Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of comfort food, and Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings truly delivers! Imagine tender, shredded chicken swimming in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with fluffy, pillowy dumplings. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave something deeply satisfying and heartwarming.

The best part? This beloved classic is incredibly easy to make thanks to your slow cooker. You’ll spend minimal time on prep, then let your crockpot do all the heavy lifting. It cooks slowly to perfection, infusing every bite with incredible flavor without you having to stand over a stove. It’s a true “set it and forget it” meal that yields amazing results.

So, get ready to transform simple ingredients into a meal your whole family will adore. This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Cooking Time & Prep Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3.5 hours on HIGH or 7 hours on LOW
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours (on HIGH)

Small tip: To save even more time, you can chop your vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes morning prep a breeze!

Ingredients

This recipe makes 8 generous servings.

For the Chicken & Base

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (condensed)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup (condensed)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried poultry seasoning
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

   Start by placing the raw chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Scatter the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic over the chicken. These vegetables will add wonderful flavor and texture to your dish.

   Small tip: Cut your vegetables into roughly 1/2-inch pieces so they cook evenly and become tender.

2. Combine the Soup and Seasonings

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth. This creamy mixture will form the rich base of your dish. It’s important to whisk it thoroughly to avoid lumps.

3. Add to Crockpot and Cook

   Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on HIGH for 3 hours or on LOW for 6 hours. The chicken should be fork-tender and easy to shred.

   Small tip: Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, especially in the first few hours. Each time you peek, heat escapes and adds about 20-30 minutes to your cooking time.

4. Shred the Chicken

   Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the creamy mixture. If using, stir in the frozen peas now.

5. Prepare the Dumpling Dough

   While the chicken is being shredded, prepare your dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix the dough.

   Small tip: Cold butter is key for tender, flaky dumplings. If your butter gets too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

6. Add Dumplings to Crockpot

   Drop the dumpling dough by rounded spoonfuls directly onto the hot chicken mixture in the slow cooker. You can make them as small or as large as you like. Make sure the dumplings are mostly sitting on top of the liquid, not submerged.

7. Finish Cooking and Serve

   Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through, fluffy, and have expanded. They should be firm to the touch. Once done, give everything a gentle stir. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

   Small tip: If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it with a little extra chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Tips & Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings. Be sure to check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
• Vegan/Vegetarian Option: This recipe can be adapted! Use plant-based “chicken” pieces or extra hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and corn. Substitute the cream soups with condensed vegan cream of mushroom or celery soup, and use vegetable broth. For the dumplings, use a plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter alternative.
• Add More Vegetables or Protein: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like frozen corn, green beans, or a handful of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also use leftover cooked turkey instead of raw chicken for an even quicker meal.
• Spicy Version: For a little kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings. A dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred in at the end can also add a pleasant warmth.
• Herb Boost: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs! A sprig of fresh rosemary or a few sprigs of fresh thyme can be added to the slow cooker with the chicken and removed before serving. Fresh dill also pairs wonderfully with chicken and dumplings.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 18 g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and exact quantities of ingredients used.

Health Benefits

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings offers more than just comfort; it brings some great health benefits too!

• Lean Protein Power: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle growth. It also provides important B vitamins like Niacin and B6, and minerals like Selenium.
• Vitamins and Fiber from Veggies: Carrots are packed with Vitamin A, vital for vision and immune function. Celery offers Vitamin K and fiber, aiding digestion. Onions contribute antioxidants and Vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
• Hydration and Minerals from Broth: Chicken broth contributes to hydration and contains minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium. It can also be soothing for digestion.
• Balanced Meal: This dish combines protein, carbohydrates (from dumplings and vegetables), and healthy fats, providing a well-rounded and satisfying meal that keeps you feeling full and energized.
• Hearty and Wholesome: Made with fresh ingredients and cooked slowly, this dish is a wholesome alternative to fast food, providing nutrients without excessive processing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this hearty dish with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness beautifully.
• A side of warm, crusty bread or cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious creamy sauce.
• This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a complete meal on its own! It’s satisfying enough to be the main course for any family dinner.
• For meal prep, portion individual servings into airtight containers. It makes for a wonderful, ready-to-heat lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Storage Tips

Leftovers of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings store wonderfully! In the refrigerator, they will keep well in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for longer storage, up to 3 months. Be aware that the texture of the dumplings might change slightly after freezing and reheating, becoming a bit softer. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has become too thick.

Conclusion

There you have it – a truly magnificent Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and incredible flavor to your table with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for those busy days when you need something hearty and delicious without the fuss. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft dumplings create a symphony of textures and tastes that everyone will adore.

Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try. Your crockpot will do all the hard work, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen. It’s a classic for a reason, and once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish.

So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to create a memorable meal. This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is sure to become a cherished family favorite, bringing smiles and full bellies to all who share it. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!