As the sun sets and the chill of evening creeps in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings wafting through the house. I stumbled upon this delightful slow cooker recipe during a particularly hectic week when fast food just wouldn’t do. This dish transforms the classic into a simple, hands-off meal, allowing you to effortlessly enjoy a hearty dinner without sacrificing flavor. Picture using tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy dumplings, all simmering together for hours—melding into a soul-soothing masterpiece that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re looking to rekindle your love for homemade cooking or simply want to impress your family with minimal fuss, this warm crockpot chicken and dumplings dish is here to rescue your dinner time. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into creating a meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every delightful spoonful!
Why Will You Love Chicken and Dumplings?
Ease of Preparation: Toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it—it’s that simple!
Hearty Comfort: This dish combines tender chicken and veggies in a rich, savory broth, reminiscent of your grandmother’s kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet foodies, will savor every last bite.
Customizable Selection: Feel free to swap in fresh herbs or seasonal veggies, making it suitable for any palate.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week—talk about convenience!
Discover the joy of easy, comforting meals like this with warm crockpot chicken and dumplings; your family will be begging for seconds!
Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Main Dish
• Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, boneless and skinless are best for ease.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; season generously before cooking.
• Bay Leaf – Adds depth to the broth’s flavor; remember to remove before serving.
• Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme – Fresh or dried herbs to infuse aromatic goodness.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts the savory depth; fresh garlic works well too.
• Chicken Broth – Use low-sodium for a healthier option; Swanson’s is highly recommended.
• Carrot, Celery, Onion – These vegetables create a rich, nutritious base; dice evenly for consistent cooking.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides creaminess and enhances flavor; homemade varieties can be used as a substitute.
• Frozen Peas – Adds a touch of sweetness and bright color; ensure they’re thawed before mixing.
For the Dumplings
• Biscuit Dough (like Pillsbury Grands!) – The key to fluffy dumplings; cut and roll into balls for even cooking.
Experience the warm embrace of cozy chicken and dumplings that will make any weeknight dinner feel special!
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings
Season Chicken: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated for maximum flavor. This simple step sets the stage for a delicious meal!
Prepare Broth Base: In the crockpot, mix together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, herbs, and garlic powder until smooth. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
Add Chicken and Veggies: Gently place the seasoned chicken in the broth, adding diced carrot, celery, and onion on top. This colorful mix will create a beautiful, hearty base for your dish.
Cook Chicken: Cover your crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches 165°F. Keep an eye on it around the 3-hour mark for perfection.
Prep Dumplings: Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and roll each piece into marble-sized balls. This will ensure they cook evenly when added to the broth!
Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot with the thawed peas. Stir gently to combine all the delicious flavors.
Add Dumplings: Make sure the broth is simmering, then drop the biscuit balls evenly on top. You want them to bask in that savory goodness!
Cook Dumplings: Cover and cook on high for 1-2 hours, checking for doneness at the 1-hour mark. They’re ready when they are golden and fluffy!
Serve: Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before ladling into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful finish!
Optional: Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Dumplings
Room Temperature: This meal is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Note that dumplings may absorb the broth, changing their texture slightly.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in the dumplings, but you may freeze chicken and vegetable portions separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat chicken and dumplings on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the moisture and creamy consistency.
Make Ahead Options
These warm crockpot chicken and dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the broth base—chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, and herbs—up to 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to enjoy your cozy meal, just add the prepped ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work. The key to keeping your dumplings fluffy is to add them just before the chicken is done cooking, ensuring they remain airy and delicious. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll save precious time during a busy weeknight while enjoying a comforting home-cooked dish!
Expert Tips for Chicken and Dumplings
• Don’t Open the Lid: Keeping the lid closed during cooking is crucial; it locks in heat and steam that help cook the chicken and create fluffy dumplings.
• Pre-Cook Chicken: For extra flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances both taste and texture in the final dish.
• Dumpling Space: Leave some space between the dumplings in the pot to allow them to expand without sticking together, ensuring that each piece is fluffy and delicious.
