Instant Pot Chicken And Dumplings

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a warm and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, a rich and savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional methods. This recipe captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food while leveraging the convenience of the Instant Pot, making it a must-try for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe for its delicious flavors and satisfying textures. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, absorbing the fragrant broth, while the dumplings rise to fluffy perfection. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, making it ideal for those with hectic schedules, but it also fits well into a family-friendly lifestyle. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you!

Tips and Tricks

• Sauté First: Always sauté the onions, garlic, and chicken in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking. This step builds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t Overmix Dumplings: When preparing your dumpling dough, mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings.
• Pressure Release: Allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before switching to a quick release. This helps retain moisture and ensures your chicken stays tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking Chicken: Make sure to adhere to the cooking times; overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Use the chicken breast option in the recipe to avoid this.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds essential flavor and aroma to your dish.
• Improper Dumpling Consistency: If your dumpling dough is too wet or too dry, it will affect the texture. Measure your ingredients carefully and adjust as necessary.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prep the chicken by seasoning it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, chop your vegetables ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. The dumpling dough can also be prepared several hours in advance and kept covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Recipe Variations

• Herbs and Spices: Try adding thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: For a heartier dish, include peas, carrots, or celery in your broth.
• Alternative Cooking Method: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can prepare this dish in a slow cooker; just extend the cooking time to about 6-8 hours on low.

How to Serve

Serve the Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Use a ladle to scoop generous portions into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good amount of broth and fluffy dumplings. Pair with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Pairing Suggestions

Enjoy this dish with a crisp glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, consider pairing with sparkling water infused with lemon. Complement your meal with a side of roasted vegetables or a warm biscuit to soak up the savory broth.

How to Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and dumplings in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if needed to restore moisture.

Equipment Needed

• Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Dietary Adaptations

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the dumplings. If you want to make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for mushrooms or hearty vegetables like butternut squash and use vegetable broth.

Seasonal Adaptations

In the spring and summer, add fresh vegetables like zucchini and asparagus for a light and refreshing twist. In the fall and winter, root vegetables like carrots and parsnips make a hearty addition. Adjust the herbs based on what is freshest in your garden or at the local market.

Cost Breakdown

The estimated cost for this dish is around $12, serving 4 people, which breaks down to approximately $3 per serving. To save money, consider using frozen vegetables or bulk buying chicken when it’s on sale.

Kitchen Hacks

• Pre-Chop Veggies: Save time by pre-chopping your vegetables and storing them in the fridge for quick access.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For even dumplings, use a cookie scoop to drop the dough into the broth. This ensures consistent sizes and cooking times.
• Clean Up: Line your Instant Pot insert with a liner to make cleanup a breeze.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen chicken?: Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
• Can I use self-rising flour for dumplings?: Yes, but you may need to reduce the baking powder in the recipe.
• What can I substitute for chicken broth?: Vegetable broth or homemade stock works well as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

Making Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is not just about feeding your family; it’s about creating a warm, inviting meal that brings everyone together. This recipe is easily customizable and perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy this comforting classic as much as I do! Happy cooking!