When the cool autumn breeze starts to sweep in, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of a warm, homemade meal waiting for you at the end of a busy day. That’s where my Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings come into play—an effortless, comforting dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace with each bite. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its rich, aromatic flavors, but in the simplicity it brings to your kitchen. As the slow cooker works its magic, you can unwind, knowing a hearty dinner filled with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and vibrant vegetables is being prepared just for you.
This dish is a perfect solution for those who feel weary of fast food or the same repetitive meals. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with family or an event where you want to impress guests, this chicken and dumplings recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. So gather your ingredients, let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warmth that feels like home.
Why will you love this chicken and dumplings?
Comforting warmth: There’s nothing more satisfying than a bowl of chicken and dumplings on a chill day, offering a hug in a dish.
Effortless preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it handle the work, making it ideal for busy lives.
Endless versatility: Feel free to swap ingredients; try using turkey or even tofu, and mix in seasonal veggies for a personal touch.
Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the fluffy dumplings and savory broth, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
Meal prep made easy: Perfect for leftovers, this dish keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it over a few days or reheat for a quick, satisfying meal.
Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
• Chicken Thighs – A juicy protein that keeps the dish moist; use boneless for easier shredding.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to your personal preference.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses the broth with aromatic depth; be sure to remove it before serving.
For the Aromatics
• Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme – Fresh herbs elevate the dish with vibrant flavors; dried versions can work in a pinch.
• Garlic Powder – Provides a savory kick that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Carrot, Celery, Onion – Classic aromatic vegetables for a balanced flavor profile; cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
For the Broth
• Chicken Broth – The flavorful base of your soup; opt for high-quality options to enhance taste.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds rich creaminess that makes this chicken and dumplings dish even more comforting; lower-fat varieties are also available.
For the Dumplings
• Biscuit Dough – Key to those fluffy dumplings, and refrigerated options like Pillsbury Grands work perfectly.
• Frozen Peas – Adds a pop of color and sweetness; make sure to thaw them before incorporating.
Enjoy creating this soothing dish that promises to warm you from the inside out!
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings
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Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, ensuring they’re evenly coated for maximum flavor. Place them in your slow cooker, waiting patiently for the magic to happen.
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Combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder in the crockpot. Mix well to create a deliciously aromatic broth that will envelop your chicken.
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Add the diced carrot, celery, and onion to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Prepare the biscuit dough by cutting it into quarters and rolling them into marble-sized balls. These little gems will transform into fluffy dumplings as they cook!
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Remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot, shred it using forks, and return it to the pot with thawed peas. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf for a clean dining experience.
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Incorporate the biscuit balls into the simmering broth, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Cover and let them cook on high for 1 to 2 hours, until they become fluffy and slightly golden.
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Rest the dish for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color—and flavor!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra herbs for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These chicken and dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken and vegetable base up to 24 hours in advance by combining the diced carrots, celery, onion, and seasoned chicken thighs in your slow cooker. Store this mixture in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s covered well to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, herbs, and garlic powder, then follow the cooking instructions as normal. The dumplings can also be made ahead; just store the rolled biscuit balls in an airtight container in the fridge, and add them during the last 1 to 2 hours of cooking. This way, you can enjoy all the comforting flavors of homemade chicken and dumplings without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain flavor, ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dumplings separately from the broth for up to 3 months. This prevents the dumplings from becoming gummy.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth as needed to restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for best results.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Just remember, the dumplings will absorb broth, so add a little liquid when reheating to keep it cozy and soupy!
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings?
When serving up a bowl of warmth and comfort, it’s essential to create a meal experience that invites everyone to the table.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances the creamy richness of the chicken and dumplings, adding a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping into the savory broth, making each bite exciting and indulgent.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of seasonal veggies, providing a delicious contrast to the hearty stew while adding extra nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add a pop of color and nutritional goodness, with a texture that complements the softness of the dumplings nicely.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes enhance the comfort food vibe, perfect for spooning alongside the saucy chicken for an extra satisfying bite.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, serve a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the sweetness will round out the meal perfectly!
