Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chicken And Dumplings With Canned Biscuits For Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, you’ve come to the right place. This Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings with Canned Biscuits is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. It’s a dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked in a creamy sauce. Plus, with the use of canned biscuits, you can whip this up with minimal effort. Let’s dive in!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Serving: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, low-fat
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuits (reduced-fat if available)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preparing your slow cooker. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, stirring until well blended. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables, diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well.
- Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently fold the biscuit pieces into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the biscuits are cooked through and fluffy.
- Once the biscuits are done, give everything a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Why This Recipe Works for Meal Prep
This Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is an excellent option for meal prep because it’s simple to make and stores well. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Moreover, you can portion out the servings and store them in individual containers for the week. This makes it easy to grab a healthy meal on busy days when cooking might feel overwhelming.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Dumplings
To ensure your dish is as delicious as possible, consider these tips:
- Quality Chicken: Using fresh chicken breasts will yield the best results. If you have time, marinating the chicken in some spices before cooking can elevate the flavors.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand. Celery, bell peppers, or even spinach can be great additions.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider using a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) added in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 hours to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the biscuits with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, check that your cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are gluten-free.
How can I make this dish creamier?
If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or some Greek yogurt right before serving to enhance the creaminess.
What can I serve with chicken and dumplings?
This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings with Canned Biscuits is a comforting and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. It’s a simple, delicious, and nutritious option that you can prepare ahead of time. With minimal prep work and the convenience of a slow cooker, you’ll have a warm meal waiting for you when you get home.
Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients to make it your own! Whether you add herbs, spices, or additional vegetables, this dish is versatile enough to suit your preferences. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen!
