Name: Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings You'll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Substitute with bone-in chicken for added flavor.); 2 cups chicken broth (Low-sodium options can help manage salt intake.); 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (Use homemade or gluten-free if needed.); 1 medium onion, chopped (Can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.); 2 stalks celery, chopped (Optional, can be omitted.); 1.5 cups frozen peas (Fresh peas work beautifully during their season!); 2 cups biscuit mix (like Bisquick) (Substitute with homemade biscuit dough if desired.); 0.75 cup milk (Non-dairy alternatives also work well.); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Fresh garlic can be substituted for a fresher taste.); 1 teaspoon onion powder (Complements and enhances overall flavor.); Salt and pepper (To taste.); Fresh parsley (For garnish (optional).)

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When the chilly evenings roll in and the leaves begin to change, nothing beckons quite like the mouthwatering aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings wafting through the house. Picture this: you come home after a long day, and waiting for you is a warm, comforting bowl of this classic dish. It’s not just food; it’s a cozy hug that wraps around you, made simple with just a few ingredients and loved ones gathered around the table.

This easy recipe takes the fuss out of cooking—set it, forget it, and let the magic happen. Tender chicken swimming in a creamy broth with fluffy dumplings takes just a few hours to come together, turning weeknight dinners into heartwarming experiences. Whether you’re looking for comfort food on a cold night or a way to impress family and friends, this dish delivers warmth and flavor in every delightful bite. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why is Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings a Must-Try?

Ultimate Comfort: Nothing beats the warmth of this dish, with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings bringing a sense of home to your dinner table.

Hands-off Cooking: Simply toss in your ingredients, set your crockpot, and go about your day!

Hearty and Creamy: The rich broth envelops every bite, creating an indulgent taste that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Versatile Ingredients: Adjust the recipe with your favorite veggies or spices, catering to your personal preference.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends, everyone will be asking for seconds!

For tips on customizing your meal, don’t miss my suggestions on delicious flavor enhancements!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Main protein; substitute with bone-in chicken for added flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Adds moisture and depth; low-sodium options can help manage salt intake.
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup – Serves as a creamy base; use homemade or gluten-free cream of chicken soup if needed.

For the Vegetables
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Provides aromatic flavor; can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
• 2 carrots, sliced – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with parsnips for a twist.
• 2 stalks celery, chopped – Enhances flavor with a slight crunch; optional, can be omitted.
• 1½ cups frozen peas – Add color and sweetness; fresh peas work beautifully during their season!

For the Dumplings
• 2 cups biscuit mix (like Bisquick) – Creates fluffy dumplings; substitute with homemade biscuit dough to customize flavors.
• ¾ cup milk – Wet ingredient for dumpling mixture; non-dairy alternatives also work well.

For Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic can be substituted for a fresher taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements and enhances overall flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasoning to elevate flavors; adjust according to your preference.

For Garnish
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) – Adds a fresh touch for presentation, making your dish even more inviting!

Dive into this comforting dish that’s bound to warm your heart, featuring everything you need for the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings experience!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless chicken in your crockpot, ensuring it lays flat for even cooking. This forms the hearty base of your dish.
Add Broth and Soup: Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated to develop a rich, creamy flavor as it cooks.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery into the mix. These aromatic additions will infuse the broth with delightful taste and texture.
Season: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture, enhancing the dish’s flavor. Feel free to adjust these seasonings to match your taste preferences.
Cook: Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred when it’s ready.
Shred Chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Stir it back into the creamy broth for a hearty mix.
Prepare Dumplings: In a separate bowl, mix the biscuit mix and milk until just combined. Avoid over-mixing for fluffy dumplings!
Add Dumplings: Gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the surface of the chicken mixture in the crockpot. This will create delightful pillows of goodness.
Finish Cooking: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through. They should be light and airy!
Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last few minutes and let them heat through. This adds a burst of color and sweetness just before serving.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness on top of your warm dish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. This not only saves you precious time on busy weeknights but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the prepped ingredients to your crockpot with the broth and cream of chicken soup, then let it do its magic. The dumplings can be mixed and added just 30 minutes before serving, ensuring they are fluffy and delicious. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a warm meal waiting for you!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish—there’s something enjoyable about personalizing it with your own favorite flavors!

Turkey Twist: Substitute chicken with turkey for a delightful post-holiday spin, perfect for using up leftovers.
Veggie Delight: Add in colorful veggies like corn or green beans for added nutrition, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
Spicy Kick: Elevate the heat by stirring in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, giving a gentle warmth to every spoonful.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to infuse an aromatic depth that elevates the whole dish.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap the cream of chicken soup and milk for coconut milk and a dairy-free cream soup to keep it creamy without the dairy.
Pasta Substitute: Throw in some cooked egg noodles instead of dumplings for a comforting pasta option that’ll absorb all the delicious flavors.
Bisquick Alternatives: Use homemade biscuit dough in place of the biscuit mix for customized flavors, such as cheddar or garlic.
Savory Mushroom Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms to the mix for an earthy twist that complements the creaminess and adds another layer of texture.

Let your taste buds guide you—mix and match these variations for a dish that’s uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the crockpot isn’t packed too tight; this allows even cooking and fluffy dumplings.
Test for Tenderness: Always check that the chicken is fully tender before shredding; it should fall apart easily with a fork.
Gently Mix Dumplings: Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough; a few lumps will create the best texture for light, fluffy dumplings.
Herb Enhancements: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for wonderful flavor depth in your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.
Adjust Consistency: If the broth seems too thick after cooking, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth before serving.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it down to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture and creaminess while warming.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure an even temperature throughout the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?

Imagine enjoying a warm, hearty meal that perfectly complements the indulgent flavors of this beloved comfort dish.

Crusty Bread: Slices of warm, crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth and adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Garden Salad: A light, refreshing garden salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette elevates the meal with freshness that balances the richness of the dumplings.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green vegetable option that adds fiber and nutrients, enhancing the meal’s health profile.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, potatoes, and zucchini offers caramelized sweetness that complements the savory chicken and creamy dumplings beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add another layer of warmth and comfort, perfect for those who can’t resist a hearty plate.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, an apple crisp with cinnamon adds a touch of sweetness and warmth, rounding out the meal with a nostalgic homey flair.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine can enhance the flavors of the chicken while providing a nice contrast to the dish’s creaminess, making your dinner a truly memorable experience.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness. If you want even richer flavor, go for bone-in chicken parts, but remember to remove the bones after cooking!

How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them down to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best quality.

Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to label them with the date. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if the dumplings are dense or not cooking through?
Very! If your dumplings turn out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. For the perfect fluffy dumplings, mix just until combined and leave some lumps; they’ll cook through beautifully. If they still seem undercooked after the designated time, cover and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for pets, avoid giving them any chicken that has been seasoned with salt or other spices. For allergies, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade or gluten-free versions, and replace the milk with non-dairy alternatives if needed. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens.

How do I know if my chicken is fully cooked?
To check if the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, the chicken should be easily shreddable with forks when done. If it feels tough or still pink, give it a little more time in the crockpot!