As the leaves begin to turn and a cool breeze sweeps through the air, I find myself craving the ultimate comfort food: warm crockpot chicken and dumplings. Picture this: a tender, savory blend of chicken thighs simmering in a rich, fragrant broth, with fluffy dumplings perched atop, ready to soak up all that delicious goodness. It’s a meal that wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday dinner.
I stumbled upon this easy recipe when I was looking for a stress-free way to feed my family on those hectic days. With just a few simple ingredients tossed into the slow cooker, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours in the kitchen. And the best part? No lengthy prep or cleanup involved! It’s a family-friendly recipe that even the pickiest eaters will adore. So grab your crockpot and get ready to serve up a bowl of nostalgia that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds!
Why is Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings a Must-Try?
Comforting Delight: This recipe delivers the ultimate cozy experience, reminding you of home-cooked meals that warm the heart.
Effortless Cooking: Just toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic, leaving you free to enjoy your day.
Family Favorite: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or customize veggies to cater to your family’s taste preferences.
Perfectly Hearty: Each bowl is packed with tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings, creating a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Boneless, skinless thighs are perfect for juiciness; chicken breasts can be used but may dry out.
For the Broth
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural chicken flavor; season to taste.
• Bay Leaf – Adds aromatic depth to the broth; don’t forget to remove it before serving!
• Parsley, Rosemary & Thyme – Fresh or dried herbs bring rich flavors; feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory kick; fresh garlic is a lovely substitute if you prefer.
For the Soup Base
• Chicken Broth – The base of your soup; Swanson’s is recommended, but any quality broth works well.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides creaminess and depth; consider homemade versions for a healthier choice.
For the Vegetables
• Carrot, Celery & Onion – Diced into ½-inch pieces for even cooking; these add texture and flavor to the dish.
• Frozen Peas – To be added at the end for a pop of color and sweetness; make sure they are thawed for best texture.
For the Dumplings
• Biscuit Dough – The heart of your fluffy dumplings; cut into quarters and roll into balls for even cooking. Feel free to swap for homemade dumpling dough if desired.
With this collection of simple yet wholesome ingredients, your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings will be a comforting masterpiece, ready to wrap your family in flavor and warmth.
How to Make Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Season Chicken: Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken thighs. This essential step enhances the natural flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Prepare Broth: In your trusty crockpot, mix together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy—this will be your flavorful base!
Add Chicken & Veggies: Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the aromatic broth mixture. Gently add the diced carrot, celery, and onion, ensuring even distribution for that delicious blend of flavors.
Cook Chicken: Cover your crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Check at the 3-hour mark for extra assurance of doneness.
Prep Dumplings: While the chicken is cooking, cut your biscuit dough into quarters. Shape each piece into a ball, about the size of a marble; this helps achieve the fluffy texture we all love!
Shred Chicken: When the chicken is done cooking, shred it using two forks right in the crockpot. Stir to return it to the pot, then add the thawed peas and remember to remove the bay leaf.
Add Dumplings: Turn up the heat if needed, and gently drop the biscuit balls into the simmering broth. Cover and cook on high for an additional 1-2 hours, until the dumplings are cooked through and golden. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Serve: Once done, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes. Ladle into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful finishing touch!
Optional: Drizzle a little extra cream over the top for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid opening the lid frequently while cooking; each time you do, heat escapes, prolonging the cooking time for your dumplings.
Perfect Dumpling Texture: Make sure to add biscuit balls only after the chicken is fully cooked. This prevents any doughy texture in your dumplings.
Use a Towel Trick: If your dumplings seem too moist, place a clean kitchen towel under the lid for the last 15 minutes of cooking; this helps absorb excess steam.
Space Matters: Give your dumplings room to expand in the broth. Less crowded dumplings will cook evenly and stay fluffy, enhancing the overall texture of your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings.
Quality Ingredients Count: Using high-quality chicken broth and fresh herbs elevates the flavor of your dish, making it truly comfort food worthy!
What to Serve with Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
As you savor each spoonful of this cozy dish, pair it with delightful sides that enhance the overall dining experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the chicken and dumplings. The crispness complements the heartiness perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Aromatic and warm, garlic bread provides a lovely contrast in texture. Use it to soak up the rich broth—pure bliss in every bite!
Roasted Green Beans: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, roasted green beans add a savory touch and a pop of color to your plate. Their slight crispiness is a delightful texture contrast to the soft dumplings.
Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy freshness of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the hearty stew. The cool, creamy elements of the slaw brighten the meal, adding a zing that cuts through the richness.
Cheddar Cornbread: A slice of warm, cheesy cornbread serves as a perfect complement to your chicken and dumplings. Its slightly sweet flavor enhances the savory notes of the dish.
Dessert Wine: For a touch of elegance, consider serving a glass of dessert wine like Moscato. Its sweetness balances the savory elements of the meal and adds a lovely ending to your cozy dinner.
Apple Crisp: Finish off your meal with a warm apple crisp. The sweetness and warmth from cinnamon-laced apples provide a nostalgic comfort that ties the whole experience together beautifully.
Storage Tips for Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep in mind that the dumplings will absorb some liquid and may change texture over time.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the dumplings may lose their fluffy texture when thawed and reheated.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of chicken broth to help restore some moisture and enhance flavor. Enjoy your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings fresh whenever possible!
Make Ahead Options
These Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and combine the broth (chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, herbs, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to enhance flavor. Chopping the vegetables can also be done ahead, keeping them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken and veggies to your slow cooker, let it simmer, then drop in the dumplings before serving. This approach saves you time on busy weeknights while ensuring that each bowl is just as delicious as if you made it all from scratch at once!
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own by exploring these delightful twists!
Dairy-Free: Replace cream of chicken soup with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter option.
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for hearty root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms, ensuring a robust texture in every bite.
Herb Swaps: Experiment with unique herbs such as dill or tarragon, adding a refreshing twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Heat Lovers: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch and add a layer of warmth.
Mixed Veggies: Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of just carrots, celery, and onions for a colorful and nutritious medley—plus, it’s super easy!
Grain-Free: For a paleo-friendly option, replace biscuit dough with almond flour dumplings for a gluten-free variation that satisfies.
Bonus Protein: Add some white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber, giving this comfort dish more nutritional value.
Sweet Corn: Toss in frozen sweet corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of sweetness that complements the savory broth.
With these variations, your warm crockpot chicken and dumplings can become a new adventure each time you make it, ensuring that every bite is filled with love and flavor!
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
For the best flavor and moisture, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They hold up well during the slow cooking process. If you prefer chicken breasts, be aware that they can dry out more easily, so consider adjusting the cooking time slightly.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be mindful that the dumplings will absorb some of the broth, which can alter their texture. If you’re worried about this, try enjoying the dish fresh after preparing it for the best experience!
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dumplings potentially losing their delightful fluffy texture when reheated. If you absolutely need to freeze it, I suggest only storing the broth and chicken separately from the dumplings, then preparing fresh dumplings when you reheat.
What should I do if my dumplings seem too doughy?
Absolutely! To prevent doughy dumplings, ensure you add them to the broth only after the chicken is fully cooked. If you find them too moist at the end of cooking, place a clean kitchen towel under the lid for the last 15 minutes to absorb excess steam and achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Are there any ingredient substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute chicken thighs with turkey or use vegetable broth and mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version. Always consider your guests’ dietary needs and allergies when preparing meals.
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for Ultimate Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken thighs.
- In your crockpot, mix together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the aromatic broth mixture. Add the diced carrot, celery, and onion.
- Cover your crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Cut your biscuit dough into quarters and shape each piece into a ball.
- When the chicken is done, shred it and stir back into the pot. Add the thawed peas and remove the bay leaf.
- Drop the biscuit balls into the broth. Cover and cook on high for an additional 1-2 hours.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.