Craving something comforting yet effortlessly delicious? Treat yourself to this Instant Pot Chicken and dumplings dish that brings together the rich flavor profiles of a classic comfort meal with the modern convenience of pressure cooking. Ready in just under an hour, this recipe will become your new go-to weekday dinner for the entire family.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of my grandmother’s cooking. Every Sunday, she would prepare a large pot of chicken and dumplings, and it would beckon the whole family to the table. The aroma of simmering chicken filled every corner of the house. Adapting this treasured recipe for the Instant Pot has allowed me to keep her memory alive while saving time for my own busy household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This is not just any chicken and dumplings recipe. The Instant Pot ensures that your chicken is perfectly tender while enhancing the subtle flavors of herbs and vegetables. This method is energy-efficient and super convenient, cutting down on the time spent standing over a stove. You’ll appreciate how the fluffy dumplings soak up the savory broth, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need Chicken Thighs, which are more flavorful and tender than chicken breasts. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley lend a vibrant note to the broth. The secret to perfect dumplings is all-purpose flour and baking powder, which yield a light and fluffy texture. If you can’t find buttermilk, regular milk with a splash of vinegar will work similarly. Fresh vegetables such as carrots and celery are essential for an aromatic broth.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by setting the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, and brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2

Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot, sautéing until softened. This should take approximately 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and salt for an additional minute.

Step 3

Pour in chicken broth, then return the chicken to the pot. Seal the Instant Pot, set to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.

Step 4

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in buttermilk to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the pot.

Step 5

Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode again, cooking the dumplings for about 5-7 minutes. Stir gently and serve the dish hot, garnished with parsley.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or use the microwave. For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and consuming.

Variations & Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk in place of buttermilk for the dumplings. You can also experiment by adding vegetables such as peas or mushrooms to diversify flavors. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is ideal for a cozy dinner, but it’s also perfect for a comforting lunch served with a green salad. Pair it with a glass of white wine to elevate the meal for special occasions. Whether it’s a family gathering or quiet evening, this dish serves well on any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. However, you’ll need to increase the pressure cooking time by an additional 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

What can I substitute for chicken thighs? While chicken thighs are recommended for their flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts can be used as a leaner option. Keep an eye on the cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster.

How can I make the dish spicier? For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño while sautéing the vegetables. This will increase the heat without overpowering the classic flavors of the dish.