Craving a warm, comforting meal? Let’s dive into the world of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings! This dish combines tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings for a perfect cozy dinner. In just a few steps, you can create a homemade meal that warms the soul. Join me as I guide you through the key ingredients, simple steps, and tips for making this classic recipe in your Instant Pot!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Seasonings and Vegetables
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Dried thyme and rosemary
Dumpling Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– Frozen peas for added flavor
Chicken and dumplings need simple, fresh ingredients. The chicken thighs work well because they stay juicy. The broth adds rich flavor. Fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery bring sweetness and crunch. Garlic adds depth and warmth.
For the dumplings, you only need a few items. Flour and baking powder create a fluffy texture. Milk helps bind it all together. Adding frozen peas at the end gives a pop of color and flavor.
This dish is cozy and fulfilling. You can find the Full Recipe at the end of the article.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Chicken and Vegetables
1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about one minute.
3. Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into small pieces.
4. Add the chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes.
5. Once the chicken is browned, chop 1 small onion, slice 2 medium carrots, and dice 2 celery stalks.
6. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and add all these veggies to the pot.
7. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft.
Pressure Cook the Chicken
1. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
3. Stir to mix well and scrape any bits from the bottom.
4. Securely close the lid of the Instant Pot.
5. Set to manual high pressure and adjust the timer to 10 minutes.
Prepare the Dumpling Dough
1. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
2. Gradually stir in 1 cup of milk until a sticky dough forms.
3. Once the chicken is done, carefully release the pressure by turning the valve to venting.
4. Open the lid and stir in 2 cups of frozen peas.
5. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the chicken mixture.
6. Close the lid again and set to manual high pressure for another 10 minutes.
7. After this time, perform a quick release again.
8. Open the lid and check that the dumplings are fluffy and cooked.
9. Stir gently to mix the dumplings into the chicken and broth.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
This recipe is simple and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal. For the complete details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Dumplings
To make great dumplings, focus on the dough’s consistency. The dough should be slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add a bit more milk. This gives you fluffy dumplings. For cooking time, keep it short. Ten minutes in the Instant Pot is just right. When done, they should feel light and airy.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the taste, add fresh herbs and spices. A sprinkle of parsley or thyme really wakes things up. You can also switch up your vegetables. Try adding corn, peas, or even green beans. Each choice adds its own flavor and texture.
Instant Pot Settings
Getting the settings right is key. Always make sure the sealing valve is closed before starting. This keeps the pressure inside. When it’s done cooking, you can choose quick release or natural release. Quick release is faster, but natural release makes flavors blend better. Both methods work well, so pick what suits you!
For more details, check out the Full Recipe and enjoy a cozy meal with your family!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Breasts are leaner and still taste great. You may notice a slight change in texture, but they will still work well.
Try adding different veggies too. Corn and green beans are solid choices. They add nice color and flavor. You can also mix it up with peas, carrots, and celery. Use what you have on hand.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free dumplings, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. It works well and keeps the dish tasty. You can find many options at the store.
For a low-sodium dish, choose low-sodium chicken broth. You can also skip the added salt. This way, you can enjoy the meal without the extra sodium.
Different Cooking Methods
You can make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker too. Just cook the chicken and veggies on low for about 6 hours. Then, add the dumplings and cook for another hour.
If you prefer the stovetop method, start by browning the chicken in a pot. Then, add the broth, seasonings, and veggies. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Finally, drop in the dumpling dough and cover until they cook through.
These variations make the recipe flexible. You can adjust it to fit your tastes and needs. For the full recipe, check out the main article.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, let them cool first. Place the chicken and dumplings in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. I recommend using glass containers, as they are durable and safe. You can also use BPA-free plastic containers. Make sure to seal them tightly to avoid spills.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the chicken and dumplings for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, transfer them to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the dish will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until hot. Stir well to ensure even heating.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your leftovers last about 3 to 4 days. If you freeze them, they can stay good for up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see any mold or if it smells off, it’s best to discard it. Keeping an eye on your food helps ensure it stays safe and tasty.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
It takes about 40 minutes to make this dish. You will spend around 15 minutes prepping. The cooking time is 25 minutes total. First, you sauté the chicken and veggies for about 8 minutes. Then, cook under high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by another 10 minutes for the dumplings. This quick meal fits into any busy schedule.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, it affects cooking time. If using frozen chicken, add an extra 5-10 minutes on the cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. The Instant Pot will cook the chicken thoroughly, so it’s safe to use straight from the freezer.
How do I know if the dumplings are cooked?
Check the dumplings after the second pressure cook. They should be fluffy and light. A quick poke with a fork can help. If the fork comes out clean, they are done. If they feel dense, give them a few more minutes inside the pot. The right texture is key for delicious dumplings.
You can cook a delicious Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings using simple ingredients. We covered all you need, from prep to cooking tips. You learned how to achieve fluffy dumplings and customize flavors. Don’t forget about storage tips to keep leftovers fresh.
Now, get cooking and enjoy a warm, comforting meal with loved ones! Your perfect dish awaits, so have fun with it!
