As I craved a meal that wrapped me in warmth like a favorite blanket, my thoughts drifted to my go-to comfort: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. This slow-cooked marvel not only fills the kitchen with a heavenly aroma but also transforms mere ingredients into a heartwarming feast. With its tender pieces of chicken nestled in creamy broth and topped with fluffy biscuit-style dumplings, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. And the best part? You can set it up in the morning and let it work its magic while you tackle your day! It’s a breeze to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy dinners at home. Ready to experience this effortless comfort? Let’s get cooking!

Why are Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings irresistible?

Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic—no need for constant attention!

Creamy Comfort: The rich, creamy broth wraps around tender chicken, creating a hearty hug in every bite.

Fluffy Dumplings: Those biscuit-style dumplings soak up all the delicious flavors, making each mouthful an absolute delight.

Customizable: Easily adapt this dish to your taste by swapping in your favorite veggies or adding seasonings from recipes like Honey Garlic Chicken.

Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit for both kids and adults, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

• Prepare for a cozy culinary adventure!

For the Chicken Mixture

Chicken breasts or thighs – Provides a succulent protein base; thighs are more flavorful.
Cream of chicken soup – Adds creaminess and depth to the broth; swap with cream of mushroom for variety.
Cream of celery soup – Optional for extra flavor; enhances the creaminess of the broth.
Onion, diced – Forms a flavorful aromatic base; try using sweet onions for a milder taste.
Garlic, minced – Boosts the overall flavor; sauté for richer undertones if you prefer.
Carrots, sliced – Introduces sweetness and a lovely crunch; you can also use baby carrots for convenience.
Frozen peas – Adds a pop of color and sweetness; stir in nearing the end for the best texture.
Low-sodium chicken broth – Essential for cooking and creating a flavorful soup base.
Dried thyme – Imparts a comforting earthy flavor; feel free to use fresh if you have it on hand.
Black pepper and salt – Key seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences.
Poultry seasoning – Optional, adds an aromatic herbal touch; substitute with your preferred herb mix.

For the Dumplings

Refrigerated biscuit dough – Forms fluffy dumplings; chop into bite-sized pieces before mixing in.
Fresh parsley – For garnish; adds a refreshing pop of color and freshness to the dish.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a wonderful concoction of flavors and textures in your kitchen that warms the heart. Now, let’s dive into the effortless cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare Chicken for Cooking
Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Ensure the pieces are evenly distributed for uniform cooking. This is the base for your delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, so don’t skimp on quality—fresh chicken will yield the best results.

Step 2: Add Creamy Broth Ingredients
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth followed by the cream of chicken soup, and mix in the optional cream of celery soup if desired. Gently stir these ingredients together to combine the flavors, creating a rich and creamy base for your dish. The broth should cover the chicken completely, providing moisture as it cooks.

Step 3: Layer Aromatics and Seasonings
Scatter the diced onions, sliced carrots, and minced garlic over the broth mixture without stirring again. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional poultry seasoning on top. This layering method allows the aromatics to infuse into the dish while cooking, enhancing the flavor of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and the flavors will meld beautifully. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking as this releases steam and affects the cooking process.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the cooker. Mixing it back into the creamy broth will create a luscious texture throughout the dish, ensuring every bite of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Prepare and Add Dumplings
Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into 1-inch pieces, then distribute them evenly over the surface of the chicken and broth mixture. Gently press down on the dough to submerge it partially in the broth, allowing the dumplings to soak in the delicious flavors as they cook.

Step 7: Cook Dumplings Thoroughly
Cover the slow cooker again and switch it to high, allowing the dumplings to cook for another hour. This step is crucial for achieving tender and fluffy dumplings that will soak up the delicious broth. Avoid lifting the lid again during this time to ensure optimal steaming.

Step 8: Add Peas and Garnish
About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas gently, allowing them to heat through without losing their vibrant color. Once everything is warmed and cooked to perfection, garnish your cozy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor before serving.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists, ensuring your meal is uniquely yours and bursting with flavor!

