As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, combining tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a savory broth that fills the house with an irresistible aroma. It’s the perfect solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this cozy meal will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in the crockpot and forget about it until dinner time. The rich, comforting flavors will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze! You’ll love how this dish brings everyone together around the table, creating warm memories without the stress.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delightful Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! They cook up tender and juicy, making them perfect for shredding.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds a rich, creamy base to the broth, enhancing the overall flavor.
Chicken broth: A must for that savory depth. You can use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt.
Frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient and colorful! Feel free to swap in your family’s favorites, like peas or carrots.
Onion powder: A quick way to add a hint of sweetness and depth without chopping onions.
Garlic powder: This brings a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that adds an earthy note, making the dish feel even cozier.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
Refrigerated biscuit dough: These fluffy dumplings are the crowning glory! They soak up the broth and add a delightful texture.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cozy dinner waiting for you!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re evenly spaced for even cooking. When selecting chicken, look for breasts that are plump and fresh. This will ensure they stay juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and all the seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended. This mixture will create a rich, savory sauce that will infuse the chicken and vegetables with flavor.

Step 3: Combine in the Crockpot

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well coated. Cover the crockpot with its lid. This is crucial! Keeping it covered helps trap the heat and moisture, ensuring your chicken cooks perfectly.

Step 4: Cooking Time

Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and easily shreds with a fork. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting works wonders, but I often prefer low for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 5: Add the Dumplings

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take the refrigerated biscuit dough and cut it into quarters. Gently add the dumplings to the crockpot, spreading them evenly over the top. Cover again and let them cook until they’re fluffy and cooked through. This is when the magic happens!

Step 6: Shred and Serve

Once the dumplings are ready, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir everything together, mixing the dumplings with the chicken and broth. This step is essential for that comforting, homestyle feel. Serve hot, and watch your family dig in!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s key to a delicious broth.
Experiment with different vegetables for variety.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.

Equipment Needed

Crockpot: The star of the show! A slow cooker is essential for this recipe.
Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients. A large bowl works best.
Measuring cups: Handy for accurate ingredient portions.
Forks: Perfect for shredding the chicken at the end.

Variations of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a burst of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based meal.
Cheesy Dumplings: Mix shredded cheese into the biscuit dough for a cheesy surprise in every bite.
Low-Carb Version: Replace dumplings with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Herbal Tea: A cup of herbal tea complements the cozy flavors beautifully.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

As you embark on your culinary journey with Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you:

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. Just remember to extend the cooking time by about an hour to ensure they cook through.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer a healthier option, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a can of cream of mushroom soup. Both will work beautifully in this recipe!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crockpot in the morning, and you’ll have a warm dinner waiting for you.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just add fresh dumplings when reheating!

What sides pair well with this dish?

For a complete meal, consider serving a fresh salad or some crusty bread. They complement the rich flavors of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings perfectly!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace after a long day. The aroma wafting through your home creates a sense of warmth and togetherness, inviting everyone to gather around the table. I love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty feast that brings smiles and satisfied bellies. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is a reliable companion. I hope it becomes a cherished part of your family’s dinner traditions, just as it has in mine!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: A Cozy Dinner Delight!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory broth, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (biscuits) refrigerated biscuit dough

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
About 30 minutes before serving, cut the biscuit dough into quarters and add to the crockpot.
Cover and cook until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together before serving.

Notes

For a thicker broth, you can add a cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking.
Feel free to substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorites.
This dish can be frozen for later use; just reheat and add fresh dumplings when ready to serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Slow Cooker Recipe