There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of chicken and dumplings after a long day. Imagine the savory aroma of garlic and onion sautéing in buttery olive oil, filling your kitchen with the kind of scent that tugs at heartstrings and invites everyone to gather around the table. I stumbled upon this Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe on a particularly hectic weeknight when takeout just wouldn’t cut it; I craved something homemade yet quick.
This dish beautifully combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With just a few pantry staples and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can prepare this Southern classic in under an hour. So wash off that takeout fatigue and embrace the flavors of home-cooked goodness that your family will adore. In no time, you’ll have a delightful meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nostalgia and heartwarming flavors. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe—and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why will you love Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe utilizes basic ingredients that you likely already have at home, making it easy to whip up on any busy weeknight.
Quick Meal Solution: With the Instant Pot, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in under an hour—perfect for those who are short on time but still want something homemade.
Comforting Flavors: The rich and creamy broth, combined with savory chicken and fluffy dumplings, creates a cozy dish that warms your soul.
Versatile Options: Easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins, ensuring it stays exciting every time you make it.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Looking for more comforting dishes? Check out our delicious Slow Cooker Beef Stew for another easy option!
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
• Gather these comforting components for your next family meal!
For the Dumplings
- Canned Biscuits – Provides the dumpling texture; feel free to substitute with homemade biscuit dough for an extra touch.
For the Chicken and Broth
- Boneless Chicken Breasts – Adds a hearty protein base; thighs work beautifully for more flavor.
- Chicken Broth – The essential base of your dish; opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Acts as a thickener and brings extra flavor; consider cream of mushroom for a new twist.
- Heavy Cream – Creates that rich, creamy broth you crave; half-and-half or non-dairy options can be lighter substitutions.
For Flavoring
- Olive Oil – For sautéing; can be swapped with vegetable oil or melted butter if desired.
- Butter – Enhances richness and depth of flavor beautifully.
- Garlic (diced) – Adds aromatic appeal; fresh is best, but jarred is a quick stand-in.
- Onion (diced) – A foundation of sweetness and texture; yellow or white onions work perfectly.
- Poultry Seasoning – Infuses an herby flavor; substitute with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for freshness.
For the Vegetables
- Celery (diced) – Provides a lovely crunch and flavor profile.
- Carrots (diced) – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Frozen Peas – For a pop of nutrition and color; fresh peas are delightful in season.
Prepare to create a dish filled with nostalgia and flavors that wrap around you like a warm hug. Your family will love this Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings as much as I do!
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Cut the Biscuits: Begin by cutting each canned biscuit into quarters and placing them in a bowl. This will help create those fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth.
- Sauté Aromatics: Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add butter and olive oil, allowing them to sizzle together for a rich flavor base.
- Cook Garlic and Onion: Add diced garlic and onion to the pot, stirring until the onions are translucent, about 1-2 minutes. This step adds a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Toss in the boneless chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream to create the creamy goodness we all crave.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add the diced celery and carrots into the mix, stirring well to combine everything harmoniously.
- Seal and Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid tightly, set it to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes. Don’t forget to ensure the venting is off!
- Release Pressure: Once the timer goes off, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
- Add Peas and Dumplings: Gently stir in the frozen peas, then top the mixture with the quartered biscuits, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
- Sauté Again: Set the Instant Pot to sauté once more, close the lid, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will help the dumplings steam to perfection.
- Final Pressure Release: Allow for a final natural pressure release for another 15 minutes, then release any residual pressure before serving this comforting delight.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Nothing complements a warm and hearty meal like the perfect side dishes. Picture your table adorned with delightful pairings that enhance the comforting experience of your chicken and dumplings.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth, a warm loaf adds that rustic touch to your meal.
- Garden Salad: A crisp salad brings freshness to the table. Opt for a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dumplings.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their bright color and tender crunch provide a delicious contrast to the soft dumplings, enhancing both flavor and texture.
- Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in creamy potatoes for a double dose of comfort. The combination of flavors is simply divine!
A glass of sweet iced tea can make your dinner feel extra special. The Southern classic pairs wonderfully, elevating your dining experience. Don’t forget dessert! A slice of lemon meringue pie can create a delightful ending to your meal, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.
Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Feel free to explore these tasty twists that can elevate your comforting dish into something uniquely yours!
- Rotisserie Chicken: Swap in pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for ultra-fast prep without sacrificing flavor. Just shred and stir into the broth!
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in frozen mixed vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans to add color and nutrition while keeping things vibrant.
- Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce before serving. This little change can transform the dish!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute to create a lighter, dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy. The flavors will still shine through!
- Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of poultry seasoning for a fragrant twist. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- Mushroom Magic: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for an earthy twist in flavor. The creamy texture will still seep into your dumplings.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuits to make this dish celiac-friendly while retaining all the comforting qualities you love.
- Flavor Infusion: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of white wine early in the sauté step for extra depth to the broth. It creates a delightful enhancement to every bite!
Discovering your perfect variation can make your Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings even more of a family favorite!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (like celery and carrots) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, feel free to dice the chicken and mix it with the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream, keeping it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped chicken mixture, and follow the remaining steps. This way, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready in no time, retaining the delightful flavors just as if you made it from scratch the same day!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring they’re cooled completely before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the mixture thickens too much after freezing.
Leftover Use: Get creative with leftover Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings by turning it into a flavorful pot pie or using it as a filling for wraps!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Uniform Biscuit Cuts: Make sure to cut the biscuits into even quarters to ensure they cook thoroughly and have that fluffy texture you desire.
- Avoid Burning: Keep an eye on garlic and onion while sautéing; they can quickly turn bitter if overcooked, so stir frequently.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing for natural pressure release after cooking helps the dumplings set properly and improves their texture—don’t rush this step!
- Thicker Broth Fix: If the broth turns out too thin, mix a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) and stir it into the pot before serving to achieve a creamier consistency.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, like green beans or corn, to the mix for added flavor and nutrition in this Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings.
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What kind of biscuits should I use for the dumplings?
I recommend using canned biscuits as they’re quick and easy, providing the perfect texture for dumplings. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade biscuit dough can elevate the dish even more, giving it a personal touch!
How should I store leftovers of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always make sure they are cooled completely before sealing to keep them fresh. When reheating, just add a splash of chicken broth if you find the mixture too thick.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the chicken and dumplings into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This keeps the flavors intact while making for an incredibly convenient meal!
What should I do if the broth is too liquidy after cooking?
If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can easily fix it with a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts of cornstarch and cold water (about 1 tablespoon of each), then stir it into the pot. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until it thickens up to that delicious creamy consistency you’re craving!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just use gluten-free biscuits and ensure your cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are gluten-free as well. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings without any gluten.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Always be cautious if you plan to share this dish with pets; it contains onions and garlic, which can be harmful to them. Additionally, check the labels on all canned products for common allergens if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions!
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings: A Cozy Quick Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut each canned biscuit into quarters and place them in a bowl.
- Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add butter and olive oil.
- Add diced garlic and onion to the pot, stirring until onions are translucent, about 1-2 minutes.
- Toss in the boneless chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth. Stir in cream of chicken soup and heavy cream.
- Add diced celery and carrots into the mix, stirring well to combine.
- Close the Instant Pot lid tightly, set to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes.
- Once done, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 15 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually.
- Gently stir in the frozen peas, then top with quartered biscuits.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté again, close the lid, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Allow for a final natural pressure release for another 15 minutes before serving.
