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Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Delight

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, particularly when it’s prepared in the convenient, time-saving Instant Pot. This delightful dish, with its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, is the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or a cosy family meal. In this article, we’ll explore an easy recipe for Instant Pot chicken and dumplings, inspired by the flavours of the comforting classic.

Why Choose the Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has revolutionised home cooking, allowing busy individuals to whip up comforting meals in a fraction of the time. It combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and more, which means you can sauté, simmer, and steam your way to a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this easy Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 500ml chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (about 400g) of condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 packet of biscuit dough (or your favourite dumpling recipe)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Heat the olive oil and add the chopped onions. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, continuing to sauté for an additional 3 minutes. The fragrant aromas will fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Incorporate the Chicken and Spices

Once the vegetables are slightly softened, add the thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavours, then add the chicken pieces. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to lightly brown.

Step 3: Add the Liquid Base

Pour in the chicken broth and spoon in the condensed cream of chicken soup. Stir until everything is well combined, ensuring no lumps of soup remain. This creamy mixture will be the base for your chicken and dumplings.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure the steam release valve is set to "sealing". Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. While it cooks, you can prepare your biscuit dough or dumplings according to the package instructions or your preferred recipe.

Step 5: Release Pressure and Add Peas

When the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the steam release valve to "venting". Once the pressure has released, remove the lid and add the frozen peas, stirring them into the mixture.

Step 6: Add the Dumplings

Finally, drop spoonfuls of your biscuit dough directly onto the surface of the hot chicken and broth mixture (it’s okay if they don’t touch each other). Close the lid once more and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: The Final Touch

After the dumplings have cooked, perform another quick release. Gently remove the lid and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes. The dumplings will be fluffy and the chicken wonderfully tender.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle generous portions of chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of colour. A side of crusty bread can also complement this dish perfectly, perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy broth.

Enjoying Your Creation

This easy Instant Pot chicken and dumplings recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or green beans, or adjust the seasonings to your preference. Not only does this dish capture the essence of comfort food, but it also showcases the convenience of modern cooking techniques.

With this recipe in your culinary repertoire, turning a handful of simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal has never been easier. So gather your loved ones, and enjoy this delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to the table!