Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

There's nothing quite like the cozy aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings filling your home. This hearty dish combines tender, shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth for a meal that warms the soul.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly fall evening when I wanted something comforting but didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. It quickly became a family favorite, perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into why this dish is about to become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Get ready to experience comfort food at its best! Here’s why this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe will win you over.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. All the ingredients go straight into the slow cooker, and you only need to spend a few minutes at the end to add the dumplings. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal!

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy dumplings are universally loved, making it perfect for picky eaters and big family dinners alike.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients like chicken thighs and canned biscuits, you can feed a family of four without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s customizable. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it versatile enough for everyone.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to create that perfect blend of creamy, savory, and hearty.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for this recipe. They’re more flavorful and stay tender throughout the long cooking process. You can also use chicken breasts if preferred.
• Chicken broth: The base of the soup, this provides depth and richness. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness, especially if you’re adding other salty ingredients.
• Vegetables: Traditional choices like carrots, celery, and onions add sweetness and texture. You can also toss in peas or corn during the last hour for added color and flavor.
• Condensed cream soup: A can of cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup adds that classic creamy texture and flavor. If you prefer a homemade option, a quick roux with milk and broth works beautifully.
• Canned biscuits: These are the shortcut dumplings that make this recipe a breeze. Cut them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly and puff up nicely.
• Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, thyme, and parsley gives the dish its warm, herbaceous undertones. Adjust to taste or add your favorite spices for a personal touch.

No special equipment is needed—just your trusty crockpot and a spoon to stir everything together!

How to Make This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Creating this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is as easy as 1-2-3! Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by layering the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery on top.

Pour in the chicken broth and dollop the cream soup evenly over the vegetables. This will slowly melt into the broth, creating a rich and creamy base.

Step 2: Cook the Base

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become fork-tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Dumplings

Open your can of biscuits and cut each one into four pieces. Drop the biscuit pieces into the slow cooker, spacing them out to ensure they don’t stick together. Press them gently into the broth.

Cook on high for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the dumplings are fully cooked and puffed up. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re no longer doughy in the center.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dumplings are done, give the stew a good stir. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm. Total time? About 7-8 hours, but only 15 minutes of hands-on work!

Storage Options

This dish is perfect for leftovers! Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
• Freezer: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings can be frozen, but the dumplings may lose some of their fluffiness. For best results, freeze the base without the dumplings and add fresh ones when reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tips: Always reheat slowly to avoid overcooking the dumplings. A saucepan on low heat works best for even warming.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to customize it to suit your needs.

• Protein Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version or swap chicken for turkey to use up leftovers from the holidays.
• Dumpling Alternatives: Try homemade dumplings, drop biscuits, or even pre-made gnocchi for a unique twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth, chickpeas, or diced potatoes for a hearty meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the dumplings with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles added in the last hour of cooking.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients—the possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason why Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved classic. It’s easy, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will always hit the spot. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!

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