425°f (220°c), depending on what you’re making .

1, control temperature : use a thermometer to check doneness; this is especially important for meats (165°f/74°c for poultry), for simmering sauces or soups, maintain a gentle bubble rather than boiling vigorously .

1, timing precision : timing can make or break a dish. start timing once you've added ingredients together rather than when you begin prep work .

1, success indicators : look for visual cues like browning on proteins or bubbling in sauces as signs that things are progressing as they should be .

expert techniques

incorporating professional methods can elevate your home cooking :

• searing meat : get your pan hot before adding oil; this helps create that lovely crust we all love .

• deglazing : after searing meat, add wine or broth to lift those flavorful brown bits stuck to the pan this adds depth to your sauce.

• precision points : pay attention while seasoning throughout cooking rather than just at the end; layering flavors will enhance overall taste .

quality checks are key here too. taste often during cooking but remember not all seasonings hit their peak flavor immediately some need time to meld together .

success strategies

even seasoned cooks run into bumps along the way; here's how you can troubleshoot effectively :

• if something doesn’t taste right mid - way through ? adjust with acid (like lemon juice) if it's too fatty or add sweetness if it’s too salty .

• for quality assurance : always double - check ingredient measurements against recipes prior to starting you'd be surprised how one wrong measurement can throw off an entire dish.

to achieve perfect results guide yourself by following recipes closely until you're comfortable enough experimenting with them later on.

finally, consider those final touches : garnish dishes with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving it looks beautiful and adds freshness.

with these tips under your belt, you'll feel more confident tackling any recipe thrown your way while ensuring delicious results every single time. happy cooking.

master chef's advice

when it comes to cooking, every little tip from a pro can make a big difference, for this paula deen slow cooker dish, one crucial insight is to season your chicken well before adding the broth, it really helps deepen those flavors as they meld together over hours of low - and - slow cooking .

also, don’t be shy about using fresh herbs. tossing in some thyme or rosemary with your onions and garlic can elevate this dish to new heights, and here's a pro technique : if you opt for homemade broth instead of store - bought, you'll notice the richness immediately like an embrace from grandma.

lastly, remember that patience is key. the longer you let it simmer (up to 8 hours on low), the more pronounced those flavors become, keeping an eye on the dumplings during steaming will also guarantee success; they should be fluffy and light .

perfect presentation

you’ve worked hard in the kitchen; now it's time for that delicious reveal. to plate your southern chicken and dumplings beautifully, start by ladling generous portions into deep bowls this soup deserves space .

for garnishing ideas, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley right before serving it adds a pop of color and freshness, if you want to take it up a notch visually, consider drizzling just a touch of olive oil around the edges for that "chef's kiss" look .

serving suggestions ? grab some crusty bread rolls or cornbread on the side it not only looks great but also makes cleanup easier when everyone wants to mop up that yummy sauce.

storage & make - ahead

got leftovers ? lucky you. store any extra chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, want them longer - lasting ? freeze individual portions the perfect solution for busy weeknights ahead.

when reheating, use a microwave - safe bowl covered with plastic wrap or transfer everything back into your slow cooker on low heat until warmed through, just remember : go slow so those dumplings don’t get tough.

one tip i learned ? always taste before serving again after reheating; sometimes flavors mellow out in storage. a quick tweak here or there (maybe more salt) can renew its glory.

creative variations

let’s get creative. there are endless possibilities with this recipe, try swapping out traditional veggies for seasonal produce like butternut squash in fall or peas during springtime they add vibrant colors and unique tastes .

if you're looking at dietary modifications, use whole wheat flour instead of all - purpose flour for those dumplings, you could even go gluten - free by opting for almond flour just note that texture may change slightly .

feeling adventurous ? add spices like cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for a southern twist that'll wow anyone at dinner.

expert faq solutions

have questions while making this dish ? no worries you’re not alone. one common concern is whether your chicken stays tender after long cooking times; trust me : as long as it's boneless thigh meat (or drumsticks.), you'll have perfectly juicy results .

if you're worried about thickening too much during cooking that happens sometimes simply stir in some additional milk right before serving to loosen things up without sacrificing flavor .

and hey a final success tip : always keep tasting along the way. adjusting seasoning gradually helps ensure each bite remains delightful even if something feels off mid - way through cooking .

complete nutrition guide

now let's talk nutrition because who doesn’t love feeling good about what they're eating ? each serving of paula deen’s slow cooker southern chicken and dumplings provides approximately 380 calories packed with protein from chicken thighs about 30 grams per serving.

it's hearty comfort food filled with fiber - rich carrots and celery too not bad at all. just keep portion guidance in mind if you’re watching calorie intake since these servings are quite filling due to their rich ingredients .

beyond mere numbers lies health benefits galore a warm bowl offers nourishment while comforting soul vibes fill hearts around family tables during gatherings alike the ultimate win - win situation.

Previous Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Hearty & Comforting
Next Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Cowboy Soup Delight