Expert Tips for Chicken and Dumplings
- Perfect Preparation: Use boneless chicken thighs for extra moisture, but if using breasts, check doneness to prevent drying out your chicken and dumplings.
- Peeking Problems: Resist the urge to lift the lid too often; each peek lets out steam that keeps the broth flavorful and rich.
- Dumpling Timing: Add biscuit dough only after the chicken is fully cooked to avoid gummy dumplings that lack the desired fluffiness.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into a dumpling; if it comes out clean, they are perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
- Storage Solutions: Leftovers can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; be mindful they may thicken, so rehydrate with a splash of broth when reheating.
Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Embrace the joy of customizing this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit for a plant-based delight. This twist allows for the same comforting experience without the meat.
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Herb-Heavy: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a fragrant twist. These additions can elevate the flavors, bringing a new layer of freshness to your cozy dish.
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Rich & Savory: Swap out cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or make your own with sautéed mushrooms and heavy cream. The umami boost will deepen the dish’s flavor profile.
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Veggie Variety: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like squash, green beans, or sweet corn. This colorful mix adds both nutrition and a delightful crunch.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to elevate the heat level. Each spoonful will tantalize your taste buds with a comforting warmth.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough or homemade dumpling recipes made from almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for a safe alternative.
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Broth Boost: For more depth, include a splash of white wine or sherry in your broth. This introduces a layer of richness that plays beautifully with the creaminess.
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Coconut Twist: For a tropical flair, use coconut milk instead of cream of chicken soup and add fresh lime juice. This will lend a light, refreshing touch to the dish.
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the juiciest flavors, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They keep the dish moist and tender as they cook. If you prefer chicken breasts, be sure to monitor the cooking time to prevent them from drying out!
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken and dumplings should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool fully before sealing to maintain quality and flavor. When ready to enjoy, a splash of broth can help restore the creamy texture when reheating.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! I recommend freezing the broth and dumplings separately to avoid any gummy texture in the dumplings when thawed. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let the broth thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth as needed.
What should I do if my dumplings are gummy?
Oh no! If your dumplings turn out gummy, it might be due to adding them too early. Always wait until the chicken is fully cooked before incorporating the dumpling dough. If they still don’t turn out as expected, next time try rolling the dough slightly less to create a fluffier texture. A toothpick test can help too; if it comes out clean, they’re done!
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Very much so! Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost. Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth, and for the creamy element, homemade cashew cream or coconut cream can add richness while fitting into a vegan diet. Adding seasonal vegetables will also enhance the flavor and nutrition!
Cozy Chicken and Dumplings: Effortless Comfort Food Bliss
Equipment
- - Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs A juicy protein that keeps the dish moist.
- 1 tsp salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
- 1 tsp black pepper Essential for enhancing flavor.
- 1 leaf bay leaf Infuses the broth with aromatic depth.
For the Aromatics
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley Elevates the dish with vibrant flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary Elevates the dish with vibrant flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme Elevates the dish with vibrant flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Provides a savory kick.
- 1 cup diced carrot Classic aromatic vegetable.
- 1 cup diced celery Classic aromatic vegetable.
- 1 cup diced onion Classic aromatic vegetable.
For the Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth The flavorful base of your soup.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Adds rich creaminess.
For the Dumplings
- 1 can biscuit dough Key to fluffy dumplings.
- 1 cup frozen peas Adds color and sweetness.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, ensuring they're evenly coated for maximum flavor. Place them in your slow cooker.
- Combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder in the crockpot. Mix well.
- Add the diced carrot, celery, and onion to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare the biscuit dough by cutting it into quarters and rolling them into marble-sized balls.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot, shred it using forks, and return it to the pot with thawed peas.
- Incorporate the biscuit balls into the simmering broth. Cover and let them cook on high for 1 to 2 hours.
- Rest the dish for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.