Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Classic Made Easy

There’s something incredibly satisfying about walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the aroma of a warm, hearty meal cooking in your crockpot. Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect combination of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.

If you’ve been looking for a dish that’s both simple and soul-soothing, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this classic comfort food with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

• Effortless Cooking: Your crockpot does all the heavy lifting, so you can spend less time in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love the creamy texture and hearty flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always hits the spot.
• Customizable: You can tweak the recipe with additional vegetables, spices, or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty dish:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs	1½ pounds (5–6 thighs)	Tender and flavorful, perfect for shredding.
Kosher salt	½ teaspoon	Adds balanced seasoning.
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon	For a touch of spice.
Bay leaf	1	Enhances the depth of flavor.
Dried parsley	1 teaspoon	Brings a fresh, herbal note.
Dried rosemary	½ teaspoon	Adds a hint of woodsy flavor.
Dried thyme	½ teaspoon	Earthy and aromatic.
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon	Subtle garlic flavor without overpowering.
Low-sodium chicken broth	1¾ cups	Creates a rich, savory base.
Carrot	1, peeled and sliced	Adds sweetness and texture.
Onion	1, chopped	Provides a flavorful foundation.
Cream of chicken soup	10.5 ounces (1 can)	Adds creaminess and depth.
Frozen peas	½ cup	For color and sweetness.
Refrigerated biscuit dough	16.3 ounces (8 large biscuits)	Becomes the fluffy dumplings.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)	For garnish	Adds a touch of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

1. Prepare Your Crockpot

• Begin by shaking salt and pepper over both sides of the chicken thighs.
• Arrange the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your crockpot.

2. Add Aromatics and Seasonings

• Sprinkle the bay leaf, dried parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder over the chicken.

3. Incorporate Liquid and Vegetables

• Pour in the chicken broth, then add the sliced carrot, chopped onion, and cream of chicken soup.
• Gently stir the top layer to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken.

4. Let It Simmer

• Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.

5. Shred the Chicken

• Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

6. Add the Dumplings

• Tear or cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into small pieces (about 1 inch each) and place them evenly on top of the chicken mixture.
• Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH for another 1–2 hours, until the biscuits are cooked through and fluffy.

7. Add the Peas

• In the final 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (if desired) and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful chicken and dumplings!

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Choosing the Right Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: These are more tender and flavorful than breasts, making them ideal for slow cooking.
• Substitute Options: If you prefer chicken breasts, they work well too but may need slightly less cooking time.

How to Make Fluffy Dumplings

• Use refrigerated biscuit dough for convenience, but if you want to make dumplings from scratch, a simple mixture of flour, baking powder, milk, and butter works wonders.

Thickening the Broth

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.

Adding Vegetables

• Feel free to include additional vegetables like green beans, celery, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories	~400
Protein	28g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fiber	3g

Why Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is versatile and suits a variety of scenarios:

• Weeknight Comfort: Easy to prepare and perfect after a long day.
• Family Gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
• Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.

FAQs About Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

1. Can I use homemade dumplings instead of biscuit dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dumplings are easy to make and add a personal touch to the dish.

2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free biscuit dough and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version.

4. Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the chicken mixture without the dumplings. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

5. How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy?

Make sure to place the dumplings on top of the chicken mixture and avoid stirring them into the broth.

6. Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes, turkey or even pork can work well as substitutes for chicken.

A Dish That Feels Like Home

Few meals bring as much comfort and joy as Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. It’s warm, creamy, and full of flavors that remind you of home. Best of all, it’s easy enough for any cook to master, no matter your experience level.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let the magic happen. Your family and friends will thank you for this heartwarming dish—and you’ll love how effortless it is to prepare.

Pro Tip: Pair it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to round out your meal. Happy cooking!

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