Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in a warm embrace like your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a rich, savory broth, kissed by fragrant herbs, while fluffy dumplings float atop like little clouds of happiness. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make your neighbors question why they weren’t invited over for dinner.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane. I can still remember my grandmother making her famous chicken and dumplings on rainy Sundays, filling our home with an irresistible scent that made even the grumpiest of us crack a smile. Perfect for cozy family dinners or lazy weekends, this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe promises to bring warmth and joy to your table—just be prepared for everyone to ask for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- This incredible Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth; chop it finely to enhance the flavors as it cooks.
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Carrots: Use fresh carrots, peeled and chopped; they add sweetness and color to your dish.
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Celery: Fresh celery provides crunch and enhances the broth’s savory profile.
For the Sauce:
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness in the final dish.
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Dried Thyme: This herb brings an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
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Frozen Peas: Add these towards the end of cooking for color and sweetness; they cook quickly!
For the Dumplings:
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Baking Powder: Essential for creating light and fluffy dumplings—don’t skip this!
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Milk: Whole milk keeps the dumplings moist; feel free to use alternatives if needed.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by chopping all your vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking later on.
Step 2: Layer It Up
Place your boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Scatter the chopped vegetables over them like confetti at a parade.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Pour in low-sodium chicken broth until everything is submerged. Sprinkle dried thyme over the top like you’re casting a magic spell.
Step 4: Set It and Forget It
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for three hours—whichever suits your schedule best. Just remember not to lift that lid too often!
Step 5: Make Those Dumplings
About half an hour before serving, mix baking powder, flour, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined. Scoop dollops of dough onto the bubbling broth; they’ll puff up nicely as they cook.
Step 6: Finish Strong
When everything is cooked through (the chicken should shred easily), gently fold in frozen peas during the last five minutes of cooking. Transfer to plates and serve with pride!
Now grab a spoon, dig in, and let each bite transport you back to simpler times when life was cozy—and probably involved more naps! If anyone asks how you became such an amazing cook overnight… Just tell them it was all thanks to this fantastic Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe!
You Must Know About Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- This showstopping Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, start by searing the chicken to lock in moisture and flavor. While the chicken simmers away, prepare your dumplings according to the recipe while keeping an eye on the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Flavor Your Way
Get creative with your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings by swapping out vegetables or adding spices like paprika or garlic powder. Love a bit of heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños for a zesty kick, or try fresh herbs for a fragrant twist.
Storing & Reheating
After enjoying your delightful Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on low heat in a saucepan until heated through, stirring occasionally to keep the dumplings soft.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
The first time I made Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, my friends devoured it so fast that I barely got a taste! Their laughter filled my kitchen as they fought over the last dumpling—a memory that still warms my heart.
FAQs
What is Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked slowly in a crockpot. This dish offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken remains juicy while allowing the dumplings to absorb the delicious broth. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that warms the soul during chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Many people enjoy this recipe for its simplicity and hearty ingredients.
How do I make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
To make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, start by placing chicken breasts in the crockpot along with vegetables like carrots and celery. Add chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings for flavor. Cook on low for several hours until the chicken is tender. Towards the end of cooking, drop biscuit dough or homemade dumpling dough on top of the mixture. Cover and let them steam for about 30 minutes until fluffy and cooked through. This method guarantees a satisfying meal your whole family will love.
Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings! The slow cooking process allows frozen chicken to thaw safely while cooking. However, it’s important to ensure that your crockpot has enough time to cook thoroughly; typically, you’ll need to extend the cooking time by about an hour. Additionally, using frozen chicken may prevent it from browning as nicely as fresh chicken would. Regardless, the dish will still turn out deliciously.
What are some variations of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
There are many tasty variations of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to suit different preferences. You can switch out chicken for turkey or even use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Experimenting with different vegetables like peas or green beans adds color and nutrition. For added flavor, consider using herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also try using homemade dumpling recipes instead of store-bought biscuits for a unique twist on this classic comfort food.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is an easy-to-make comfort dish that brings warmth to any table. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Remember to utilize versatile ingredients such as vegetables and proteins to customize your dish further. By following these steps, you will enjoy a delightful bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings that everyone will love!
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. This delightful dish features tender chicken simmered in a flavorful broth, paired with fresh vegetables and fluffy dumplings that absorb all the savory goodness. Let your slow cooker work its magic while your home fills with the mouthwatering aroma of this nostalgic classic. It’s simple, heartwarming, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop onions, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and layer chopped vegetables on top.
- Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged; sprinkle thyme over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto bubbling broth.
- Add frozen peas during the last five minutes of cooking. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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