Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to brighten a chilly day or soothe a busy weeknight. The tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and creamy, flavorful broth create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. It’s a lifesaver when I’m juggling work, errands, and family dinners because the slow cooker does most of the work. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be your go-to comfort meal too.

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

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Get ready to discover your new favorite slow-cooker recipe. This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the perfect combination of ease and flavor, making it a must-try for any home cook.

First, it’s ridiculously simple to make. With just 10 minutes of prep, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and walk away, knowing dinner will be ready when you need it. No standing over a stove, no complicated steps—just set it and forget it!

Second, the ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find. Using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a picky toddler or a table of hungry guests, everyone will be asking for seconds.

And let’s not forget the rich, creamy broth and those tender dumplings. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory, satisfying goodness. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each plays a key role in creating the perfect bowl of chicken and dumplings.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They cook to perfection in the crockpot, becoming tender enough to shred effortlessly. Chicken thighs can also be used if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Broth: Use a good-quality chicken broth for the base. It sets the stage for the creamy, savory flavor that defines this dish.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple thickens the broth and adds a velvety texture. You can substitute it with a homemade roux or cream sauce if you prefer to skip the canned version.
• Vegetables: Classic choices like carrots, celery, and onions not only add flavor but also a touch of color and nutrition. Chop them finely so they meld seamlessly into the dish.
• Dumplings: Refrigerated biscuit dough works beautifully here. It puffs up as it cooks, creating soft, pillowy dumplings. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade dumpling dough is a wonderful upgrade.

You’ll also need basic seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to round out the flavor. A good crockpot is essential for this recipe—you’ll want one that’s at least 6 quarts in size.

How To Make This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Creating this dish is as simple as layering ingredients and letting the crockpot do the work. Here’s how to bring it all together.

1. Prep the ingredients: Start by chopping your vegetables—dice the carrots, celery, and onion into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly in the crockpot.
2. Layer in the crockpot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot, then scatter the chopped vegetables on top. Sprinkle with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper for an aromatic base.
3. Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, stirring gently to combine. The soup will thicken as it cooks, creating a creamy broth.
4. Cook low and slow: Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and easy to shred.
5. Add the dumplings: About 1 hour before the cooking time is up, remove the chicken breasts, shred them, and return them to the crockpot. Then, cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into small pieces and drop them into the broth. Stir gently to coat.
6. Finish cooking: Continue cooking on high for another hour, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

When it’s ready, your kitchen will be filled with the most irresistible aroma. Serve hot and enjoy every spoonful!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to enjoy later.

• Refrigeration: Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before transferring to the container.
• Freezing: While the broth and chicken freeze well, the dumplings may become soggy when reheated. If you plan to freeze, consider freezing just the broth and chicken mixture, then adding fresh dumplings when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the broth has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

• Protein swaps: Try substituting the chicken with turkey for a post-Thanksgiving twist, or use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with canned jackfruit or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a little heat.
• Herb upgrades: Fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or sage can add an extra layer of flavor. Stir them in just before serving for the best results.
• Homemade dumplings: If you prefer not to use biscuit dough, make a simple dumpling dough from scratch using flour, baking powder, milk, and butter.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. With its forgiving nature, the possibilities are endless!

There you have it—an easy, delicious recipe for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it up on a lazy Sunday or a hectic weeknight, this dish always hits the spot. Try it today and taste the magic for yourself!

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