After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a bowl of Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. The moment I lifted the lid on my slow cooker, a wave of savory aromas wrapped around me, instantly transforming my kitchen into a haven of warmth. This dish has become a staple in my home, effortlessly blending tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy dumplings into a creamy broth that delights every time.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe allows the slow cooker to do all the heavy lifting. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply crave a cozy meal to gather around with loved ones, it brings that homestyle warmth without the fuss. As I ladle this hearty goodness into bowls, I’m reminded that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated – it just needs to be delicious. Join me in creating a dish that truly feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Why is Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings amazing?
Comfort at Its Finest: This recipe wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every spoonful, perfect for chilly evenings.
Minimal Effort: Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work, giving you more time to unwind.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Family and friends will rave about this hearty classic, making it ideal for gatherings.
Customizable Goodness: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences, ensuring every batch is unique.
Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a rich, creamy broth filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, creating an unforgettable meal.
For even more comforting options, check out our other cozy recipes that bring warmth to your table!
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
• Chicken Thighs – Use boneless, skinless for convenience, or bone-in for rich flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses aromatic depth into the broth.
For the Vegetables
• Carrot – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture; parsnips or sweet potatoes are great substitutes.
• Celery – Provides crunch and flavor; bell peppers can be used for a different twist.
• Onion – Offers sweetness and depth; shallots are lovely for a milder flavor.
For the Broth
• Chicken Broth – A quality brand enriches the flavor; adjust salt levels in other ingredients if using salted broth.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Thickens the broth and adds creaminess; consider homemade or low-fat options for lighter meals.
For the Dumplings
• Biscuit Dough – The main component for dumplings; brands like Pillsbury Grands! are perfect for this dish.
• Frozen Peas – Provides freshness and texture; can be skipped or swapped with corn if preferred.
Bring your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings to life with these ingredients, and let’s create a dish that wraps your family in cozy comfort!
How to Make Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Prepare Chicken: Season 2 lbs of chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper for a flavorful base. This step ensures your chicken has the best taste while cooking.
Make Broth Base: In your crockpot, combine 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 bay leaf, and 1 teaspoon each of parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. This mixture creates a rich and savory foundation.
Add Chicken & Veggies: Nestle the seasoned chicken in the broth and add 2 diced carrots, 2 chopped celery stalks, and 1 diced onion. Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches 165°F and is tender.
Prepare Dumplings: Cut 1 can of biscuit dough into quarters and roll each piece into marble-sized balls. This will create fluffy dumplings that cook perfectly in the broth.
Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot. Shred it with two forks and return it to the pot along with 1 cup of thawed peas. Discard the bay leaf for a clean finish.
Simmer Dumplings: Drop your biscuit balls into the simmering broth and cook on high for 1-2 hours, until they are golden and firm on top. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to retain heat.
Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before ladling it into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for that extra touch of flavor and beauty.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Transform your cozy meal into a delightful family feast with some complementary dishes that balance flavors and textures beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: The crispness of fresh greens adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy dumplings, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Roasted Green Beans: These vibrant, slightly sweet veggies bring a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft dumplings and tender chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-rich side is not only colorful but also adds a touch of vibrancy to your plate, making each bite more enjoyable.
Cornbread: While it may not be essential, a warm slice of cornbread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth, making for a comforting meal.
Mashed Potatoes: If you’re craving a heartier experience, creamy mashed potatoes can serve as an excellent base, soaking up every delicious drop of broth.
Homemade Apple Pie: For dessert, this classic will transport you back to childhood, offering a sweet balance to your savory meal.
Explore these delicious pairings to elevate your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings into a memorable family gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken thighs and prepare the broth base (chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, and herbs) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate these components separately to maintain their quality—this helps prevent the chicken from becoming dry. When you’re ready to cook, nestle the chicken into the broth with the diced vegetables and set your slow cooker for the recommended time. For the dumplings, you can cut the biscuit dough into quarters and roll them into balls ahead of time, storing them in the fridge until cooking. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort when you’re short on time!
Expert Tips for Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Lid Lifting: Avoid opening the lid during cooking. This helps maintain the temperature and steam necessary for perfectly cooked dumplings.
Dumpling Timing: Only add biscuit dough after the chicken has fully cooked to prevent gummy dumplings. Timing is key!
Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure there’s enough space for dumplings in the pot. Overcrowded dumplings may not cook evenly, affecting the texture.
Doughy Dumplings Fix: If your dumplings turn out doughy, place a kitchen towel under the lid for the last 15 minutes. This allows moisture to escape and firm up the dumplings.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality chicken broth for a richer flavor in your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings. It genuinely elevates the dish!
Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your broth before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Sometimes, a bit more salt or herbs can make a world of difference!
Storage Tips for Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep in mind, the dumplings will absorb some broth, which may alter the dish’s texture.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the soup base without dumplings. Reheat later for a delicious broth with fresh dumplings.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If microwaving, add a splash of broth to prevent drying out, making your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings moisture-rich again.
Quality Check: Always check for freshness before consuming leftovers, especially if stored for a few days.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Whether you’re looking for a new twist or need to accommodate specific dietary needs, these variations will ensure your meal is always delightful.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade non-dairy alternative, like cashew cream, for a creamy texture without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough for the dumplings to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities, letting everyone enjoy it without concern.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the broth for a subtle heat that gives a warming surprise with every bite.
Vegetarian: Swap chicken with chickpeas or jackfruit and use vegetable broth instead, providing a hearty, plant-based meal that’s still satisfying.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil in place of the traditional parsley and thyme for a fresh take that brightens the flavors.
Extra Veggies: Boost your nutrition by adding spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for a pop of color and added vitamins.
One-Pot Wonder: Throw in pasta or rice instead of dumplings to make it a comforting one-pot meal, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the broth.
Sweet Potato Dumplings: Replace biscuit dough with sweet potato gnocchi for a naturally sweet and fluffy alternative that pairs beautifully with the rich broth.
Embrace these variations and make this recipe your own – your family will love the creativity!
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe, I recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor. However, boneless, skinless thighs are just as convenient and work wonderfully. Look for thighs that are moist and firm with no dark spots.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep in mind that the dumplings will soak up some of the broth, potentially changing the texture. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before sealing; this keeps it fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended for the complete dish as the dumplings may become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze just the soup base (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then heat on the stovetop and add fresh dumplings.
What if my dumplings turn out doughy?
If your dumplings end up a bit doughy, don’t worry! A simple fix is to place a kitchen towel under the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This allows some moisture to escape, helping the dumplings firm up and become fluffy instead of gummy.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! Always be mindful if you’re serving anyone with allergies. This recipe contains gluten from the biscuit dough, as well as potential allergens in the cream of chicken soup. For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure the cream soup is also gluten-free.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
To make sure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. The slow cooker does the work for you, but having this handy tool can give you peace of mind when cooking.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder in the crockpot.
- Add seasoned chicken, diced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion to the broth.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours until chicken reaches 165°F and is tender.
- Cut biscuit dough into quarters and roll into marble-sized balls.
- Shred cooked chicken and return to the pot with thawed peas. Discard bay leaf.
- Drop biscuit balls into the simmering broth and cook on high for 1-2 hours.
- Let dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.