Welcome to the cozy world of comfort food! 🌟 If you’ve been searching for a heartwarming dish that’s both delicious and dairy-free, look no further than Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth.
It’s the perfect meal for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra love in your life. What makes this dish even more special is its simplicity. With the help of a trusty crock pot, you can set it and forget it!
Just toss in your ingredients, let them mingle, and come back to a warm, inviting meal that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to cater to those with dairy sensitivities or anyone looking to reduce their dairy intake without sacrificing flavor. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Key Takeaways
- Dairy-free crock pot chicken and dumplings is a comforting and delicious meal that can be easily made in a slow cooker.
- Ingredients like dairy-free milk, dairy-free butter, and dairy-free biscuits can be used as substitutions in this recipe.
- Follow step-by-step instructions to make dairy-free crock pot chicken and dumplings, including cooking the chicken, adding vegetables, and making the dumplings.
- Tips for perfecting dairy-free crock pot chicken and dumplings include adjusting the seasoning to taste and ensuring the dumplings are fully cooked.
- Serve dairy-free crock pot chicken and dumplings hot, and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Experiment with variations and additions like adding herbs or using different vegetables to customize the dish.
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Ingredients and Substitutions for Dairy-Free Chicken and Dumplings
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs—both work wonderfully.
For the broth, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth to keep things light and flavorful. Don’t forget the veggies! Carrots, celery, and onions add a lovely depth of flavor and nutrition.
Now, let’s talk about those dumplings! Traditional recipes often call for milk and butter, but we’re going dairy-free here! Instead, you can use almond milk or coconut milk as a creamy substitute.
For the fat component, olive oil or vegan butter works perfectly. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, consider using gluten-free flour for the dumplings.
Tip: Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are dairy-free!
🥛🚫 If you’re feeling adventurous or have specific dietary needs, there are plenty of substitutions you can make. For instance, if you prefer a plant-based protein, chickpeas or tofu can be excellent alternatives to chicken. You can also add in other vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and flavor.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—feel free to customize it to suit your taste buds! 🌈✨
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients Preparation
| Ingredients | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 1.5 lbs |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Carrots | 3, sliced |
| Celery | 3 stalks, sliced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Thyme | 1 tsp |
| Rosemary | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Coconut milk | 1 can |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Non-dairy butter | 2 tbsp |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
Cooking Instructions
Print RecipeSet the crock pot:
Cover the pot and set it on:
Low for 6-8 hours.
High for 3-4 hours.
Tip: Cooking on low for longer will make the chicken more tender!
Dumpling Preparation
Cover the crock pot again and let them steam on high for about 30 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
Make the dumplings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Flour (or gluten-free flour)
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Dairy-free milk substitute
- Stir until just combined (do not overmix for light and airy dumplings!).
Add dumplings to crock pot:
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken mixture.
Steam the dumplings:
Cover the crock pot again and let them steam on high for about 30 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
Check for doneness: Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, use a fork to check if the chicken is tender and can easily be shredded.
Recommended Tools for Creating Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Crock Pot/Slow Cooker
- A reliable slow cooker is essential for making this dish. Look for one with adjustable temperature settings (low and high) for flexibility.
- Chef’s Knife
- A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for chopping vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery efficiently and safely.
- Cutting Board
- A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping and prepping your ingredients. Ideally, use a separate board for vegetables.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Accurate measuring tools are necessary for ensuring that your ingredients are added in the right proportions.
- Mixing Bowl
- A medium-sized mixing bowl is great for preparing the dumpling batter, allowing ample space to mix without spills.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Use a wooden spoon or a spatula for stirring ingredients in the crock pot and mixing the dumpling batter. These tools are gentle on your slow cooker’s interior.
- Serving Ladle
- A ladle makes it easy to serve the chicken and dumplings into bowls without making a mess.
- Storage Containers
- Airtight containers are helpful for storing leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer, keeping your meals fresh for later enjoyment.
- Instant Read Thermometer (Optional)
- An instant-read thermometer can be handy for checking that the chicken is cooked through, ensuring food safety.
- Potato Masher (Optional)
- If you want to create a thicker broth, a potato masher can help mash some of the vegetables in the crock pot before serving.
- Programmable Digital Timer: Control cooking times from 30 minutes up to 20 hours
- Serve a Crowd: 6 quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker serves 7 plus people
- Locking Lid: Lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess during transport
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- DURABLE HIGH CARBON STEEL: Made from Japanese alloy steel AUS-8 with a hardness rating of HRC 59±1, this Japanese cookin…
- Food storage containers feature crystal-clear, BPA-free Tritan plastic lids and bases with 360-degree clarity; they help…
- Built-in vents under latches allow splatter-resistant microwaving with the lid on
- Stain-resistant material keeps plastic food container looking like new, and resists odors
With these tools at your disposal, you’ll find the process of making Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings not only easy but enjoyable!
Tips for Perfecting Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
To elevate your Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings experience, here are some handy tips that will help you achieve perfection every time! First off, don’t skip on seasoning! A well-seasoned broth is key to bringing out all those delicious flavors.
Taste as you go and adjust accordingly—this is your chance to make it uniquely yours! 🌿✨ Another great tip is to avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking. Each time you open the lid, heat escapes, which can prolong cooking time.
Trust the process! If you’re worried about overcooking the chicken, remember that it will continue to cook slightly after you turn off the crock pot due to residual heat. For those who love a little kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your broth for an extra layer of flavor.
And if you want to make it even heartier, feel free to throw in some potatoes or sweet potatoes along with your veggies! They’ll soak up all that delicious broth while adding a comforting texture. 🥔💕
- Set Of 3 Mixing Bowls
- Bowls Nest Together For Convenient Storage
- Dishwasher-safe Design
Serving and Storing Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Once your Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings are ready, it’s time to serve up this delightful dish! Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that will warm your heart and soul!
🍞💖 If you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a win!), storing them is super easy! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the dumplings and prevent them from drying out.
Tip: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through—nobody likes cold dumplings! ❄️➡️🔥
Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Vegetables:
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 carrots sliced
- 3 celery stalks sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Herbs:
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
Broth:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Dairy-Free Ingredients:
- 1 can coconut milk for creaminess
- 2 tbsp non-dairy butter or olive oil
Dumplings:
- 1/4 cup flour or gluten-free flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup dairy-free milk alternative like almond or coconut milk
Optional:
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces if desired.
Set Up the Crock Pot:
- Place the chicken, chopped vegetables, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves into the crock pot.
Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Cook:
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
- If using peas, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Make the Dumplings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the dairy-free milk and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Add Dumplings:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken mixture in the crock pot.
Steam the Dumplings:
- Cover the crock pot again and let the dumplings steam on High for about 30 minutes, until fluffy and cooked through.
Check for Doneness:
- Ensure the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable.
Video
Notes
Variations and Additions to Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
The beauty of Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings lies in its versatility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. For instance, if you want to add some greens, throw in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra nutritional boost!
🥬💚 Feeling adventurous? Try adding different spices or herbs like curry powder for an exotic twist or Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flair. You can also experiment with different types of dumplings—try adding herbs like dill or chives into the batter for an aromatic touch!
For those who love a bit of crunch, consider topping your finished dish with crispy fried onions or croutons just before serving. This adds an exciting texture contrast that will delight your taste buds! The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this comforting classic—so let your creativity shine!
🌟🎨 Dairy-Free Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that everyone will adore—dairy-free or not! So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful comfort food together!
If you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings soup made in the crock pot, be sure to give it a try.
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