Quick Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this quick Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 package (16 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps for a delicious bowl of chicken and dumplings in no time:

1. Prepare Your Instant Pot: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until slightly browned.
4. Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Release Pressure: After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
7. Shred the Chicken: Open the lid and remove the chicken pieces. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
8. Add Cream and Peas: Stir in the cream of chicken soup and milk, mixing well until everything is combined. Then, add the frozen peas and stir gently.
9. Prepare the Dumplings: Open the package of refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters and gently drop them into the pot over the chicken mixture.
10. Cook the Dumplings: Close the lid again, set the Instant Pot to high pressure for an additional 5 minutes. Make sure to set the valve to sealing.
11. Final Release: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam!
12. Serve: Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid, and gently stir the dumplings. They should be fluffy and cooked through. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Here are some tips to enhance your Instant Pot chicken and dumplings experience:

• Use Quality Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for organic or free-range chicken. Bone-in pieces add richness, but boneless can be used for a quicker prep.
• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before adding the dumplings.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for a bit of heat, or include fresh herbs like parsley or dill for freshness.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but here are some ideas for sides and garnishes that pair wonderfully:

• Fresh Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dumplings.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans can add a healthy touch.
• Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness.

FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe:

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time to 15 minutes and ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and seasonings.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure your chicken broth and cream soup are gluten-free as well.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just add them to the Instant Pot when you’re ready to cook.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe with these variations:

• Cheesy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a cheesy twist.
• Herb-Infused Dumplings: Add fresh herbs like chives or dill to the biscuit dough before cooking for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the broth for those who enjoy a spicy flavor.
• Coconut Milk Twist: Replace the milk with coconut milk for a creamy and slightly sweet variation.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg

Keep in mind that these values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Adjust according to your dietary needs.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

To ensure your Instant Pot chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken, high-quality broth, and fresh vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Batter: When preparing your dumplings, mix until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Be sure to taste the broth before adding the dumplings. Adjust the seasoning as needed, especially salt and pepper.
• Release Pressure Carefully: Use the quick release method with caution. Stand back as the steam releases, and ensure the valve is turned away from you.

Instant Pot vs. Stove Top: What’s the Difference?

While this recipe is designed for the Instant Pot, you might wonder how it compares to traditional stove-top methods. Here are some key differences:

• Cooking Time: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Development: The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking helps to lock in flavors, often resulting in a richer taste.
• Hands-Free Cooking: With the Instant Pot, you can set the timer and walk away, while stove-top cooking requires more attention.
• Texture of Dumplings: Dumplings cooked in the Instant Pot tend to be fluffier compared to those boiled on the stove.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some easy substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor:

• Chicken: Swap chicken breast for thighs for a juicier option, or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn based on what you have on hand.
• Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water with bouillon cubes can work in a pinch.
• Milk: For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.

Cooking for a Crowd

If you’re looking to serve a larger group, this Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe can easily be scaled up. Here’s how:

• Double the Recipe: Simply double all ingredients and increase the cooking time by a few minutes if necessary, ensuring everything is cooked through.
• Use Multiple Instant Pots: If you have more than one Instant Pot, use them simultaneously for quicker serving.
• Serve Buffet-Style: Set up a buffet and allow guests to serve themselves, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your chicken and dumplings fresh, consider these storage and reheating tips:

• Cool Before Storing: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Use Portion-Sized Containers: Store in individual servings for easy reheating and to prevent waste.
• Add Broth When Reheating: When reheating, add a little extra broth or water to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Once you’ve mastered the basic Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe, you can experiment with various flavors and ingredients to keep things exciting. Here are some delicious variations:

• Herbed Chicken and Dumplings: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the chicken before cooking for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat that complements the dish.
• Mushroom Chicken and Dumplings: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added flavor and texture.
• Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream after cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions that pair well with chicken and dumplings:

• Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping in the savory broth.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of seasonal steamed vegetables adds nutritional balance and color to your meal.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Dumplings

The dumplings are a crucial component of this dish. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly:

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dumpling ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings.
• Adjust Consistency: If the dough seems too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform dumplings, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough before adding it to the pot.

Conclusion

This Quick Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a perfect solution for a hearty meal that can be prepared in no time. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it brings comfort food to your table with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender textures that make this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights!