Introduction
Craving a comforting, home-style meal but short on time? Look no further than this Instant Pot chicken and dumplings with veggies recipe! This one-pot wonder delivers tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth – all cooked in your trusty Instant Pot. Forget hours of simmering; this recipe cuts down on cooking time without sacrificing that classic, heartwarming taste. Get ready for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup – everything cooks in the Instant Pot!
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and a variety of vegetables.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the vegetables and seasonings to your liking.
- Comfort Food Classic: A modern twist on a beloved family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Vegetables: Onion, carrots, celery, peas (fresh or frozen), and any other favorites like potatoes or green beans.
- Broth: Chicken broth or chicken stock (low sodium is preferred)
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, bay leaf
- Dumplings: Biscuit dough (canned or homemade)
- Butter or Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
Making the Chicken and Dumplings: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function.
- Add butter or olive oil to the pot.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth
- Add the chicken pieces to the Instant Pot.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered. Add bay leaf.
- Stir to combine.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position.
- Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 8 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Add Dumplings and Additional Vegetables
- Open the Instant Pot carefully.
- Stir in the frozen peas (or other delicate vegetables).
- Cut the biscuit dough into smaller pieces (quarters or eighths).
- Drop the dumpling pieces into the Instant Pot, distributing them evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
- Close the Instant Pot lid (no need to lock it).
- Set the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- For a thicker broth: Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the Instant Pot during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add more vegetables: Mushrooms, potatoes, green beans, or corn all work well in this recipe.
- Use different seasonings: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano.
- Homemade Dumplings: For a truly homemade experience, use your favorite dumpling recipe.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuit dough for a gluten-free version.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot chicken and dumplings with veggies recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for a cozy night in. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your Instant Pot, and get ready to savor this heartwarming classic!
