Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful vegetables and fluffy dumplings—all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is a true winner. The hearty broth transforms into a savory gravy, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, dinner is ready in under an hour, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of herbs and fresh ingredients creates a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft dumplings and tender chicken, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the vegetables or add your favorite seasonings to make this dish your own.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This versatile appliance speeds up cooking times while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining dry ingredients for the dumplings.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing batter smoothly without lumps.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pots.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is full of tender chicken and vegetables with easy homemade dumplings. The flavorful broth is thickened into a delicious gravy after cooking. One of the best Instant Pot dinner recipes!

For the Dumplings

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into 6 cubes)
• ¾ cup milk (whole milk is best)

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (4-6 thighs)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 ribs celery (chopped)
• 3 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas

For Thickening the Broth

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and mix until crumbly. Pour in the milk gradually while stirring until a dough forms. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and butter, allowing it to melt. Stir in chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add bone-in chicken thighs to the pot along with low sodium chicken broth, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot. Set it to Manual or Pressure Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done cooking, perform a quick release of pressure.

Step 5: Add Dumplings

Open the lid carefully. Remove the chicken thighs to shred them before returning them to the pot. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough over the soup mixture. Close the lid again.

Step 6: Final Cooking Phase

Set the Instant Pot to Manual or Pressure Cook on high pressure for another 5 minutes. After cooking, let it naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release again.

Step 7: Thicken Gravy

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pot along with frozen peas. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

Gently stir everything together before serving hot in bowls. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and it pairs well with various sides and garnishes.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Leaves – Add a few fresh thyme leaves just before serving for an aromatic touch.

Alongside Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – Serve with slices of warm sourdough to soak up the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread can add a deliciously savory element to the meal.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken and dumplings.
• Mixed Greens – Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a healthy balance and enhance the meal’s freshness.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Perfecting Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is easier than you think! Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs – They add more flavor and moisture compared to boneless cuts.
• Don’t Overmix Dumpling Dough – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough dumplings.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste the broth before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Let It Rest – Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking for better flavors to meld together.
• Add Vegetables Last – If you prefer firmer vegetables, consider adding them later in the cooking process.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth – This prevents the dish from becoming too salty and allows you to control seasoning better.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Completing your meal with side dishes elevates the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair beautifully with your Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings.

1. Steamed Green Beans – Bright green beans lightly seasoned add crunch and color.
2. Buttered Corn – Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of the main dish perfectly.
3. Roasted Broccoli – Crispy roasted broccoli introduces an earthy flavor while being nutritious.
4. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are always a comforting choice alongside this dish.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the dumplings.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet, baked sweet potatoes offer a delightful contrast to savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold Mixing the Dough Too Much: Over-mixing the dumpling dough can make them tough. Mix just until combined for fluffy dumplings.
• Bold Not Using Enough Liquid: If you skimp on the chicken broth, your dish may turn out dry. Ensure you measure accurately for a rich, flavorful broth.
• Bold Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking the chicken for too long or too little can affect texture. Follow the timing closely for perfectly tender chicken.
• Bold Skipping the Vegetables: Neglecting to add vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Include them for added nutrition and taste.
• Bold Not Deglazing the Pot: Failing to deglaze after sautéing can cause burnt bits. Always scrape the bottom before pressure cooking to avoid this issue.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings so special?

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is special because it combines tender chicken with soft dumplings in a rich, savory broth, all cooked quickly using an Instant Pot.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

Yes, you can customize by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try incorporating spinach, corn, or different herbs for unique flavors!

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

How do I store leftover Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey or even lamb if you prefer different flavors.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!

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