Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 41 min
Total time: 56 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter; ¾ cup milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs; 1 small yellow onion; 3 ribs celery; 3 medium carrots; 2 cloves garlic; 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; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Posted on December 9, 2025

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Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, flavorful broth. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or when you need a quick meal that satisfies. With minimal prep and an easy cooking process, you’ll find this dish to be a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cooking Time: With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a delicious meal in just about an hour.
Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of herbs and fresh ingredients creates a warm and inviting flavor.
Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash after your meal.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings, gather the necessary tools that will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Instant Pot
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

Instant Pot: This tool not only speeds up cooking but also infuses flavors quickly, making it perfect for this recipe.
Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for mixing the dumpling dough without spills.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements ensure perfect results every time.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and mix until crumbly. Stir in milk until just combined; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and unsalted butter. Once melted, add chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add bone-in chicken thighs to the pot along with chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Seal the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

Step 4: Release Pressure

After cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. Open the lid carefully.

Step 5: Thicken Broth

Remove chicken thighs from the pot. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the broth in the pot while on sauté mode until thickened.

Step 6: Add Peas and Dumplings

Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the pot along with frozen peas. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough over the top of the mixture.

Step 7: Final Cook

Close the lid again and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes. Afterward, allow for natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before opening.

Step 8: Serve

Stir gently to incorporate everything together before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is simple and delightful. This comforting dish can be enjoyed on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance the experience and make it even more satisfying.

Add Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Thyme Sprigs: A few thyme sprigs can elevate the dish with an aromatic touch.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Sourdough Bread: A slice of warm sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can complement the flavors nicely while adding a comforting element.

Serve with Salad

Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and creamy taste that pairs well.

Garnish with Cheese

Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth to each bowl.
Shredded Cheddar: Melting some shredded cheddar on top can introduce a deliciously gooey texture.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Perfecting your Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings can elevate this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: They provide richer flavor and tenderness compared to boneless cuts.
Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the chicken before pressure cooking enhances flavor through caramelization.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
Check Dumpling Consistency: The dumpling batter should be thick but not dry; adjust milk if needed.
Quick Release Carefully: When releasing pressure, do so carefully to avoid splattering hot broth.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

To round out your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that complement Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings perfectly.

Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a bright, fresh crunch that contrasts well with the dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor that enhances the overall meal.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit, offering comfort alongside your chicken and dumplings.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the main dish.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings summer vibes and pairs wonderfully with hearty flavors.
Mixed Vegetables Stir-Fry: A colorful stir-fry provides vibrant nutrition and complements the chicken’s flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Bold ingredient substitution: Using the wrong type of chicken can affect flavor and texture. Always opt for bone-in chicken thighs for the best results.
Bold overmixing dough: When making dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
Bold skipping sautéing: Not sautéing the vegetables before cooking can lead to a lack of flavor. Take the time to sauté for a rich base.
Bold ignoring liquid measurements: Too much or too little broth can alter cooking times and consistency. Measure carefully for perfect results.
Bold rushing cooking time: Cooking for less time than recommended can leave chicken undercooked and dumplings dense. Follow timing closely for safety and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings cooked together in a savory broth.

How do I customize Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

You can add different vegetables like peas or green beans, or change herbs to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with spices as well!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as breasts cook faster than thighs.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

The total time is about 56 minutes, including preparation, cooking, and natural pressure release.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is not only delicious but also versatile. This comforting meal can be customized with various vegetables or spices according to your preference. We encourage you to try this recipe for an easy weeknight dinner that your family will love!