• Thaw Peas: Make sure to thoroughly thaw the peas before adding them to the mix; this will prevent any excess water from diluting the rich chicken and dumplings broth.
• Herb Adjustment: Feel free to adjust herbs according to your taste; if you’re unsure, start with half the recommended amount and add more as needed for a balanced flavor experience.
These tips will help you master this cozy chicken and dumplings dish, ensuring every spoonful is as delightful as a warm hug!
Variations & Substitutions for Chicken and Dumplings
Now’s your chance to make this cozy dish your own! Feel free to switch things up for flavors that speak to your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cream of chicken soup with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream soup alternative for a lighter twist.
- Whole Grain Dumplings: Use whole wheat biscuit dough for a heartier texture and added nutrition. These will give your dish a wholesome feel.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to warm you from the inside out.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in chopped kale or spinach for extra greens; it adds nutrients and a vibrant pop of color to your dish!
- Protein Swap: Use turkey or even cooked sausage instead of chicken for a different protein flavor—great for using up leftovers!
- Herb Infusion: Swap the standard herbs for tarragon or dill for a fresh, earthy flavor that brightens the broth beautifully.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough or cornstarch for the dumplings to cater to gluten sensitivities.
Personalize your bowl of chicken and dumplings, and watch as it becomes a family favorite, bursting with flavors that resonate with your home!
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings?
As the comforting aroma fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about what delightful sides will accompany this hearty dish.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, savory flavors of chicken and dumplings.
Roasted Broccoli: The slight char and vibrant color of roasted broccoli bring an earthy flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious broth, making every last drop irresistible.
Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread enhances the comforting experience of chicken and dumplings, and it’s a wonderful addition to your meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide an extra layer of indulgence; their silky texture pairs nicely with the fluffy dumplings.
Apple Crisp Dessert: Finish your meal with a warm apple crisp for a delightful contrast of flavors, offering sweetness after the hearty main course.
Your table is now ready for a cozy gathering, inviting everyone to dive into comfort food bliss!
Warm Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my chicken is ripe enough to use?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for a pink color and moist texture. Avoid any that have a grayish hue or a foul smell. Fresh chicken should have a subtle, clean scent—if it smells too strong or off, it’s best to pass!
What’s the best way to store leftovers of chicken and dumplings?
You should store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep in mind that the dumplings may absorb the broth and become a bit softer. If you plan on storing them longer, it’s better to separate the chicken and veggies from the dumplings.
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
Unfortunately, freezing the whole dish is not recommended as it alters the dumplings’ texture, making them gummy when reheated. However, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable portions. Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw and reheat on the stovetop with some added chicken broth to revive the flavors.
What should I do if my dumplings turned out too dense?
Very! If your dumplings are too dense, it’s often due to having too much moisture or overworking the dough. Next time, make sure to gently roll the biscuit dough into balls without compressing them too much. Also, ensure there’s enough space in the pot for them to expand while cooking!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
The chicken and dumplings can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary needs. For those with allergies, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version or make your own using coconut milk or almond milk. Also, for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free biscuit dough or homemade dumplings made with almond flour.
How do I prevent my dumplings from becoming gummy?
To avoid gummy dumplings, always add them to the slow cooker only after the chicken has fully cooked. Make sure the broth is simmering before gently dropping them in, as this helps them cook evenly and fluffy. Additionally, place a clean kitchen towel under the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to absorb excess moisture, preventing the dumplings from becoming too doughy.
Cozy Chicken and Dumplings Made Easy in Your Crockpot
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- In the crockpot, mix together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, bay leaf, herbs, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Gently place the seasoned chicken in the broth, adding diced carrot, celery, and onion on top.
- Cover your crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and roll each piece into marble-sized balls.
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot with the thawed peas.
- Make sure the broth is simmering, then drop the biscuit balls evenly on top.
- Cover and cook on high for 1-2 hours, checking for doneness at the 1-hour mark.
- Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before ladling into bowls.