Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Instant Pot chicken and dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish characterized by tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. This easy one-pot meal provides a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner or family gathering. You may also find Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken useful.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines the convenience of the Instant Pot with a classic comfort dish. As someone who frequently uses my Instant Pot, I appreciate how quickly and efficiently it cooks chicken and allows for the perfect dumpling texture. This method reduces the cooking time significantly compared to traditional methods without sacrificing flavor.

Moreover, using fresh ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, and herbs enhances the dish’s natural flavors. The pressure cooking process brings all these components together, creating a cohesive and delicious meal. For those looking for a similar experience, you might enjoy angel chicken and rice casserole as another comforting option.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

   Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

2. Add Chicken and Broth

   Add cubed chicken and chicken broth. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

3. Release Pressure and Add Peas

   Quick release the pressure and open the lid. Stir in the frozen peas.

4. Prepare Dumplings

   Tear biscuit dough into pieces and gently drop on top of the chicken mixture.

5. Cook Dumplings

   Close the lid again and cook on high pressure for another 5 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve

   Quick release the pressure once again and stir in heavy cream if using. Serve warm.

Chef Tips for Perfect Results

• Select fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Make sure to properly sauté the vegetables to develop their sweetness.
• Consider using homemade chicken broth for enhanced taste.
• If you prefer more tender dumplings, reduce the pressure cooking time slightly.
• For added richness, a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving is delightful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: This can result in dry, tough meat. Always ensure you’re timing the pressure cooking correctly.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: The Instant Pot needs adequate liquid to pressurize. Without enough chicken broth, your dish may burn.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables adds depth of flavor that raw vegetables can’t provide.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Avoid putting too many ingredients at once as it affects cooking time and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Instant Pot chicken and dumplings can be paired beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A light garden salad with vinaigrette works well to cut through the richness of the dish. For gatherings, consider offering this alongside other comfort food favorites like crockpot chicken and gravy to keep the meal hearty and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating

Nutritional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the chicken for something else?

Yes, you can use turkey or even a plant-based protein as an alternative. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary with different proteins.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The pressure cooking time is generally reliable for doneness.

What if my dumplings are too dense?

This can occur if the dough is over-mixed. For a lighter texture, handle the dough gently and do not overwork it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great meal prep option.

What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?

Consider pairing it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the heartiness of the dish.

Conclusion

Instant Pot chicken and dumplings captures the essence of comfort food through its convenience and flavor. With tender chicken and luscious dumplings, it transforms any ordinary mealtime into a heartwarming experience.

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

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A comforting and hearty dish of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, perfect for any weeknight dinner or family gathering.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Chicken breast (cubed)
• 1 cup Chicken broth (Homemade or store-bought)
• 1 Carrot (sliced, can substitute with parsnip)
• 1 Celery stalk (sliced)
• 1 Onion (diced, yellow or white recommended)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic (minced, fresh or powdered)
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (or use fresh thyme if available)
• 1 cup Frozen peas (defrosted before adding)
• 1 can Biscuit or dumpling dough (store-bought biscuits are convenient)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons Heavy cream (optional, adds richness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and broth: Add cubed chicken and chicken broth. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Release pressure and add peas: Quick release the pressure and open the lid. Stir in the frozen peas.
4. Prepare dumplings: Tear biscuit dough into pieces and gently drop on top of the chicken mixture.
5. Cook dumplings: Close the lid again and cook on high pressure for another 5 minutes.
6. Finish and serve: Quick release the pressure once again and stir in heavy cream if using. Serve warm.

Notes

Select fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Properly sautéing the vegetables helps develop their sweetness.

• Author: jayne
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pressure Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken, dumplings, instant pot, comfort food, one pot meal