As the autumn leaves begin to swirl and a chill settles in the air, there’s nothing quite like the smell of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings wafting through my kitchen. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, with tender chicken mingling with vibrant vegetables and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth. This recipe is not only super easy to prepare—just toss everything in your crockpot and let it work its magic—but it’s also gluten-free, making it a comforting weeknight meal for everyone at the table. Imagine coming home after a long day to find dinner ready and waiting, enveloped in rich, heartwarming flavors. What variations will you try to make it your own?
Why is Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Irresistible?
Ease of Preparation: You’ll absolutely love how simple it is—just set it and forget it while the crockpot does the hard work!
Comfort in Every Bite: The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy dumplings makes for an unforgettable taste experience.
Gluten-Free Goodness: This recipe allows everyone to indulge without worry, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Endless Variations: Whether you add extra veggies or spice it up, the possibilities are endless!
Hearty Satisfaction: This dish is more than a meal; it’s a soul-warming comfort food that brings joy around the dinner table.
Pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal or try serving alongside our Sweet Savory Chicken for a delightful twist on chicken dishes.
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting classic!
For the Chicken Base
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This tender chicken is perfect for shredding once cooked; use frozen chicken if that’s your go-to!
• Chicken Broth – Acts as the flavorful base; ensure it’s gluten-free for dietary needs.
• Diced Onion – Adds a sweet, rich depth; shallots offer a nice, milder alternative if preferred.
• Sliced Carrots – These bring sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with corn or green beans for a new twist.
• Sliced Celery – Offers a fresh crunch; it’s optional if you want to streamline the ingredients.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; fresh garlic is the best, but garlic powder works too!
For the Seasoning
• Dried Thyme – A classic herb pairing with chicken; fresh thyme can elevate the dish further.
• Dried Parsley – For a pop of color and subtle flavor; you can skip it if you’re short on time.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Add these essential seasonings according to your taste preference.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Frozen Peas – They add a nice color and texture; feel free to swap for green beans if desired.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – This adds a rich creaminess; using cream of mushroom offers a lighter option.
• Milk – Enhances the dish’s creaminess; plant-based milk works wonders for dairy-free styles.
For the Dumplings
• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – This creates those iconic fluffy dumplings; make sure it’s gluten-free if needed!
These Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting meal for your family, making weeknight dinners a delightful experience.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Base
Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the heart of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, so ensure they are positioned flat for even cooking.
Step 2: Add Broth and Vegetables
Next, pour in the chicken broth until it fully covers the chicken. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery along with minced garlic. This colorful mix will infuse the broth with flavors as they cook together.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper for seasoning. Gently stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and veggies are well coated with those aromatic spices. This step is essential for ensuring your dish is flavorful from the start.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
Now, cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should become tender and easily shreddable, and the vegetables will soften beautifully in the creamy broth during this cooking time.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded meat back into the pot. This will enhance the comforting texture of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.
Step 6: Stir in Creamy Ingredients
Next, add in the frozen peas, cream of chicken soup, and milk to the mixture. Stir gently to combine, allowing them to merge into the broth. Let this simmer on high for an additional 5-10 minutes, until heated through and creamy.
Step 7: Prepare the Dumplings
While the mixture is heating, take the refrigerated biscuit dough and cut it into quarters. Drop these pieces evenly over the bubbling chicken mixture in the crockpot. This will create delightfully fluffy dumplings that will soak up all those savory flavors.
Step 8: Cook the Dumplings
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know the dumplings are ready when they have puffed up and turned golden. This final touch is what makes your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings a truly comforting dish!
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish with these delightful twists, ensuring every bite is uniquely yours!
- Extra Veggies: Add sweet corn, diced potatoes, or green beans for a colorful, nutritious boost. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in more goodness!
- Turkey Alternative: Swap shredded chicken for turkey for a deliciously different flavor that’s perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Vegan Version: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use coconut milk instead of cream of chicken for a scrumptious dairy-free delight. This alternative keeps the comforting essence intact!
- Herb Variations: Use rosemary or oregano to add a fragrant twist. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, providing a lovely aromatic experience that fills the kitchen.
- Spicy Kick: Spice things up with red pepper flakes or jalapeños to add a zesty warmth to your meal. This twist can transform comforting chicken and dumplings into a lively feast!
- Dumpling Swaps: Go for homemade dumplings instead of refrigerated ones for a more artisanal touch. They offer a unique flavor and texture that truly elevates the dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a richer, creamier finish that’ll delight cheese lovers. The gooeyness adds a whole new layer of indulgence.
For more variations, check out our comforting Chicken Salad Dish or explore new flavors with our Rotisserie Chicken Tacos. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Prep Ahead: Prepare your ingredients in advance to save time and ensure smooth cooking.
Fluffy Dumplings: Avoid overcrowding the dumplings in the pot, as this helps maintain their fluffy texture.
Check Tenderness: If your chicken isn’t shredding easily, it may need more cooking time.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh.
Creaminess Control: If the broth seems too thick, gradually add a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
What to Serve With Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
As you savor the rich, creamy goodness of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes to create a complete meal.
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Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies balances the creamy richness, adding crispness with each bite.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping into the savory broth, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal vegetables roasted to a golden perfection bring a sweet contrast, adding hearty, caramelized texture to your plate.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For extra comfort, serve with fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes topped with shredded herbs, complementing the warm dish beautifully.
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Cornbread Muffins: A sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs wonderfully, offering a texture contrast and absorbing the delicious broth.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled, crisp white wine can lighten the meal, adding a refreshing touch to the comforting flavors.
These sides will elevate your dinner experience, making every bite of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and store the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and garlic) in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, keeping them fresh in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the chicken breasts and refrigerate them overnight for optimal flavor. Just remember to combine the broth, chicken, and prepped veggies in the crockpot in the morning; set it to cook while you tackle your busy day. When you’re ready to finish and serve, simply shred the chicken, stir in the creamy ingredients, and prepare the dumplings as directed. This approach allows you to savor a delicious, comforting meal with minimal evening effort!
Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s sealed tightly to maintain flavor and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn, making it easy to enjoy later.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore the creamy texture of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate (without the dumplings) for up to 24 hours before cooking for a quick weeknight meal!
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! Using boneless skinless chicken breasts is ideal because they become tender and easy to shred during cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, you’ll want to extend your cooking time by an hour to ensure thorough cooking.
How long can I store leftovers of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
You can store your delicious leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to preserve the flavors and maintain freshness.
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze it! Simply place the cooled dish in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creaminess.
What if my dumplings turn out dense?
If you encounter dense dumplings, it could be due to overmixing the dough or overcrowding them in the crockpot. To avoid this, gently mix the biscuit dough only until combined and space them apart in the pot. Cooking time can also affect the texture, so ensure that they cook for the full 30-40 minutes on high.
Is this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very! To ensure the dish is gluten-free, use gluten-free chicken broth and check that the refrigerated biscuit dough is certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the comfort of this classic dish without worries!
How do I make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings dairy-free?
You can absolutely make it dairy-free! Replace the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free substitute, like a vegan cream of mushroom soup, and use plant-based milk instead for a perfectly creamy texture.
Cozy Up with Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for Dinner Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth until it fully covers the chicken. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery along with minced garlic.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Gently stir everything together.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add in the frozen peas, cream of chicken soup, and milk to the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters and drop the pieces over the bubbling chicken mixture.
- Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for 30-40 minutes until the dumplings have puffed up and turned golden.