There’s something about a chilly evening that calls for a bowl of warmth, and I can’t think of anything more comforting than a hearty slow cooker chicken and dumplings. As I stirred the pot, the mingling scents of thyme, garlic, and simmering chicken took over my kitchen, wrapping me in an embrace of familiarity and comfort. This recipe has become my go-to for busy days when I crave a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have tender chicken drenched in a creamy broth, topped with fluffy dumplings that make every spoonful feel like a warm hug. Not only is it incredibly easy, but it also adapts beautifully to your taste, allowing you to swap in different veggies or even use chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Join me in savoring this comforting classic that invites everyone to the table—and trust me, no one will believe how effortless it was to make!

Why is chicken and dumplings the ultimate comfort food?

Simplicity reigns supreme: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks. Hearty and satisfying: Each bowl offers a warm embrace, filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings swimming in creamy broth. Adaptability is key: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or chicken options, making it your own! Slow cooker magic: Let it simmer while you enjoy your day, returning home to a delicious meal. Perfect for family gatherings, this dish always wins hearts and bellies alike!

Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

• Here’s what you need for a comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings.

For the Chicken Base

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; can substitute with chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the chicken’s flavor; adjust to taste.
Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; feel free to use to taste throughout the dish.
Yellow Onion – Adds depth of flavor; diced into ½-inch pieces.
Garlic Cloves – Imparts aromatic goodness; minced for best results.

For the Vegetables

Thyme Sprigs – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh preferred for the best taste.
Large Carrot – Brings sweetness and texture; cut into 1-inch chunks.
Celery – Introduces crunch and flavor; diced into ½-inch pieces.
Frozen Peas – Contributes color and sweetness; any brand works great.

For the Broth

Cream of Chicken Soup – Acts as a creamy base; can substitute with an equivalent amount of homemade cream sauce if preferred.
Water – Creates the broth base; replace with chicken broth for more flavor.

For the Dumplings

Refrigerated Biscuits – Forms the fluffy dumpling topping; any brand works, just ensure even spacing on top!

Dive into this cozy bowl of chicken and dumplings today, where each bite warms your heart!

How to Make Chicken and Dumplings

Prep Ingredients: Begin by dicing the onion, carrot, and celery into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to ensure each bite is flavorful.
Layer in Slow Cooker: Add the diced vegetables and fresh thyme to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken on top, creating a solid base for your comforting dish.
Add Liquids: Pour in the cream of chicken soup and water over the chicken and veggies, covering them completely to lock in moisture. For an extra flavor boost, consider using chicken broth instead!
Cook Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and set it to High for 2 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooking, shred the chicken within the cooker for a delightful texture.
Incorporate Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and diced celery, adjusting the seasoning to your liking. This step adds brightness to your dish and makes it visually appealing.
Prepare Dumplings: Halve the refrigerated biscuits and space them evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Lightly season the tops for extra flavor, ensuring they rise beautifully while cooking.
Finish Cooking: Cook on High for 30 minutes, then stir gently. Continue cooking for an additional 2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to achieve fluffy dumplings and avoid tough edges.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?

Dreaming of a cozy family dinner? Complete your meal with delightful pairings that enhance every comforting spoonful.

Mixed Greens Salad: A light, refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast to the hearty richness of chicken and dumplings, brightening your plate.
Roasted Green Beans: Their tender bite and nutty flavors perfectly balance the creamy broth, while a sprinkle of garlic elevates the dish.
Crusty Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the luxurious sauce, these warm rolls bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your table.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly, cornbread muffins complement the savory flavors while adding a delightful texture to your meal.
Herb-Infused Rice: Lightly seasoned rice provides extra substance without overpowering the dish, making it an easy yet filling accompaniment.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevates the meal, its brightness cutting through the creamy richness of your chicken and dumplings.
Apple Crisp: End your comforting dinner with a warm apple crisp, its cinnamon and sweetness echoing the satisfying flavors of your main dish.

Make Ahead Options

These easy slow cooker chicken and dumplings are perfect for meal prep! You can prep the vegetables and season the chicken breast up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply dicing onion, carrot, and celery and seasoning the chicken (to prevent browning) can save you precious time when weekday dinner approaches. When you’re ready to cook, layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and add the liquids. Finish cooking by following the steps outlined above, and enjoy a weeknight meal that’s just as delicious, with all the comforting warmth you crave!

Storage Tips for Chicken and Dumplings

Room Temperature: Enjoy your chicken and dumplings fresh; do not leave out for more than 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The dumplings will absorb broth, so add a splash of liquid when reheating.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in the dumplings. The creamy broth can also separate upon thawing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftover chicken and dumplings, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

Expert Tips for Chicken and Dumplings

Proper Chicken Cooking: Avoid overcooking the chicken initially to prevent dryness. Shred it immediately after cooking for the best texture.
Spacing Matters: Ensure you leave space between biscuit pieces in the slow cooker to prevent them from steaming together and forming a dense mass.
Stirring Technique: Stir the dumplings every 30 minutes during the final cooking stage to ensure even cooking and prevent tough edges that can ruin the texture.
Broth Adjustments: If the chicken and dumplings dish becomes too thick when reheating, add extra broth for the desired consistency.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a richer flavor or mix in seasonal vegetables to personalize your chicken and dumplings.

Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to personalize this dish to your heart’s content and make it uniquely yours!

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, richer flavor that enhances every bite.
Vegetable Medley: Mix in seasonal vegetables like corn or green beans for added color and nutrition.
Homemade Dumplings: Try your hand at making homemade dumplings, giving a delightful from-scratch touch to the broth.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a little heat that perks up the flavors.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to switch up the aromatic profile and keep things interesting.
Creamed Spinach: Stir in fresh or frozen spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition while enriching the creamy texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuits or dumpling mixes to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Chardonnay Boost: Add a splash of Chardonnay to the broth for a sophisticated twist that elevates the meal and enhances the depth of flavor.

Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but chicken thighs bring extra moisture and flavor. When selecting your chicken, look for firm, pink meat without any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage.

How can I store leftovers properly?
Very good question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since the dumplings will absorb some of the broth, be sure to add a little liquid when reheating to keep that creamy texture. For best flavor and safety, consume within this timeframe.

Can I freeze the chicken and dumplings?
I generally advise against freezing this dish because the dumplings’ texture can change once thawed, becoming soggy or dense. If you must freeze, try to separate the soup base from the dumplings, and store them in separate containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding freshly made dumplings.

What should I do if the dumplings turn out tough?
To prevent tough dumplings, I suggest stirring them gently every 30 minutes during their cooking time. If they are already tough, cover with a bit of extra broth when reheating to help soften them up. And remember, ensuring they’re evenly spaced when placed in the slow cooker helps them cook more tenderly.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. If you or a loved one has dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out specific ingredients. For example, choose gluten-free biscuits and chicken broth to make it gluten-friendly, or substitute cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate lactose intolerances. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens!

What are some good vegetable substitutions?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your veggies based on what you have at home or what’s in season. Corn, green beans, or even chopped spinach can work beautifully in this dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly if you’re adding tougher vegetables like carrots or celery, which can take longer to soften.