Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings: 1 Amazing Comfort Meal

Slow cooker chicken dumplings have become my absolute go-to for those nights when I crave pure comfort food but don’t have a ton of time. I remember my grandma making chicken and dumplings from scratch, and while hers was amazing, this slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeks. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it simmers – that savory chicken, creamy broth, and the promise of fluffy dumplings – is just irresistible. It’s a truly heartwarming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, and I can’t wait for you to try this incredibly easy slow cooker chicken dumplings version. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

• The flavor is incredibly rich and comforting, making it a true taste of home.
• It’s a budget-friendly meal, perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
• Prep time is minimal, letting you get dinner started quickly.
• This crock pot chicken and dumplings recipe is a winner with picky eaters.
• It’s a complete meal in one pot, meaning less cleanup for you.
• Enjoy the ease of a crock pot chicken and dumplings that practically cooks itself.
• It’s a fantastic way to incorporate protein and vegetables into a satisfying dinner.
• This dump and go slow cooker chicken dumplings dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

Gathering the ingredients for this slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is super simple, and the results are a truly creamy slow cooker chicken dumplings masterpiece. You’ll find everything here makes for a hearty and delicious meal.

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4-5 lbs) – they shred beautifully after cooking low and slow
• 4 tbsp butter – adds richness to the base
• 4 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup – this is the secret to that luscious, creamy broth
• 2 medium onions, finely diced – provides a sweet aromatic base
• 4 cups chicken broth – the liquid foundation for our soup
• 2 tsp garlic powder – for that essential savory punch
• 1 tsp dried thyme or poultry seasoning – adds classic herb notes
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – just enough to enhance flavors
• 2 (10 oz) packages refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into small pieces – these turn into fluffy, tender dumplings
• Optional: 2 cups chopped carrots and celery – for added color and nutrients
• Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas – stir in at the end for a pop of green
• Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream – for an extra decadent, creamy finish

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

1. Step 1: Start by prepping your slow cooker. Place the 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the insert. Add the 2 medium onions, finely diced, the 4 tbsp butter, the 4 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried thyme or poultry seasoning, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Pour in the 4 cups chicken broth. If you’re adding them, toss in the optional chopped carrots and celery now too. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the magic of an easy slow cooker chicken dumplings meal begins!
2. Step 2: Cover your slow cooker and set it to the LOW setting. Let it cook for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is so tender it shreds easily with just two forks. You’ll notice a wonderful savory aroma filling your kitchen during this time.
3. Step 3: Carefully remove the perfectly cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Place them on a cutting board and use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
4. Step 4: Now for the dumplings! Open the 2 (10 oz) packages refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into 4-6 small pieces. Scatter these little dough balls evenly over the top of the chicken and broth mixture in the slow cooker. Gently press them down so they are partially submerged in the liquid; this helps them cook up fluffy.
5. Step 5: Switch your slow cooker to the HIGH setting. Cover it again, making sure not to peek for at least the first 30 minutes. Cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the dumplings are puffed up, cooked through, and wonderfully fluffy. This is the final step in making your easy slow cooker chicken dumplings!
6. Step 6: If you opted for frozen peas, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. For an extra touch of richness and a truly creamy slow cooker chicken dumplings experience, stir in the 1/2 cup heavy cream during the last 30 minutes.
7. Step 7: Give everything a gentle stir to incorporate the dumplings into the broth. Let the dish rest on the WARM setting for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this slow cooker chicken dumplings recipe absolutely perfect every time. These little tips ensure maximum flavor and the fluffiest dumplings!

• Don’t skip shredding the chicken; it distributes the flavor better than leaving it in large chunks.
• Ensure the slow cooker is on HIGH when adding the dumplings. Cooking them on low won’t allow them to get fluffy.
• Resist the urge to lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking. Trapped steam is key to fluffy dumplings.
• For a richer broth, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts, or even a mix of both.

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings?

The secret really lies in the cooking environment for the dumplings. Making sure they cook on HIGH heat with the lid sealed tightly allows them to steam and puff up perfectly. This is how to make slow cooker chicken dumplings truly shine. For more on the benefits of onions, check out this article.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the chicken and broth base ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, reheat the mixture thoroughly in the slow cooker before adding the dumplings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings?

A common pitfall is opening the lid too early when the dumplings are cooking, which can make them dense. Also, ensure you’re using refrigerated biscuit dough; homemade from scratch can be more unpredictable in the slow cooker. For a great side, consider roasted carrot soup.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

This hearty slow cooker chicken dumplings dish is a meal in itself, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the meal. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is wonderful. It cuts through the richness of the dumplings perfectly. If you’re looking for something to complement the comforting flavors, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread for dipping into that creamy broth. And if you want to lean into the soup aspect, this makes a fantastic base for a more robust slow cooker chicken dumpling soup by adding extra broth and maybe some fresh herbs.

Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious slow cooker chicken dumplings recipe. It’s a hearty meal that offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: N/A
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: 840mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

Even though this slow cooker chicken dumplings from scratch recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can absolutely store leftovers for later. Once cooked, let the chicken and dumplings cool slightly before transferring them to airtight containers. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Separate the chicken and broth mixture from the dumplings if possible, as dumplings can get a bit mushy upon reheating. Freeze the base for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and broth mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave. If reheating frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first. Add fresh dumplings or reheat the original ones carefully to maintain their texture. For a sweet finish, consider berry crumble.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

What’s the best way to get tender chicken for slow cooker chicken dumplings?

For the most tender chicken, I always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook them on LOW for the recommended 4-5 hours. Shredding them while they’re still warm makes it super easy. This method is key to achieving the succulent chicken needed for a great slow cooker chicken dumplings from scratch experience.

Can I use frozen chicken for this slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe?

Yes, you can! If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, just add about 1-2 extra hours to the initial LOW cooking time. It’s important to ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender before shredding. This makes it a true dump-and-go meal!

How do I make the dumplings fluffier for my crock pot chicken and dumplings?

The trick to fluffy dumplings is to ensure they cook on HIGH heat, and you absolutely must resist the urge to lift the lid while they’re steaming. The trapped steam is what makes them light and airy. I’ve found that cutting the biscuits into smaller pieces also helps them cook more evenly. For more tips on cooking, see this post.

Is this considered the best crock pot chicken and dumplings for picky eaters?

Absolutely! The creamy, savory broth and tender chicken are usually a hit with kids, and the fluffy dumplings are like little clouds of deliciousness. It’s a comfort food classic that’s hard to resist, which is why it’s often considered the best crock pot chicken and dumplings for family dinners.

Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic slow cooker chicken dumplings recipe, you might want to get a little creative! There are so many delicious ways to switch things up. For a healthier twist, try using reduced-sodium chicken broth and a whole wheat biscuit topping. You can also add extra vegetables like corn or green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients. Another fantastic option is to create a richer, more decadent version by stirring in a bit of heavy cream at the end – this makes for a truly luxurious creamy slow cooker chicken dumplings experience. And if you’re a fan of that classic biscuit topping, you can make your own homemade drop biscuits to scatter over the top for the ultimate slow cooker chicken dumplings with biscuit topping.

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