When chilly evenings settle in, there’s nothing I crave more than the heartwarming embrace of a bowl filled with Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. The delightful aromas of herbs mingling with tender chicken waft through the air, promising comfort and satisfaction. This recipe is one I often turn to after a busy day, providing not just nourishment but also a blanket of warmth that seems to hug you from the inside out.
What I love most about this dish is its effortless preparation. With just a few simple ingredients, I can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic—melding together flavorful notes while I go about my day. Imagine arriving home to a kitchen that smells like a cozy kitchen café, with a bubbling pot waiting to be ladled into hearty bowls.
Whether you’re looking to impress family or simply want to indulge in a comforting meal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and taste. Get ready to embrace nostalgia and warmth in each bite!
Why is Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings a Must-Try?
Comforting and hearty, this dish is the epitome of cozy home cooking. Effortless preparation means you can enjoy its delightful taste while spending less time in the kitchen. Versatile ingredient options allow you to customize based on what you have on hand. Slow cooking melds flavors beautifully, offering a rich, aromatic experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it promises a satisfying meal that everyone will love! If you’re looking for an easy and rewarding cooking experience, this recipe delivers comfort with every spoonful.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Provides moisture and tenderness during cooking; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option, but be cautious as they may dry out.
For the Seasoning
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Bay Leaf – Adds depth of flavor; be sure to remove it before serving.
• Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme – Fresh or dried herbs enhance flavor; feel free to adjust based on what you have available.
• Garlic Powder – Offers an aromatic base; alternatively, use fresh minced garlic (1 clove = 1/4 tsp of garlic powder).
For the Broth and Vegetables
• Chicken Broth – Creates a rich base; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Carrot, Celery, Onion – Essential veggies that provide texture and flavor; frozen mixed veggies can work in a pinch.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Brings creaminess; use homemade versions or try cream of mushroom soup as a variation.
• Peas – Adds sweetness and color; both fresh or frozen are great choices.
For the Dumplings
• Biscuit Dough – Forms the dumplings; you can use refrigerated dough like Pillsbury Grands! or homemade for a fresher taste.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Enhances visual appeal while adding a bright note of flavor.
How to Make Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
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Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. This basic seasoning step is crucial for flavor; don’t skip it!
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Combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, herbs, and garlic powder in the crockpot. Stir well to mix all the ingredients beautifully for a rich base.
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Add the seasoned chicken thighs along with diced carrots, celery, and onion to the crockpot. Stir gently to coat everything, then cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should reach 165°F by the end.
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Prepare the biscuit dough by cutting each biscuit into quarters and rolling them into marble-sized balls. This will form the fluffy dumplings that float in your broth!
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Shred the chicken and return it to the pot after it’s cooked. Add the peas, and don’t forget to remove the bay leaf. This adds a pop of sweetness and color!
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Carefully place the biscuit balls into the simmering broth. Cover and cook on high for 1 to 2 hours until the dumplings are cooked through and slightly golden.
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Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch, and ladle the warm mix into bowls.
Optional: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make your dish uniquely yours.
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Chicken Choices: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or diced cooked turkey for variety. Each option offers a different level of moisture and flavor depth.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version that’s equally heartwarming and satisfying.
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Veggie Boost: Add extra vegetables like sweet potatoes or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition. They’ll absorb the flavors beautifully!
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Homemade Dumplings: Ditch the biscuit dough and whip up your own dumplings with flour, baking powder, and milk for a more personalized touch.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or tarragon instead of traditional thyme and rosemary. This adds a fresh twist to the overall flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for a gentle heat that pairs remarkably with the creaminess of the broth.
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Nutty Creaminess: Stir in a tablespoon of almond butter or tahini at the end for a unique, rich nuttiness that complements the dish beautifully.
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Cheesy Variation: For a different creamy experience, mix in some grated cheese—like cheddar or Parmesan—just before serving for a cheesy delight!
What to Serve with Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
A warm, cozy meal deserves the perfect accompaniment to round it out and satisfy those comforting cravings.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up that delicious, creamy broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will brighten the dish with freshness. It’s a light contrast to the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender, bright green broccoli offers a delightful crunch and balances the meal with a dose of nutrients and vibrant color.
