Introduction
Welcome to the world of delicious comfort food: chicken and dumplings! This classic dish is a favorite among many, with its tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings. It’s a perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly day or to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Making chicken and dumplings used to be a time-consuming process, but with the help of an electric pressure cooker, it has become quick and easy. This kitchen gadget will save you hours of cooking time while still delivering the same delicious results.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps of making chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker. From sautéing the vegetables to creating the perfect dumplings, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
But first, let’s talk about the key ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting dish.
Ingredients
To make delicious chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are easy to find and will create a flavorful base for your chicken and dumplings. Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add any additional vegetables or herbs you prefer.
Steps for Making Chicken and Dumplings
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker:
Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables
Set your electric pressure cooker to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Browning the Chicken
Remove the sautéed vegetables from the pressure cooker and set them aside. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown the chicken in the pressure cooker using the sauté mode. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Pressure Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables
Add the sautéed vegetables back into the pressure cooker with the browned chicken. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Secure the lid on the pressure cooker and set it to manual or pressure cook mode for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. The pressure cooker will do its magic, tenderizing the chicken and infusing the flavors.
Step 4: Making the Dumplings
While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually pour in the milk and mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Adding the Dumplings to the Chicken Mixture
Once the pressure cooker has completed its cooking cycle and released the pressure, carefully remove the lid. Stir the chicken and vegetables to break the chicken into smaller pieces. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering chicken mixture. Cover the pressure cooker with the lid again and set it to manual or pressure cook mode for another 5 minutes to cook the dumplings.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Remove the lid once again and give the chicken and dumplings a gentle stir. Add the chopped fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld together.
And there you have it! A comforting and delicious bowl of chicken and dumplings made effortlessly in an electric pressure cooker.
Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables
The first step in making chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker is sautéing the vegetables. This process helps to release their flavors and adds a depth of taste to the dish.
To begin, set your electric pressure cooker to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir the vegetables around, ensuring they are coated in the oil, and let them cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
The sautéing process helps to enhance the natural sweetness and aroma of the vegetables. It also allows them to release their moisture, which contributes to the overall richness of the dish. As they cook, you’ll start to notice the delicious aromas filling your kitchen, making the anticipation of a comforting meal even greater.
It’s important to keep an eye on the vegetables as they sauté, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pressure cooker. The goal is to soften them without browning or burning them.
Once the vegetables are tender and have developed a slightly caramelized flavor, remove them from the pressure cooker and set them aside. This step ensures that they retain their texture and don’t become mushy during the cooking process.
Sautéed vegetables form the foundation of the flavor profile in chicken and dumplings. They add a savory and aromatic base that complements the chicken and dumplings perfectly. Plus, they contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Now that the vegetables are sautéed, it’s time to move on to the next step: browning the chicken. This step adds another layer of flavor to the dish and helps to seal in the juices of the chicken, ensuring a tender and succulent result.
Step 2: Browning the Chicken
After sautéing the vegetables, the next step in making chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker is browning the chicken. This step not only adds depth of flavor but also helps to seal in the juices of the chicken, resulting in a moist and tender texture.
To begin, season your boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning helps to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Heat your electric pressure cooker on sauté mode and add a little bit of oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces into the pot.
The goal of browning the chicken is to create a beautiful caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for a few minutes on one side to develop a golden-brown color. This step may require multiple batches of chicken, depending on the size of your pressure cooker.
While the chicken is browning, the kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of sizzling chicken. The Maillard reaction, which occurs when proteins and sugars in the chicken are exposed to high heat, creates those delicious flavors and aromas that we love.
Once one side of the chicken is nicely browned, flip each piece over to cook the other side. This ensures even browning and flavor development. Be cautious when flipping the chicken to avoid any hot oil splatters.
Once all the chicken pieces are browned, remove them from the pressure cooker and set them aside. It’s important to note that the chicken will not be fully cooked at this stage. Browning the chicken is primarily for flavor and texture, and it will continue to cook during the pressure cooking phase.
By browning the chicken, you are adding a depth of flavor that can’t be achieved through other cooking methods. The caramelized exterior creates a savory crust while the interior remains juicy and tender.
Now that the chicken is browned and full of delicious flavors, it’s time to move on to the next step: pressure cooking the chicken along with the sautéed vegetables to create a rich and flavorful base for your chicken and dumplings.
Step 3: Pressure Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables
After sautéing the vegetables and browning the chicken, it’s time to combine them and let the electric pressure cooker work its magic. Pressure cooking infuses the flavors together and tenderizes the chicken, resulting in a rich and flavorful base for your chicken and dumplings.
Start by adding the sautéed vegetables back into the pressure cooker with the browned chicken. This combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors, with the vegetables providing a savory sweetness and the chicken adding its meaty richness.
Pour in the chicken broth, which will serve as the liquid base for the pressure cooking process. The broth adds depth and moisture to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Additionally, the herbs and spices in the broth will infuse the chicken and vegetables with delicious aromas.
Add dried thyme and a bay leaf to the pressure cooker for additional seasoning and a subtle herbal note. These ingredients contribute to the complexity of the dish and elevate the overall taste.
Secure the lid on the pressure cooker and set it to manual or pressure cook mode, depending on the specific settings of your pressure cooker model. Cook the chicken and vegetables under pressure for about 15-20 minutes, adjusting the time based on the size of your chicken pieces. The high pressure allows the flavors to meld together, and it helps to break down the chicken to a tender and juicy consistency.
During the pressure cooking process, the ingredients will release their natural flavors and juices, resulting in a rich and aromatic broth. The high heat and pressure also help the flavors penetrate the meat, ensuring that every bite is bursting with taste.
Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, release the pressure according to the instructions of your pressure cooker. Be cautious and follow the proper safety precautions when releasing the pressure to avoid any accidents.
When the pressure is fully released, carefully open the lid to reveal the flavorful mixture of chicken and vegetables. Give it a gentle stir, breaking the chicken into smaller pieces. The textures and flavors will have melded together to create a satisfying base for the chicken and dumplings.
Now that the chicken and vegetables are perfectly cooked, it’s time to move on to the exciting part – making the fluffy and delicious dumplings that will take your chicken and dumplings to the next level.
Step 4: Making the Dumplings
Now that the chicken and vegetables are simmering away in the flavorful broth, it’s time to turn our attention to making the dumplings. These soft and pillowy morsels will soak up the delicious broth and add a comforting element to your chicken and dumplings.
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. These simple pantry staples form the foundation of the dumpling dough. The flour provides structure, the baking powder adds a light and fluffy texture, and the salt enhances the overall flavor.
Gradually pour in the milk while stirring the dry ingredients. The milk acts as a binding agent and brings the dough together. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough dumplings.
The dumpling dough should be soft and slightly sticky. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding a bit more flour or milk, depending on the humidity and altitude in your kitchen. The goal is to achieve a dough that is easy to handle but not too dry or wet.
Once the dumpling dough is ready, it’s time to shape the dumplings. Using a spoon or your hands, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the simmering chicken and vegetable mixture. The dumplings will expand and cook in the aromatic broth, soaking up the flavors as they go.
Try to space the dumplings evenly throughout the pot, ensuring that they are fully submerged in the liquid. This will help them cook evenly from all sides. Don’t worry about getting the dumplings perfectly round or uniform in size. The rustic and homemade appearance only adds to their charm.
After adding the dumplings, cover the pressure cooker with the lid again. Set it to manual or pressure cook mode for another 5 minutes. This short cooking time allows the dumplings to fully cook through without becoming too dense or doughy.
While the dumplings are cooking, they will absorb some of the flavorful broth, creating a moist and tender texture. The steam created by the pressure cooker also helps the dumplings rise and become fluffy.
And there you have it – homemade dumplings that are ready to be enjoyed with your chicken and dumplings! The combination of the tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings creates a truly comforting and satisfying dish.
Now that the dumplings are cooked, it’s time for the final touches and plating of your delicious chicken and dumplings.
Step 5: Adding the Dumplings to the Chicken Mixture
With the dumplings made and the chicken and vegetables cooked to perfection, it’s time to bring everything together in a comforting and delicious dish. Step 5 involves adding the dumplings to the simmering chicken mixture, allowing them to soak up the flavors and become a integral part of your chicken and dumplings.
Once the pressure cooking is complete, carefully remove the lid of the electric pressure cooker. The aroma of the flavorful chicken and vegetables will greet you, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Give the chicken and vegetables a gentle stir to break the chicken into smaller pieces and distribute the flavors evenly. This step ensures that each spoonful of your chicken and dumplings will be a delightful combination of tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic broth.
Now it’s time to add the dumplings to the chicken mixture. Take spoonfuls of the prepared dumpling dough and drop them gently onto the simmering liquid. Try to space the dumplings evenly throughout the pot, allowing them to cook through evenly.
As the dumplings cook, they will absorb the savory broth and become soft, fluffy, and fully cooked. The moist environment of the pressure cooker ensures that they don’t dry out and become heavy. The result is a delightful combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in every bite.
