There’s something magical about Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken swimming in a savory broth, surrounded by fluffy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. The aroma wafting through your kitchen can make even the grumpiest cat come running for dinner. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps around you like a warm blanket on a chilly evening, making it the perfect dish to share with loved ones or to enjoy solo while binge-watching your favorite show.
I remember the first time I made Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings. My kitchen was a battlefield—flour flying everywhere as I tried to make dumplings from scratch. Spoiler alert: my kitchen looked like a scene from a cooking disaster movie. But when that first spoonful hit my taste buds, it was all worth it! This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, and it promises an explosion of flavor that will keep you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is incredibly easy to whip up, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights.
- The savory flavors of tender chicken and fresh herbs create a delightful taste experience.
- Plus, the visual appeal of golden dumplings floating in rich broth makes this dish irresistible.
- It’s versatile enough for casual dinners or special occasions, ensuring every meal feels like a celebration.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; nothing beats fresh garlic!
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth; chop it roughly so it dissolves nicely into the broth.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it’s the flavorful base of our dish.
- Carrots: Sliced carrots add sweetness and color; aim for bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Dumpling Mix: You can use store-bought mix or homemade dough; both work wonderfully in this recipe.
For the Seasoning:
- Dried Thyme: A classic herb that enhances flavor; about a teaspoon should do.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste; these basic seasonings can elevate your broth’s flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Saute’ mode. Add some oil and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent—about two minutes should do!
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the boneless chicken breasts into the pot. Season them with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Sear each side for about three minutes until they get that lovely golden hue.
Step 3: Add Broth and Veggies
Pour in the chicken broth along with sliced carrots. Stir gently to combine everything without breaking up the chicken too much.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the lid tightly and set your Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for ten minutes. It’ll seem like an eternity but trust me, it’s worth every second!
Step 5: Make Dumpling Batter
While that’s happening, mix up your dumpling batter according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe.
Step 6: Release Pressure & Add Dumplings
Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of pressure. Gently drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter over the chicken mixture. Close the lid again and cook on ‘Steam’ mode for another five minutes.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your hearty bowl of goodness!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl!
- You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry.
- With its rich flavors and cozy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken in the Instant Pot for that golden flavor. Next, sauté the veggies until tender, then add your broth and dumplings. Seal the pot, cook under pressure, and voilà! Dinner is served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings with herbs like thyme or rosemary. Swap out chicken for turkey or use frozen veggies instead of fresh for convenience. Don’t be shy about adding some spice if you like a kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, don’t skip the browning step; it adds depth of flavor.
- Use homemade broth if possible; it makes a world of difference!
- Lastly, let the dish rest for five minutes before serving—it helps with the flavors.
Sometimes I’ll whip this up when friends come over, and they always rave about how comforting it feels—like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket!
FAQs:
What is Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth. This recipe uses the Instant Pot for quick cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The pressure cooker infuses the chicken with flavor while ensuring it remains juicy and tender. The dumplings cook to perfection in the rich, savory broth, creating a hearty meal that warms the soul.
How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Making Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time under pressure. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you experience the convenience of this recipe, it will become a regular in your meal rotation.
Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you’re using frozen chicken breasts or thighs, increase the cooking time by about five minutes. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking will ensure that even frozen chicken turns out tender and flavorful. This makes it an excellent option for last-minute meals when you haven’t had time to thaw your meat.
What can I serve with Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a complete meal on its own; however, you may want to add some sides for variety. A fresh green salad pairs nicely, offering a crisp contrast to the creamy dish. You could also serve steamed vegetables or garlic bread for added texture and flavor. These options complement the rich flavors of chicken and dumplings while keeping your meal balanced and satisfying.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings:
In summary, Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a quick, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love. Using an Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but enhances flavors as well. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen chicken, this recipe guarantees tender meat and fluffy dumplings every time. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience!
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a hearty bowl of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings, featuring juicy chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth—perfect for cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 2 cups dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Saute' mode. Add oil, then toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the boneless chicken breasts to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Sear each side for about 3 minutes until golden.
- Pour in the chicken broth along with sliced carrots. Stir gently to combine without breaking up the chicken.
- Close the lid tightly and set your Instant Pot to 'Pressure Cook' on high for 10 minutes.
- While cooking, prepare your dumpling batter according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe.
- Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. Gently drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter over the chicken mixture. Close the lid again and cook on 'Steam' mode for an additional 5 minutes.
- Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce if desired. Enjoy your hearty bowl of goodness!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or use frozen vegetables for convenience. - Enhance flavors by adding herbs like rosemary or a hint of spice if desired. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
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