Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings to Get Fit

Cooking healthy and delicious meals can be challenging, especially if you have a busy schedule. However, with the help of a slow cooker, you can easily prepare healthy and hearty meals without spending hours in the kitchen. In this article, we will guide you on how to make slow cooker chicken and dumplings, a satisfying and wholesome meal that can help you get fit.

Introduction

Chicken and dumplings are a classic comfort food that can be high in calories and unhealthy fats. However, with a few tweaks, you can make this dish healthy and still delicious. By using a slow cooker, you can also save time and energy.

Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Slow cooker chicken and dumplings can provide you with numerous health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why you should try this recipe:

• Rich in protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.
• Low in calories: By using lean chicken and reducing the amount of fat, you can enjoy this dish without worrying about excess calories.
• Nutritious: By using whole-grain flour and adding vegetables, you can boost the nutritional value of the dish.
• Easy to make: The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to save time and effort.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need for this recipe:

For the chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings:

• 1 cup whole-grain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup milk

Optional vegetables:

• 2 cups chopped vegetables of your choice (such as carrots, celery, and peas)

Instructions

Here is how to make slow cooker chicken and dumplings:

1. Place the chicken, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. When the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
4. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and parsley.
5. Add the milk and stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and add the optional vegetables.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the slow cooker, making sure they are evenly distributed.
8. Cover and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Here are some tips to make sure your slow cooker chicken and dumplings turn out perfect every time:

• Use lean chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a good choice, as they are low in fat and high in protein.
• Season well: Use plenty of herbs and spices to add flavor without adding excess salt or fat.
• Don’t overcook the dumplings: Make sure to check them frequently, as they can become mushy if overcooked.
• Add extra veggies: You can add any vegetables you like to this dish, such as carrots