Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a bowl of comfort food that feels like a warm hug, then this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is just what you need. With tender chunks of chicken simmered in a rich, savory broth and topped with fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal perfect for cozy family dinners. The slow cooker does all the hard work, turning an ordinary weeknight into a deliciously stress-free experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort: The slow cooker handles everything, allowing flavors to develop beautifully with minimal prep.
• Hearty and Filling: A complete meal with tender chicken, creamy broth, and pillowy dumplings that satisfy hunger wonderfully.
• Family Friendly: Crowd-pleasing flavors that even picky eaters adore, making it perfect for all ages.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.
• Great Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, ideal for meal prepping or busy schedules.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it requires simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each component contributes to the taste, texture, and color to make this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings extra special.

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for tender pieces that absorb the flavorful broth.
• Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, giving it rich, comforting depth.
• Carrots and Celery: Classic vegetables that add natural sweetness and crunch.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics for a savory foundation.
• Flour: Thickens the broth and forms the dumplings, giving them a perfect light texture.
• Buttermilk or Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the dumplings.
• Baking Powder: Helps the dumplings rise and stay fluffy.
• Butter: Adds richness to both the broth and dumplings.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional parsley or thyme to brighten flavors and add freshness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of dried herbs to round out the flavors.

Variations for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

One of the best things about this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is how easily you can make it your own. Swap, add, or omit ingredients to play with different flavors or to accommodate dietary needs.

• Vegetable Boost: Add peas, corn, or green beans in the last 30 minutes for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick without overpowering.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free baking powder to keep it safe and delicious.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
• Herb Swap: Switch parsley and thyme for rosemary or sage to add earthier flavors.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by chopping carrots, celery, onions, and garlic into bite-sized pieces. Cut the chicken into chunks or leave whole if you prefer shredding later. This prep ensures everything cooks evenly.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Place vegetables, chicken broth, chicken pieces, and seasonings in the crockpot. Stir gently to combine, creating a flavorful broth that will cook low and slow.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and infuses the broth with rich flavor from the ingredients.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the broth is nearing completion, mix flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and buttermilk into a soft dough. This mixture will form the dumplings that cook right on top of the simmering broth.

Step 5: Add Dumplings and Finish Cooking

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the surface of the hot broth in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes until dumplings are puffed and tender.

Step 6: Shred Chicken and Serve

Remove any whole chicken pieces to shred with forks, then stir back into the broth. Taste and adjust seasoning before ladling hot Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings into bowls.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

• Use Thighs for Moisture: Chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during slow cooking than breasts.
• Don’t Peek Too Often: Frequent lid opening lowers temperature and extends cooking time.
• Drop Dumplings Gently: Use a spoon or small ice cream scoop for dumpling size consistency, helping them cook evenly.
• Thicken Gradually: If broth seems too thin before adding dumplings, a little cornstarch slurry can boost thickness.
• Herbs at the End: Fresh herbs added just before serving keep the flavors bright and vibrant.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the top to add a pop of green color and a burst of fragrant herbaceous flavor that balances the rich broth.

Side Dishes

This meal pairs beautifully with crisp green salads for freshness or a side of roasted vegetables to round out the dinner plate without overwhelming the creamy dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls with crusty bread on the side for dipping; for a fun twist, top with a handful of crunchy fried onions or shredded cheese to add extra texture and flavor layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days—it tastes even better as the flavors meld together.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well without losing texture; store portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months, making busy days effortless.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving too long to keep dumplings tender.

FAQs

Can I use canned biscuits instead of dumplings?

Yes, canned biscuit dough can be torn into pieces and added during the final cooking stage for a quicker alternative, though traditional dumplings offer a lighter texture.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk in the dumplings?

Buttermilk adds tenderness and slight tang, but you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar if needed.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or beans and use vegetable broth to create a satisfying vegetarian version.

How long can I leave the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings on warm?

It’s best to keep it on warm for no longer than 1-2 hours to prevent the dumplings from becoming dense or overcooked.

What’s the best way to prevent dumplings from sticking together?

Drop spoonfuls spaced apart gently and avoid stirring after adding dumplings to keep them separate and fluffy as they cook.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a true game-changer when it comes to cozy, fuss-free dinners. It combines simple ingredients, hands-off cooking, and comfort-food magic that feels homemade without the hassle. I encourage you to try it soon and discover why this classic dish remains a favorite in so many homes, bringing warmth and smiles to the dinner table every time.

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