If you’re craving a warm hug in a bowl, you cannot go wrong with this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with fluffy biscuit dumplings and a rich, creamy broth that’s bursting with comforting flavors. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family dinner that needs to come together effortlessly, this recipe brings hearty satisfaction and a delightful homestyle touch that will make your kitchen smell like pure comfort. Plus, it’s all done in the crockpot, freeing you up to relax while it simmers to perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in crafting the luscious texture, cozy flavors, and inviting colors of this dish.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The star protein that becomes tender and shreddable after slow cooking.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and an aromatic base that enhances the broth’s depth.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): A punch of savory warmth that complements the rich flavors.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that keeps everything moist and juicy.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Gives the broth its creamy, indulgent consistency.
- 1/2 cup milk: Further enriches the broth to luxurious creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthiness and herbal note to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a mild, fresh green flavor to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides gentle heat that lifts the overall taste.
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables: Colorful veggies that add texture, nutrients, and freshness.
- 1 can (16.3 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret to soft, fluffy dumplings that soak up the delicious broth.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A vibrant touch for serving that brightens every spoonful.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Your Crockpot
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, add the diced onion and minced garlic, pouring in the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper for that comforting seasoning profile. Give everything a gentle stir to marry the flavors without disturbing the chicken too much.
Step 2: Let It Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover your crockpot and let it cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process breaks down the chicken into tender perfection, allowing the broth to thicken and develop that irresistible creamy goodness.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Add Vegetables
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, shred it right in the crockpot using two forks. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, which will gently cook through and add bursts of color and texture.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Dumplings
Chop the biscuit dough into small, bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the top of the stew. Press them down just enough to moisten but not submerge them entirely. Then cover and cook on high for an additional 1 to 1 1/2 hours, letting the dumplings rise and become fluffy, soaking up all those wonderful flavors from below.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pretty pop of green and a hint of fresh herbaceousness that compliments every mouthful.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with chopped fresh parsley is a lovely way to brighten this hearty dish visually and add a fresh herbal lift. You could also consider a little cracked black pepper or a drizzle of melted butter for extra richness.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a meal in itself, but if you want to serve something on the side, crisp green salads or lightly steamed greens like asparagus or green beans make wonderful, refreshing accompaniments that balance the creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and dumplings in rustic bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, cozy presentation. For a family-friendly buffet, keep it warm in the crockpot and let guests serve themselves, piling the dumplings high.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight, so leftovers can taste even better the next day. Just be aware the dumplings might soak up more liquid and become a little denser.
Freezing
This dish freezes well before adding the biscuit dough. Freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable stew in a suitable container, and when ready to enjoy, thaw overnight, reheat, and add fresh biscuit dough on top to cook just before serving for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it back up and restore that creamy, comforting consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and proper shredding texture. Frozen chicken may result in uneven cooking and longer cook times.
Can I make homemade dumplings instead of using biscuit dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dumplings can make this dish even more special and rustic. Just add them in the last hour of cooking and cook covered, as you would with biscuit dough.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with a healthier alternative?
Yes, you can create a homemade cream of chicken soup using flour, chicken broth, and milk, which can reduce preservatives and add fresher flavors. It also lets you control the salt content.
What vegetables work best in this recipe?
Frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn are convenient, but fresh options such as diced carrots, celery, and green beans can work nicely if slightly sautéed beforehand to soften them.
Is this recipe suitable for slow cookers of all sizes?
This recipe is designed for a 6-quart crockpot but can be adjusted slightly for larger or smaller slow cookers by scaling the ingredients proportionally.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a home-cooked meal that comforts and delights at the same time, and this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe checks all those boxes beautifully. It’s simple, hands-off, and yields a dish that warms your soul and brings smiles around the table. So, grab your crockpot, gather the ingredients, and let this classic recipe become your new favorite go-to for cozy, satisfying dinners.
