Craving Comfort Food? How To Make Instant Pot Chicken And Dumplings In Minutes!

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the art of creating mouthwatering Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings. This classic comfort food is a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty weekend brunch. Follow our step-by-step guide and master the art of making this heartwarming dish in your trusty Instant Pot.

Ingredients for the Chicken and Broth

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 10 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for the Dumplings

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot

Add the chicken, chopped vegetables, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme to the Instant Pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Cook the Chicken

Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.

3. Remove the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

4. Prepare the Dumplings

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a different bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Drop the Dumplings

Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, drop the dumpling batter by rounded tablespoons onto the simmering broth in the Instant Pot.

6. Cook the Dumplings

Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the chicken and dumplings with fresh parsley or chives. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crusty bread roll.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Use a whole chicken for a richer flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dumpling batter. Overmixing will result in tough dumplings.
• If the dumplings are not cooked through after the 5-minute cook time, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Be careful when quick-releasing the pressure. Hot steam will escape from the Instant Pot.
• Leftover chicken and dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Variations on the Classic

• Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the broth before cooking the dumplings.
• Vegetable Chicken and Dumplings: Add a cup of chopped vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or corn, to the broth.
• Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the broth for a kick of heat.
• Cheesy Chicken and Dumplings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the dumplings before cooking.

The Joy of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any occasion. It’s a culinary masterpiece that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your taste buds and warm your soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can. Use 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. Reduce the cooking time to 10 minutes on high pressure.

2. What can I do if my dumplings are too dense?

Overmixing the dumpling batter can cause dense dumplings. Make sure to mix the ingredients until just combined.

3. How can I thicken the broth?

If you prefer a thicker broth, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the broth after cooking the dumplings. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.