Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings after a long day. This hearty classic is a symphony of tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings that soak up every ounce of flavor.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening, hoping to create something easy yet indulgent for my family. Now, it's a regular on our dinner table—simple enough for a weekday but special enough for company. Let’s dive into this cozy recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Get ready to fall head over heels for this slow-cooked masterpiece. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy days when you want dinner to practically make itself.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with plenty of time to tackle your to-do list or simply unwind.

It’s also family-friendly! The creamy chicken and pillowy dumplings are a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Budget-conscious cooks, rejoice! Using simple ingredients like chicken thighs, canned biscuits, and pantry staples makes this dish as economical as it is delicious.

Lastly, it’s incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re adding vegetables, swapping out herbs, or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste, this recipe is flexible enough to cater to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s rich, comforting taste.

Chicken thighs are the star of this recipe. Their natural fat content keeps them juicy and flavorful even after hours of slow cooking. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but thighs give the best results.

Canned cream of chicken soup creates the creamy base for the dish. It’s a quick shortcut that provides a rich and velvety texture without the need for heavy cream or roux.

Refrigerated biscuit dough is the key to those perfect dumplings. Cut into bite-sized pieces, the dough cooks up fluffy and tender, absorbing the delicious broth as it simmers.

Chicken broth adds depth to the dish. Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness, and don’t be afraid to add a splash more if you like a thinner consistency.

Herbs and spices like thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper bring a subtle yet essential flavor to the dish. Fresh parsley as a garnish adds a pop of color and brightness.

You’ll need a slow cooker for this recipe, ideally one with a capacity of at least 6 quarts. This ensures there’s plenty of room for both the chicken and dumplings to cook evenly.

How To Make This Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Making this comforting dish is as easy as tossing everything into your crockpot and letting it work its magic. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by placing chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then sprinkle over a teaspoon of dried thyme for an herbal touch.

Add the creamy base by pouring in a can of cream of chicken soup and two cups of chicken broth. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the flavorful mixture.

Set your slow cooker to low and let the chicken cook for 6-7 hours. The low, slow heat ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and infused with the creamy broth.

About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken using two forks right in the crockpot. It should pull apart easily. Stir the mixture to distribute the chicken evenly.

Next, prepare the dumplings. Open a can of refrigerated biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into four pieces. Drop the dough pieces into the crockpot, ensuring they’re spaced apart to prevent sticking. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.

Finally, give the dish a gentle stir and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, they store beautifully, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Store the cooled chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating frozen dumplings, be gentle to maintain their texture. Use a low heat setting on the stovetop or microwave and stir occasionally.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own.

Add vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition and texture. Stir them in during the last hour of cooking to keep them tender-crisp.

Switch up the seasoning by adding a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream soup and skip the butter in the recipe. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.

Want to make it gluten-free? Substitute the biscuit dough with gluten-free dumplings or even gluten-free pasta for a unique twist.

Feeling indulgent? Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a cheesy upgrade.

No matter how you customize it, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are sure to be a hit. Experiment with flavors, make it your own, and enjoy every cozy, delicious bite.

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