As the chill of evening settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty meal to lift your spirits. I discovered the magic of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings on one such brisk night when I craved comfort without the rush of a busy kitchen. With the slow cooker working its wonders, I could simply layer in tender chicken, a medley of fresh veggies, and those fluffy dumplings that float to the top like little puffs of happiness. This recipe transforms your typical weeknight into a cozy, family-friendly feast, all while allowing you to savor the delightful aromas wafting through your home. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or seeking an easy way to wind down after a long day, this comforting dish is sure to satisfy both your hunger and your soul. Dive in and enjoy a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless!

Why will you love Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot wonder is a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy weekdays and novice cooks alike.

Tender, Flavorful Chicken: Slow-cooking allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth and spices, resulting in a juicy, satisfying meal.

Hearty Dumplings: Those fluffy dumplings are a highlight! They soak up the creamy broth beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or even swap chicken for turkey to suit your family’s preferences.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make it in the slow cooker and enjoy leftovers or portion it out for meals throughout the week.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: The warm, homey flavors make this dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s a recipe that fills both bellies and hearts!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

Get ready to create a warm, hearty meal the whole family will love!

For the Chicken Mixture

Chicken Breasts/Thighs – Choose thighs for more flavor or breasts for a leaner option.
Cream of Chicken Soup – This is the base for a rich and creamy broth.
Cream of Celery Soup (optional) – Adds extra creaminess; feel free to skip if you prefer.
Onion – Diced yellow or white onions give depth and sweetness.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor of the dish.
Carrots – Fresh, sliced carrots contribute sweetness and a lovely texture.
Frozen Peas – Adds color and sweetness; substitute with other veggies if desired.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – The cooking liquid providing savory flavor; helps manage salt levels.
Dried Thyme – An herb that enhances the dish’s flavor; can be swapped for rosemary or sage.
Black Pepper & Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
Poultry Seasoning (optional) – Creates complexity in flavor; replace with a mix of herbs if you like.

For the Dumplings

Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – This is the key to fluffy dumplings; gluten-free options work well too.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle adds color and freshness just before serving.

Enjoy making this comforting dish and feel the love in every bite of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Layer Ingredients: Place the chicken breast or thighs in your slow cooker. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then add cream of chicken soup and, if desired, cream of celery soup. Stir gently to blend all the ingredients.
Add Vegetables: Scatter the diced onion, sliced carrots, minced garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and optional poultry seasoning over the chicken mixture without stirring. This keeps the flavors intact during cooking.
Set Timer: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. It’s ready when the chicken is tender and easy to shred apart.
Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken using two forks and shred it right in the crockpot. Mix it back into the creamy broth to incorporate all those wonderful flavors.
Prepare Dumplings: Take the refrigerated biscuit dough and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Drop these pieces evenly on top of the chicken mixture, partly submerging them into the broth.
Cook Dumplings: Cover and switch to high heat, cooking for an additional hour. Keep that lid closed—this traps the steam and ensures the dumplings rise fluffily.
Final Touches: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely garnish.

Optional: Drizzle with a touch of lemon juice for a bright flavor contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Perfect Dumplings: Avoid stirring the dumplings into the chicken mixture; let them rise on top for fluffy texture.
Flavor Boost: Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker for an extra burst of flavor.
Don’t Peek: Keep the lid closed during cooking to ensure dumplings steam properly and come out perfectly fluffy.
Texture Check: Ensure the dumplings are fully cooked through; they should be light and airy, not doughy.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or use frozen options for convenience, enhancing your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with extra nutrition.

Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. For best texture, omit the dumplings before freezing and add fresh dumplings when reheating.

Reheating: When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a bit of broth if it thickens too much.

Room Temperature: Do not leave Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine and customize this dish to suit your family’s preferences!

Turkey Swap: Use leftover turkey for a delicious post-holiday spin, packing in festive flavors.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use vegan biscuit dough for a tasty plant-based version.
Extra Veggies: Add chopped green beans, corn, or bell peppers to the mix for a colorful, nutrient-packed meal.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a vibrant flavor boost that brightens the whole dish.
Spicy Kick: For heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños, turning this cozy meal into a spicy treat.
Cheese Lovers: Stir in shredded cheese halfway through cooking for a creamy twist that elevates the comfort factor.
Dumpling Variety: Experiment with homemade dumplings by mixing in herbs and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Coconut Cream Twist: Replace the cream of chicken soup with coconut cream for a rich, exotic flavor profile that blends beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken and broth mixture (without the dumplings) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the chicken, soups, and vegetables in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, just add the dumplings and set your slow cooker to high for an additional hour. This helps maintain the dish’s creamy texture and ensures the dumplings rise beautifully. For optimal flavor, be sure to store everything in an airtight container and assemble just before cooking!

What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

As your sumptuous Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings bubble away, imagine the delightful accompaniments that will elevate your family meal to new heights.

Crispy Green Salad: A light, crunchy salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dumplings, brightening up your plate. Toss with a tangy vinaigrette for an extra zing!
Crusty Bread: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that rich broth, making every bite utterly satisfying. Serve it alongside for a classic comforting touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring depth and color to your table, complementing the dish’s warmth with their caramelized sweetness. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash are great options.
Herbed Rice: A fluffy bed of herbed rice offers a nutty flavor that pairs effortlessly with the creamy chicken stew. Infuse it with fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness.
Savory Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread is a delightful companion, absorbing the flavorful broth while adding a slightly sweet taste that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Applesauce: A sweetened applesauce or spiced apple compote can provide contrast, offering a fruity, tart flavor that balances the richness of the dumplings.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Pair your meal with a refreshing beverage like homemade lemonade or iced tea, both of which cut through the richness and enhance the overall experience.

Each of these pairings brings its unique charm to accompany your comforting Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, ensuring a meal that warms both the heart and the home.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for their rich flavor, but chicken breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat. Look for fresh, plump pieces with no dark spots. Always check the sell-by date to ensure maximum freshness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your leftover Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it creamy!

Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze, I suggest omitting the dumplings before freezing and only adding them when you reheat. Pour the chicken mixture into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then cook fresh dumplings as outlined in the recipe.

What if my dumplings aren’t fluffy enough?
Very! If your dumplings turn out dense, they may have been stirred too much or not cooked long enough. Always make sure to drop the biscuit pieces on top without stirring them in too much. Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain steam, which helps them puff up perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about gluten, you can easily swap the refrigerated biscuit dough for a gluten-free version available at most grocery stores. Additionally, if you need to accommodate allergies, be sure to check the ingredients in the cream soups and broths for any potential allergens.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
You bet! The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like corn, green beans, or even diced potatoes. Just be mindful of cooking times; denser veggies like potatoes may need to be added earlier in the process to ensure everything is cooked through.

Enjoy creating this comforting and delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe!