Best Ever Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings– The Ultimate Comfort Food
When it comes to cozy dinners that warm both the stomach and the soul, Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings stands at the very top of the list. It is creamy, hearty, and filled with tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings that soak up all the rich flavors of the broth. The slow cooker takes care of most of the work, making this recipe not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for busy families.
This recipe is often described as “like a hug in a bowl.” Whether you grew up eating a homemade version from your grandmother or you’re just discovering it now, one thing is certain: once you make this dish, it will quickly become a family favorite.
Why Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings Are So Popular
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker lets you prepare the base in the morning, set it, and come back to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner.
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish combines chicken, creamy sauce, and dumplings—a trio that never disappoints.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients that are easy to find.
- Adaptable: Can be customized with extra veggies, different herbs, or homemade dumplings.
Ingredients for Best Ever Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this dish at home:
- Chicken: 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
- Vegetables: 1 onion (diced), 3 carrots (sliced), 3 celery stalks (chopped)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon salt
- Soup Base: 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- Liquid: 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (optional, for richness)
- Frozen peas: 1 cup, for freshness and color
- Dumplings: 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade dumpling dough)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Layer chicken breasts in the crock pot. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and all dried seasonings. Pour cream of chicken soup and broth on top. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and the broth to develop rich flavor.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove chicken pieces and shred them with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the crock pot and mix well.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
Cut biscuit dough into 1-inch pieces. Drop gently into the crock pot, stirring lightly to prevent clumping. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour until dumplings are fluffy and fully cooked.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Ten minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t open the lid too often – It releases heat and slows down cooking, especially when dumplings are cooking.
- Make broth creamier – Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving.
- For thicker broth – Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the pot 30 minutes before serving.
- Use thighs for juicier chicken – They add more depth and flavor compared to breasts.
Variations
- Homemade Dumplings: Replace biscuit dough with a mix of flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk.
- Vegetable Boost: Add green beans, corn, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the broth.
- Lighter Version: Use reduced-fat cream soup or make your own with milk and flour.
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings
Although this dish is filling on its own, you can pair it with:
- A crisp green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Homemade cornbread or crusty bread
- A glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the chicken and broth (without dumplings) for up to 2 months. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you must increase the cooking time and make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I make this without canned soup?
Yes! Replace cream of chicken soup with a homemade roux (butter, flour, and milk or broth) for a fresher taste.
3. How do I know when dumplings are done?
They should be fluffy, not doughy, and should no longer look raw in the center.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but make sure your crock pot is large enough. Dumplings may need a little extra time if the pot is crowded.
Final Thoughts
This Best Ever Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a complete comfort experience. It’s simple, affordable, and the slow cooker makes it nearly foolproof. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight, hosting friends for a casual dinner, or simply craving something cozy, this recipe will never disappoint.