When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm and hearty appeal of chicken and dumplings. This classic meal has been a staple in American households for generations, known for its soothing flavors and satisfying textures. With the rise of busy lifestyles, the need for convenient cooking methods has led many to discover the simplicity and ease of utilizing a crockpot. Imagine coming home to a rich, aromatic dish that has been simmering all day, ready to be served with minimal effort — that’s the magic of crockpot chicken and dumplings.

This beloved dish not only delivers convenience but also promises a delightful dining experience, making it a favorite for families, gatherings, and weeknight dinners alike. The slow cooker transforms standard ingredients into a dish that boasts tender chicken and fluffy dumplings enveloped in a savory broth. Plus, the time-saving aspect is significant. Just set your crockpot in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, that classic comfort meal is ready to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, using a crockpot makes whipping up chicken and dumplings a breeze.

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a classic meal at home, crockpot chicken and dumplings might just be the answer. Embrace the ease and warmth of this dish, and let it fill your home with enticing aromas and your family’s hearts with joy.

What is Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

Crockpot chicken and dumplings is a beloved comfort food that combines tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked together in a slow cooker. This dish is a variation of traditional chicken and dumplings, which has roots in various cuisines around the world. Originating as a way to utilize leftover meats and stretch ingredients, it has become a classic staple in homes across America.

One of the primary benefits of making chicken and dumplings in a crockpot is the convenience it offers. By allowing the ingredients to cook slowly over several hours, the crockpot ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender, while the flavors meld together beautifully. The result is a rich and hearty dish that captures the essence of homemade comfort food with minimal effort.

There are also many variations of chicken and dumplings, reflecting regional tastes and preferences. Southern-style versions often feature a creamy base, with the addition of cream of chicken soup or milk to enhance the richness. Others may opt for a broth-based approach, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables to shine through. Regardless of the variation, crockpot chicken and dumplings remains a versatile dish perfect for any occasion.

Why You Should Make it in a Slow Cooker

Choosing to make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker offers several distinct advantages, making it an ideal option for today’s busy lifestyles. Let’s explore the key reasons why this cooking method is so beneficial.

A. Flavor Development

One of the most significant advantages of using a crockpot is the way long cooking times enhance flavors. As the ingredients simmer together for hours, the natural juices and seasonings blend, resulting in a deep, rich flavor profile that is often unmatched by traditional cooking methods. The gentle heat of the crockpot ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender, absorbing the broth’s flavors while releasing its own juices.

B. Convenience

The “set it and forget it” approach of a slow cooker is perfect for those with busy schedules. Simply add your ingredients in the morning, set the timer, and return home to a delicious meal without any fuss. This cooking method allows for effortless meal prep, enabling you to spend more time enjoying your evening instead of slaving away in the kitchen. Additionally, leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for future meals, making it a practical choice.

C. Nutritional Considerations

Another reason to consider crockpot chicken and dumplings is the opportunity to prioritize nutrition. Using fresh, wholesome ingredients allows you to control what goes into your meal. Customizing your dish for dietary needs is easily achievable—substituting gluten-free ingredients, using low-sodium broth, or adding extra vegetables for added nutrients can all be done without sacrificing flavor. This means that you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal while still being conscious of your health.

Essential Ingredients

To create a delicious crockpot chicken and dumplings, you’ll need a selection of foundational ingredients that work together to produce the rich and comforting flavors this dish is known for. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are perfect for this recipe. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay moist during the slow cooking process.
Broth: Chicken broth is essential for the base of your dish. You can use store-bought or homemade for a more personalized taste.
Vegetables: Classic choices include celery, carrots, and onions. These add depth and flavor while also providing essential nutrients.
Dumpling Components: Basic dumplings are made with flour, baking powder, milk, and butter. You can adjust these ratios for desired texture and flavor.
Seasoning: A blend of herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder, enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste!

Detailed Recipe for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

A. Ingredients List

Here are the exact ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting meal:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, celery)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups dumpling mixture (made from 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 cup milk, and 1/4 cup melted butter)

B. Directions

Prepare your crockpot by lightly greasing the insert to prevent sticking.
Place the chicken into the crockpot, followed by the chicken broth and mixed vegetables.
Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
Set your crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumpling mix. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, milk, and melted butter, mixing until just combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the chicken and broth mixture in the crockpot, ensuring they are spaced apart for optimal cooking.
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to allow the dumplings to steam and fluff up.
Once done, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a fresh finish.

C. Advice for Perfect Results

To ensure your crockpot chicken and dumplings turn out perfectly:

Use lean cuts of chicken for less greasiness.
Monitor the dumpling cooking time carefully; overcooking can lead to dense dumplings.
Always taste before serving to adjust seasonings for your preference.

Variations of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

A. Southern Style vs. Creamy Variations

Southern-style chicken and dumplings often include a creamy base by incorporating cream of chicken soup. This adds a rich texture that many people adore. The choice between a broth-based and creamy approach can significantly alter the flavor and feel of your dish, providing options for everyone’s palate.

B. Healthy Alternatives

For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour for your dumplings and low-sodium broth to keep your meal heart-friendly. Increasing vegetable content not only adds flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile of the dish.

C. Customizable Add-ins

Feel free to experiment with various spices and herbs to elevate your dish. Using thyme or sage can bring a distinct flavor that enhances the overall experience. Adding different vegetables, such as green beans or potatoes, or even experimenting with proteins like turkey can personalize your crockpot chicken and dumplings.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

To ensure your leftover chicken and dumplings stay fresh and delicious:

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
When reheating, do so slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to maintain moisture and ensure the dumplings remain fluffy.

FAQs About Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

A. How long can I cook chicken and dumplings in a crockpot?

Typically, chicken and dumplings can be cooked in a crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Avoid cooking longer than these times to prevent the chicken from becoming dry.

B. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to cook it on high for 4-6 hours to ensure that it cooks thoroughly and remains tender.

C. What if my dumplings are dense?

Dense dumplings could be a result of over-mixing or too much flour. To alleviate this, mix just until combined and adjust the flour in future recipes based on the consistency of the dough.

D. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring proper measurements to achieve the right texture for your dumplings.

E. How do I make the broth thicker?

For a thicker broth, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) about 30 minutes before serving, or mash some of the vegetables to create a more cohesive texture.

crockpot chicken and dumplings

This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe delivers a comforting and hearty meal with minimal effort. Tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft dumplings come together beautifully in your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Total Time 8 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

1 Crockpot
1 Cutting board
1 Mixing bowl
1 Measuring cups
1 Measuring spoons

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
2 cups refrigerated biscuit dough or homemade if preferred
1 tablespoon fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the chicken broth, chopped carrots, celery, and onion over the chicken.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Add the cream of chicken soup on top but do not stir it in.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Open the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Stir them into the crockpot, making sure they are coated with the broth.
Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high until the dumplings are cooked through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot.
You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or add in your favorite vegetables.
Feel free to adjust the thickness of the broth; if you prefer it thicker, you can add a cornstarch slurry in the last hour of cooking.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot.

You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or add in your favorite vegetables.

Feel free to adjust the thickness of the broth; if you prefer it thicker, you can add a cornstarch slurry in the last hour of cooking.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for Comforting Meals

What is Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?