Cover the pressure cooker with the lid once again and set it to manual or pressure cook mode for another 5 minutes. This final cooking stage allows the dumplings to finish cooking through and become infused with the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
During this last cooking phase, the dumplings will rise and expand, soaking up the flavors and becoming light and fluffy. They will be perfectly cooked, providing a satisfying and comforting texture that complements the tender chicken and flavorful broth.
After the final cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lid of the pressure cooker. The aroma of your homemade chicken and dumplings will be irresistible. Give the dish a gentle stir, incorporating the dumplings with the chicken and vegetables to ensure an even distribution.
Now that the dumplings are added and well-incorporated into the dish, it’s time for the finishing touches and plating of your delicious and comforting chicken and dumplings!
Step 6: Finishing Touches
You’re almost there! After completing the previous steps and letting the flavors meld together, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your delectable chicken and dumplings. These final steps will elevate the dish to perfection and enhance its taste and presentation.
Start by taking a moment to appreciate the aroma that fills your kitchen. The savory scent of the simmering chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings is enough to make your mouth water and your appetite soar.
Next, sprinkle in some freshly chopped parsley. The vibrant green color and herbaceous flavor will add a touch of freshness to your chicken and dumplings. This simple addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also brightens the overall taste of the dish.
Give the chicken and dumplings a gentle stir to distribute the parsley evenly throughout the dish. This ensures that every mouthful is infused with the subtle herbaceous notes and creates a harmonious flavor profile.
Now is the perfect time to taste and adjust the seasoning of your chicken and dumplings to your preference. Season with salt and pepper as needed, making sure to strike the right balance of flavors. The seasoning should enhance the taste of the chicken, vegetables, and broth without overpowering them.
Once you’re satisfied with the taste, allow the chicken and dumplings to sit for a few minutes. This rest period allows the flavors to meld even further and ensures that the dish is at an ideal temperature for serving.
When it comes to serving, place a generous portion of the chicken and dumplings into bowls or deep plates. Spoon some of the flavorful broth over the top, making sure to include a dumpling or two in each serving.
For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish your plates with a sprig of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. These little touches add a professional and enticing element to your homemade dish.
Finally, have warm, crusty bread or biscuits ready on the side to mop up any remaining broth and savor every last drop of flavor.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your bowl of comforting and delicious chicken and dumplings. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations
As with any recipe, there are always tips and variations that can help you customize and perfect your chicken and dumplings. Here are some suggestions to enhance your cooking experience and experiment with different flavors:
- For a richer broth, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking. This will add a luxurious touch to your chicken and dumplings.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water and stir it into the simmering chicken mixture. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, and the broth will thicken.
- Feel free to add more vegetables to your chicken and dumplings. Peas, corn, green beans, or mushrooms are wonderful additions that can add extra nutrition and flavor to your dish.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Adding a pinch of rosemary, thyme, or sage can add a delicious earthy note to the broth.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the broth. Adjust the heat level according to your taste preferences.
- To make it a one-pot meal, you can add diced potatoes or cubed butternut squash to the chicken and vegetables. This adds a delightful heartiness to the dish.
- If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend is suitable for baking and can create a soft and pliable dough.
- For a time-saving option, you can use pre-made biscuits instead of making your own dumplings. Simply cut the biscuits into quarters and drop them into the simmering chicken mixture.
- Leftovers of chicken and dumplings can be refrigerated and reheated the next day. The flavors tend to meld even more, making the dish taste even better.
These tips and variations are meant to inspire your creativity in the kitchen. Feel free to adapt and customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Cooking is an art, and exploring different flavors and techniques can be a delicious and rewarding journey.
Now armed with these tips and variations, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the comfort of homemade chicken and dumplings!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to make delicious chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker. This classic comfort food has been transformed into an easy and convenient dish that can be prepared in a fraction of the time. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings come together to create a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
By following the step-by-step instructions, you’ve sautéed the vegetables, browned the chicken, pressure cooked them to meld the flavors, made the soft and pillowy dumplings, and brought it all together in a comforting and flavorful dish. The result is a delightful combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth.
Remember to personalize your dish by experimenting with different seasonings and adding your favorite vegetables. Feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and create a dish that truly speaks to your taste buds.
Whether you’re serving this dish as a family meal, for a casual gathering, or just for a cozy night in, homemade chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings.
So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the comforting and delicious experience of making your own chicken and dumplings in an electric pressure cooker. Happy cooking!