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Cornbread: For those who love a hearty side, cornbread pairs wonderfully with the dish’s creamy texture, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
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Buttered Noodles: A delicate, buttery noodle dish serves as a delicious base, absorbing the flavors of the chicken and broth beautifully while adding a unique texture.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your comforting meal with a warm apple crisp. Its sweet, cinnamon-scented filling and crunchy topping create a delightful contrast to the savory main course!
Each of these sides beautifully enhances the experience of enjoying Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, creating a fulfilling meal that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction.
How to Store and Freeze Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be aware that the dumplings may absorb some liquid as they sit.
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Freezer: You can freeze the Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for longer storage, up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth to maintain creamy consistency as needed.
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Keep in Mind: When reheating, the dumplings may become slightly denser, but they’ll still be delicious and comforting in every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-mix the broth base with the cream of chicken soup and herbs a day before cooking. Just remember to keep the biscuit dough separate and add it just before serving to ensure it remains fluffy and tender. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine everything in the slow cooker and cook as directed—it’s a stress-free way to have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you at the end of a long day!
Expert Tips for Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
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Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid opening the slow cooker lid during cooking; this helps maintain the essential heat for perfectly fluffy dumplings.
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Layer for Flavor: Always season the chicken and layer ingredients properly for enhanced flavor. Make sure the seasoned chicken is on the bottom for optimal results.
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Space for Dumplings: Ensure there’s enough space between your dumplings in the broth; overcrowding can lead to dense, gummy texture instead of fluffy goodness.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking times. Chicken should always reach 165°F, and dumplings should cook for 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size.
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Moisture Absorption: If your dumplings appear too doughy, place a kitchen towel under the lid during the last cooking phase to absorb excess moisture while still allowing steam to circulate.
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Creative Substitutions: Don’t shy away from experimenting with different chicken types or vegetables based on what you have at home; the warmth of this dish allows flexibility while maintaining its comforting essence.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using chicken thighs as they provide moisture and tenderness during cooking. If you prefer chicken breasts, be cautious, as they may dry out more easily in the slow cooker. Look for thighs with a good amount of fat for that rich flavor.
How should I store leftovers of my Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just remember, the dumplings will absorb some of the liquid as they sit, so you may want to add a splash of broth when reheating to restore that creamy texture!
Can I freeze Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze this comforting dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat it on the stovetop, stirring in extra broth as needed.
What if my dumplings turn out gummy?
Very! If your dumplings appear gummy, it could be due to overcrowding in the pot or cooking them for too long. To prevent this, ensure there is adequate space between the dumplings while cooking. If you notice they’re too dense, you can place a kitchen towel under the lid during the last cooking phase to absorb excess moisture and help them rise properly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free biscuit dough or make homemade dumplings with alternative flours. If someone has allergies, such as to chicken or specific vegetables, you can substitute with turkey or a mix of your favorite veggies to accommodate their needs.
How long do I need to cook the chicken to ensure it’s done?
To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, plan on cooking your chicken on high for 3 to 4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check this—it’s a reliable method to guarantee your chicken is both cooked through and tender!
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
Equipment
- crockpot
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds Chicken Thighs substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Salt adjust according to taste
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust according to taste
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf remove before serving
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley or dried
- 1 teaspoon Rosemary or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Thyme or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or 1 clove fresh minced garlic
For the Broth and Vegetables
- 4 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian
- 2 cups Carrots diced
- 2 stalks Celery diced
- 1 medium Onion diced
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup Peas fresh or frozen
For the Dumplings
- 1 can Biscuit Dough like Pillsbury Grands!
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley for garnish
Instructions
Steps to Prepare
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
- Combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, herbs, and garlic powder in the crockpot. Stir well to mix.
- Add the seasoned chicken thighs along with diced carrots, celery, and onion. Stir gently to coat everything, then cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Prepare the biscuit dough by cutting each biscuit into quarters and rolling them into marble-sized balls.
- Shred the chicken and return it to the pot after it's cooked. Add the peas, and remove the bay leaf.
- Carefully place the biscuit balls into the simmering broth. Cover and cook on high for 1 to 2 hours.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley.