Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings Recipe

There's nothing like coming home to the comforting aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings after a long day. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful broth come together in this cozy, family-friendly meal.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with this recipe during a chilly winter when I needed something hearty but effortless to prepare. Since then, it's been a staple in my household – a one-pot wonder that everyone loves! Let's dive into why you'll adore this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Get ready to meet your go-to comfort food recipe. Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a dream come true for busy days, lazy weekends, or anytime you need a warm, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

First, it's ridiculously easy to make. Just toss your ingredients into the crockpot, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. With minimal prep and only one pot to clean, it's the ultimate hassle-free dinner.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. Use your favorite veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste – it's a recipe that adapts beautifully to your pantry staples.

And let's not forget the flavor factor! The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the dumplings soak up all the delicious broth for an irresistible bite every time.

Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy the next day, this recipe is guaranteed to please. Ready to start cooking? Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need and why each one is essential to this comforting dish.

• Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean texture, but chicken thighs work just as well, adding a slightly richer flavor. You can even use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Vegetables: Classic choices like carrots, celery, and onion create the perfect base for the broth. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding mushrooms or peas for extra texture.
• Chicken broth: A rich, flavorful broth is key to this dish. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness.
• Cream of chicken soup: This is what gives the dish its signature creamy texture. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or even a homemade roux if you prefer.
• Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, thyme, and parsley brings out the best in the chicken and broth. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
• Dumplings: Store-bought refrigerated biscuit dough is a lifesaver for busy cooks. Simply cut it into pieces and let the crockpot do the rest. Want to go the extra mile? You can make homemade dumplings from scratch.

You won’t need any special equipment for this recipe – just a trusty crockpot and a sharp knife for chopping your veggies.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Making Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a delicious meal waiting for you with minimal effort.

1. Prep Your Ingredients
   Start by chopping your carrots, celery, and onion into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend perfectly with the broth.
2. Layer in the Crockpot
   Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Top them with the chopped vegetables, followed by the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings.
3. Cook on Low
   Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours). The slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful.
4. Add the Dumplings
   About 1 hour before serving, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Then, cut the biscuit dough into bite-sized pieces and drop them into the crockpot. Stir gently to ensure they're coated in the broth.
5. Finish Cooking
   Continue cooking on high for an additional hour, or until the dumplings are fully cooked and fluffy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle the chicken, dumplings, and vegetables into bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezer: While the dumplings may change texture slightly, you can freeze the chicken and broth for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro tip: To keep the dumplings from getting soggy, freeze them separately and add them during reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

1. Vegetarian Version
   Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with a mix of hearty vegetables like potatoes, mushrooms, and zucchini.
2. Spicy Kick
   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.
3. Herby Twist
   Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a more fragrant flavor profile.
4. Gluten-Free Option
   Use gluten-free biscuit dough or make homemade dumplings with gluten-free flour.
5. Creamy Upgrade
   Swap the cream of chicken soup with a mix of heavy cream and shredded cheddar for an extra indulgent twist.

Final Thoughts

Comfort food doesn’t get any better than this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe. It's easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just want a stress-free dinner, this dish is sure to hit the spot.

Why not give it a try tonight? Let your crockpot do the work, and enjoy the delicious rewards!

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