Turkey Swap: Replace chicken with turkey for a comforting post-holiday dish that everyone will love.
Additional Veggies: Add green beans or corn for a colorful, nutrient-rich boost; their sweetness complements the creamy broth beautifully.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cream soups and dough to create a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a fragrant twist; these add a delightful freshness to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a warming heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements.
Creamy Mushroom Delight: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom; earthy tones will elevate the dish’s richness.
Mashed Potato Dumplings: Try using mashed potatoes instead of biscuit dough for a twist that adds a creamy, rich texture to the dish.
Coconut Cream Twist: For a unique flavor, replace cream soups with coconut cream—this adds a hint of sweetness and tropical flair.

With these variations, you can create the perfect version of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings that suits your family’s taste preferences while keeping mealtime exciting. If you’re feeling inspired, consider pairing it with recipes like Mexican Lime Chicken for a refreshing contrast or treat to follow with Honey Pepper Chicken for a touch of sweetness!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep ahead and save valuable time! You can prepare the soup base—chicken, broth, cream of chicken (and cream of celery, if using), along with the diced onions, carrots, and seasonings—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate everything in the slow cooker insert overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just add the lid, set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, and follow with the dumpling step as usual. This will ensure the flavors meld beautifully, keeping your meal as delicious and comforting as if freshly made!

What to Serve with Cozy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

As you savor the delightful warmth of this slow cooker dish, consider these comforting sides to create a wholesome meal experience.

Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, its buttery richness soaks up the creamy broth, enhancing every bite of chicken and dumplings.
Classic Green Salad: Crisp greens add freshness and balance, providing a contrast to the dish’s rich flavors. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it brightens the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables brings a caramelized sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly. Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a colorful addition.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Luxuriously smooth potatoes offer a buttery backdrop that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and dumplings. They also absorb any leftover broth nicely.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread is another great side—its crumbly texture and taste harmonize beautifully with the dish’s creaminess.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, enjoy a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. The sweet, spiced apples provide a delightful finish to a comforting meal.

These pairings not only elevate the experience of your cozy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings but also embrace the heartwarming spirit of family dinners.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Avoid Lid Lifting: Resist the urge to open the lid during cooking to keep the steam inside, which ensures that the dumplings are fluffy and properly cooked.
Sauté for Depth: For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This enhances the aromatic base for your dish.
Select the Right Chicken: Use thighs versus breasts for more flavor, but make sure to remove the skin for a healthier option.
Modify for Texture: If adding frozen vegetables, wait until the end of cooking to maintain their texture and color in your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.
Garnish Creatively: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and bright flavor, elevating the presentation of your comforting meal.

Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings tasting fresh and prevents any spoilage.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the consistency and restore creaminess.

Separation: If possible, store dumplings separately from the broth to maintain their fluffy texture upon reheating.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using chicken thighs as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts. However, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well too. Just make sure they are fresh and not overly processed for the best results.

What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
Very good question! Store leftover Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors intact, make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing. For longer storage, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!

Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings! To do this, cool the dish completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. For the best texture, I suggest separating the dumplings from the broth before freezing. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth to rehydrate the dumplings!

What should I do if the dumplings are too dense or undercooked?
If you find your dumplings are dense or undercooked, ensure you haven’t lifted the lid during the cooking process, as this can prevent them from steaming properly. You can also try cooking them longer in the slow cooker on high for an additional 15-30 minutes. Lastly, gently pressing them down into the broth can help them cook evenly.

Are there dietary considerations for allergies or pets?
Of course! If you’re serving Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to kids, family members with allergies, or even pets, be cautious. The dish contains chicken, dairy from the cream soups, and possibly gluten from the biscuit dough. For a pet-safe variation, simply cook plain chicken and vegetables without spices and avoid using broth with onion or garlic, which can be harmful to pets. Always double-check label ingredients for potential allergens!