Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

If you’re craving a heartwarming, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy dumplings all simmered to perfection right in your crockpot. It’s fuss-free, flavorful, and perfect for those who love a classic comfort food without the stress of standing over the stove for hours. Plus, it’s the perfect recipe to come home to after a busy day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this recipe are straightforward and super accessible, each playing a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. From the rich chicken broth to the fresh veggies and fluffy dumplings, every element contributes to the cozy charm of this meal.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein of the dish, providing tender, juicy bites once shredded.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Creates a savory, flavorful base for the stew.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy richness and thickness without extra effort.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 3 medium carrots, sliced: Brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a pleasant crunch and herbal undertone.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Gives an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the chicken.
• 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds a fresh, mild herbal note.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional): Adds a pop of sweetness and color.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Enriches the broth for a luscious finish.
• For the dumplings:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for light, fluffy dumplings.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise as they cook.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the dumplings’ flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the dough for the perfect texture.
• 2 tbsp melted butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the dumplings.

How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Veggies

Start by placing the chicken breasts right into the crockpot. Then add the diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic on top. This layer of fresh vegetables creates the flavorful base that will infuse the entire dish with wholesome goodness.

Step 2: Add Broth and Soup

Next, pour in the chicken broth along with the cream of chicken soup. Gently stir everything together so the soup starts to dissolve into the broth and coats the veggies and chicken. Sprinkle in your thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper, which bring subtle herbal aromas to the stew. This mixture will build that deeply satisfying, soul-warming flavor.

Step 3: Cooking Time

Cover your crockpot and let it work its magic. Choose the low setting for about 6-7 hours if you have time; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and tenderizes the chicken until it’s falling-apart soft. If you’re short on time, the high setting for 3-4 hours does the trick just as well. Whichever you choose, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma as everything simmers together.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once your crockpot beeps, carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts. Take two forks and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces—this is the moment the dish truly comes together. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot, mixing it into the rich broth and veggies for a hearty, satisfying texture.

Step 5: Add Cream and Peas

Stir the frozen peas into the stew if you like a little extra color and sweetness. Then pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to transform your broth into a velvety, luscious sauce. Mixing well ensures every spoonful is indulgently creamy and comforting.

Step 6: Make the Dumplings

While you’re waiting for the mixture to heat back up, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Pour in the milk and melted butter, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix; a slightly lumpy batter will yield the best light and fluffy dumplings.

Step 7: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of batter carefully over the hot chicken mixture in your crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 30-40 minutes. It’s tempting to peek, but letting the dumplings cook undisturbed helps them rise evenly and stay moist and tender.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once those dumplings are perfectly cooked and fluffy, your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is ready to be devoured. Scoop generous portions into bowls and get ready to experience cozy comfort food at its absolute best!

How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few twists of cracked black pepper on top of your bowl brightens the flavors and adds a touch of freshness. For a little extra indulgence, a pat of butter melted over the warm dumplings will add a silky richness that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to be the star of the meal, but if you want to round it out, a simple crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts with a squeeze of lemon works beautifully. Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, serve the chicken and dumplings in rustic ceramic bowls that hold all the cozy goodness. You can also ladle the stew into hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun twist. Garnishing with a sprig of thyme or a light dusting of smoked paprika adds a little visual flair that elevates this homey dish to something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and dumplings taste fantastic the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen even more overnight, making it a wonderful meal to look forward to.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that dumplings might change texture slightly after freezing and reheating. For best results, freeze the chicken and broth mixture separately from the dumplings. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the texture if needed. Microwaving works too—just cover and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking the dumplings.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, which is great in slow-cooked recipes like this one. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if your thighs are bone-in.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings and double-check that your cream of chicken soup and broth are gluten-free. This way you can still enjoy the same comforting flavors.

Can I make the dumplings vegan or dairy-free?

For a dairy-free or vegan version, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based milk like coconut or oat milk, and use a non-dairy butter substitute. For the dumplings, use a vegan milk and butter substitute to keep things fluffy and delicious.

What if I don’t have a crockpot?

No worries! You can make this recipe on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven. Simmer the chicken and veggies until tender, then cook the dumplings on top of the stew until done.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Green beans, corn, or mushrooms work well. Just add any additional veggies early in the cooking process so they become tender alongside the chicken.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of indulging in a bowl of homemade comfort, and this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe delivers exactly that with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a cozy classic that never fails to satisfy. Give it a try, and let this warm, creamy dish bring a little extra joy to your dinner table.

Print