Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

There’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to make a busy day feel like a cozy Sunday at home. The tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and creamy broth create a meal that feels like a warm hug.

I first discovered this recipe on a rainy day when I wanted something hearty and easy to make without much effort. With the crockpot doing all the heavy lifting, this dish has quickly become a family favorite that even my pickiest eaters enjoy.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort meal. Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is not just delicious – it’s the ultimate combination of convenience and indulgence.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. No complicated steps, no constant stirring – just set it and forget it.

Secondly, this recipe is perfect for busy families. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or both, you’ll appreciate coming home to a fully cooked, hearty meal that everyone loves.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s budget-friendly. With a handful of pantry staples like chicken broth, canned biscuits, and frozen vegetables, you can feed your whole family without breaking the bank.

Finally, the taste is unbeatable. The juicy chicken, rich broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings are pure comfort in a bowl, making it ideal for chilly evenings or when you just need a little extra coziness in your life.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one is essential.

Chicken

• I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Both work beautifully, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender after slow cooking.

Cream of Chicken Soup

• This pantry staple creates the creamy base for the dish. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use a reduced-fat version or swap in cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor twist.

Chicken Broth

• Use a good-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade or low-sodium broth is a great choice to control the saltiness of the dish.

Frozen Vegetables

• A bag of mixed frozen vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrition to the dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggie blend, like peas, carrots, and green beans.

Biscuits

• For the dumplings, refrigerated biscuit dough is the ultimate shortcut. It puffs up beautifully in the crockpot, creating soft, fluffy dumplings without the hassle of making them from scratch.

Seasonings

• A blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme adds depth and flavor. Don’t skip the thyme – it gives the dish its signature comforting aroma.

No special equipment is required, just your trusty crockpot and a wooden spoon to stir everything together.

How To Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this cozy classic.

1. Prepare the Base

Start by placing your chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your crockpot. Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the top. Sprinkle in your seasonings – salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme – ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

2. Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred when it’s done.

3. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it into the creamy base.

4. Add Vegetables and Dumplings

Stir in the frozen vegetables, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Tear the biscuit dough into small pieces (about 1-2 inches) and drop them into the crockpot. Gently press them into the broth so they can cook evenly.

5. Finish Cooking

Replace the lid and cook on high for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the biscuits have puffed up and are fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the dumplings are cooked, your dish is ready to serve! Ladle the chicken, veggies, and dumplings into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezer

This dish can also be frozen. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Note that the dumplings may lose some of their fluffy texture after freezing, but the flavors will still be incredible.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of broth or water if the dish thickens too much during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Add Fresh Herbs

Swap dried thyme for fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.

Try a Different Protein

Use turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover ham for a new flavor profile.

Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.

Dairy-Free Option

Replace the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk or coconut cream in place of heavy cream.

Gluten-Free Dumplings

Use a gluten-free biscuit dough or make dumplings from scratch with gluten-free flour.

Experiment with these ideas, and you’ll have endless variations of this comforting classic to enjoy.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a meal – it’s a dish that brings people together, warms the soul, and fills the kitchen with incredible aromas. Whether you’re a crockpot pro or new to slow cooking, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite in your household.

Print