If you’ve ever longed for a warm, comforting meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day, then you’re in for a treat with this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe. Imagine tender chicken simmered with fragrant herbs and fresh vegetables, all swimming in a rich, creamy broth topped with fluffy, golden dumplings made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This dish is the ultimate cozy, soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect for any chilly day or family dinner when you want serious comfort food without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward a truly spectacular dish. Each one plays a key role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe so memorable.
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The star protein, tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides aromatic warmth and a flavorful punch.
- 3 medium carrots (sliced): Sweetness and a subtle crunch that brightens every bite.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Contributes earthiness and texture contrast.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the dish with an herbaceous, savory note.
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers a fragrant, pine-like flavor to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth.
- 1 bay leaf: Brings subtle complexity to the broth as it simmers.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The savory liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup (optional): Makes the broth luxuriously creamy and velvety if you like extra richness.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Pops of sweetness and a bright green color contrast.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (added at the end): Adds silky smoothness and gentle body to the stew.
- 1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough: The quick and easy dumplings that puff up delightfully in the slow cooker.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the presentation and flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Place the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and chicken broth into your slow cooker. If you want a thicker, creamier broth, stir in the can of cream of chicken soup now. This combination will slowly mingle into a flavorful stew while you go about your day.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook the mixture on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low and slow method helps the chicken become tender enough to shred easily, while infusing the broth with rich flavors from the herbs and vegetables.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the bay leaf from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pot. This step ensures that every bite has that perfect, tender texture that feels homemade and satisfying.
Step 4: Add Peas and Cream
Stir in the frozen peas and the heavy cream or half-and-half. The peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness, while the cream creates the luscious, velvety broth you expect from a classic chicken and dumplings stew.
Step 5: Add the Dumplings
Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into roughly 1-inch pieces and place them gently on top of the slow cooker stew. Cover and cook on high for an additional 1 to 1½ hours until the dumplings are puffed up, golden, and cooked through, soaking up the wonderful flavors beneath.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a burst of color but also lends a light, herbal note that balances the richness of the dish beautifully. You can also add a little cracked black pepper for a touch of extra warmth.
Side Dishes
This dish is so hearty it shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. A crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy broth left in the bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this stew in rustic bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some shredded sharp cheddar for a cheesy twist. For a cozy gathering, ladle the chicken and dumplings into bread bowls for a fun, charming presentation that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe makes wonderful leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the dumplings will absorb more broth over time, making the stew thicker and even more comforting the next day.
Freezing
While the dumplings can become a bit soft after freezing and thawing, the stew itself freezes well. For best results, freeze the broth and shredded chicken separately from the dumplings in freezer-safe containers, and combine when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Using frozen chicken could increase the cooking time and may affect how the vegetables and dumplings cook.
Can I make homemade dumplings instead of biscuit dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dumplings add an extra-special touch. Just place spoonfuls of the dough on top of the stew during the last hour of cooking, adjusting timing until they are cooked through and fluffy.
Is cream of chicken soup necessary?
While this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe tastes fantastic with it, the soup is optional. It adds creaminess and depth but if you prefer a lighter stew, you can omit it and rely on the broth and cream at the end.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free biscuit dough or make your own. Just be sure to check ingredient labels for hidden dairy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with your favorites like mushrooms, green beans, or potatoes. Just be mindful of cooking times for different veggies so everything stays tender and balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is a true game-changer for anyone craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. The ease of the slow cooker paired with the rich flavors and fluffy dumplings makes it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat. Trust me, once you try it, this will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy, delicious meals with minimal effort.
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Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a comforting and hearty American classic made easy with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy biscuit dumplings, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this dish combines rich creaminess and savory herbs for a deliciously satisfying stew.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Seasonings and Broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup (optional for creaminess)
Additions
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (added at the end)
- 1 (16.3-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and slicing the carrots and celery to have all your vegetables ready.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir in the cream of chicken soup if using for added creaminess.
- Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on low heat for 6–7 hours or on high heat for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred Chicken and Add Peas: Remove the bay leaf, then shred the chicken inside the slow cooker using two forks. Stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream or half-and-half to enrich the stew.
- Add Dumplings: Cut the refrigerated biscuit dough into approximately 1-inch pieces. Scatter these pieces evenly over the top of the stew.
- Cook Dumplings: Cover again and cook on high for an additional 1 to 1½ hours until the biscuits are puffed up and fully cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the chicken and dumplings warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute homemade dumplings or biscuit mix based on your preference.
- For enhanced flavor, add a splash of white wine or a pinch of poultry seasoning with the herbs.
- Leftovers tend to thicken as they cool and often taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
