The aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings wafts through the house like a warm hug, wrapping you in comfort as soon as you enter the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a rich, savory broth with fluffy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth; it’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds.
This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about memories too. I can still recall the first time I made this for my family on a chilly Sunday afternoon. The kids waltzed into the kitchen, their eyes wide with anticipation, and I knew right then that this recipe was destined to become a staple in our household. Now, if only I could find a way to keep the kitchen clean while cooking!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Every bite bursts with flavor thanks to the aromatic spices and tender chicken.
- The dish looks beautiful served steaming hot, with puffy dumplings floating atop the broth.
- It’s versatile enough for a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well, but adjust according to your crowd size.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; slice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Celery: Chopped celery brings crunch and flavor; opt for firm stalks for the best texture.
- Onion: Use one medium onion, chopped; it adds depth to the broth.
- Garlic: Three cloves of minced garlic elevate the flavors; fresh is always best!
- Chicken Broth: A quart of low-sodium chicken broth keeps it flavorful without being overly salty.
For the Dumplings:
- Baking Powder: This ingredient makes your dumplings rise and become fluffy—don’t skip it!
- All-Purpose Flour: Two cups create a perfect base for the dumpling dough.
For Seasoning:
- Dried Thyme: One teaspoon enhances the overall taste profile; it’s an essential herb here!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping all your vegetables—carrots, celery, onion—and mincing that garlic. Trust me; your future self will thank you for this organized approach.
Step 2: Layer Everything In The Slow Cooker
Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add in your chopped veggies, followed by garlic. Pour in that lovely chicken broth until everything is covered just right.
Step 3: Season It Up
Sprinkle dried thyme over your mixture along with some salt and pepper for seasoning. Give it a gentle stir so everything mingles beautifully—like old friends at a reunion.
Step 4: Let It Cook
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for about six hours or high for three hours. You want that chicken to be fork-tender—trust me; patience pays off!
Step 5: Create Your Dumpling Dough
While the magic happens inside your slow cooker, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and milk in a separate bowl until combined but slightly lumpy—this will ensure those perfect dumpling textures.
Step 6: Drop Those Dumplings
Once your chicken is tender (you can shred it if you like), drop spoonfuls of dough over top of everything in the slow cooker. Cover again and cook on high for another half hour until they puff up like little clouds.
Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of thyme if you’re feeling fancy! Transfer to plates and enjoy every spoonful of this comforting classic—you deserve it!
You Must Know
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a cozy classic that transforms any dreary day into a delightful experience.
- With just a handful of ingredients, you can achieve a meal that wraps you in warmth like a favorite blanket.
- Perfect for busy weeknights and lazy Sundays alike!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, start by searing the chicken for extra flavor. Next, toss in your veggies and seasonings before adding broth. Finally, add the dumplings toward the end for that perfect fluffy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings with different vegetables like carrots or peas. You can also experiment with herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added depth. Need a kick? A dash of hot sauce works wonders!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole For reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly tender dumplings, avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking.
- Allow flavors to meld together without interruptions.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure deliciousness.
I remember the first time I made Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for my family; they devoured it like it was their last meal! The smiles on their faces were priceless, reminding me why I love cooking so much.
FAQs :
What are the main ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
To make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, you will need boneless chicken breasts or thighs, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, carrots, celery, onion, and frozen dumplings. Seasoning such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme enhances the flavor. Homemade Cream Of Chicken Soup Using fresh herbs can also elevate the dish. The combination of these ingredients creates a hearty and comforting meal that cooks perfectly in your slow cooker.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific slow cooker model you use. It is crucial to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. This slow cooking method results in tender chicken and flavorful dumplings.
Can I use homemade dumplings in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use homemade dumplings in your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Homemade dumplings add a personal touch and can be customized with your favorite flavors. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as homemade dumplings might require less time than frozen ones. Old Fashioned Apple Dumplings Experimenting with herbs or spices in your dumpling dough can also enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Is Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings healthy?
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings can be made healthier by using lean chicken cuts, low-sodium broth, and adding plenty of vegetables like carrots and celery. You can also opt for whole wheat dumplings to increase fiber content. While this dish is comforting and delicious, mindful ingredient choices allow it to fit into a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings :
In summary, Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth to any table. By using simple ingredients like chicken, broth, vegetables, and dumplings, you create a hearty meal with minimal effort. Cooking it slowly allows flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring tender meat. Whether you choose frozen or homemade dumplings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite for its convenience and taste. Enjoy this cozy meal any day of the week! For more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 14 minute
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that delivers hearty flavors and cozy aromas with minimal effort. Tender chicken simmers in a rich broth alongside fluffy dumplings, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely Sundays.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic.
- Layer the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top.
- Pour in the chicken broth until everything is covered.
- Season with thyme, salt, and pepper; stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, milk (or water), and salt to create dumpling dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough over the cooked chicken mixture and cover again. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. Feel free to customize your dish by adding peas or using fresh herbs like rosemary. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.



