Irresistible Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: A Cozy Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

This dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners and the delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen.

With tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Ingredient List

To create a hearty and satisfying Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, I gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  This will be the heart of the dish, providing tender chunks of chicken to enjoy.
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  Adds creaminess and depth to the broth.
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) low-sodium chicken broth
  A flavorful base that enhances the overall taste.
• 1/2 cup diced onion
  For a savory aromatic flavor that brings the dish to life.
• 1/2 cup diced celery
  Adds texture and a mild flavor to the mix.
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
  This brings a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Provides a subtle garlic essence for a savory touch.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  Delivers an earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Essential for elevating all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 package (7.5 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough
  This will form the fluffy dumplings that sit atop the savory mixture.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken and Vegetables
   Begin by placing 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Next, add 1 diced onion, 2 stalks of diced celery, and 2 diced carrots. These vegetables meld together beautifully to create a hearty base.
2. Create the Savory Broth
   In a separate bowl, combine 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) of cream of chicken soup and 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Whisk this mixture until smooth then pour it over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot, ensuring everything is well coated.
3. Cook the Mixture
   Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will become tender and the flavors will deepen, creating a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
4. Shred the Chicken
   When the cooking time is up, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. I like to shred the chicken using two forks—it should come apart easily. Once shredded, return the chicken to the pot and stir it back into the broth and veggies.
5. Add the Dumplings
   Open 1 can (16.3 ounces) of refrigerated biscuit dough. Tear each biscuit into quarters and drop them into the crockpot. Make sure they are evenly spread throughout the dish. Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
6. Final Touches
   When the dumplings are puffed and fully cooked, give the dish a gentle stir. If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve hot. This comforting dish warms not only the body but also the soul, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, I like to keep a few notes in mind to enhance the dish and cater to different tastes.

Chicken Options

• Bone-In Chicken: For richer flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces. Just be sure to remove the bones before shredding.
• Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, substitute with rotisserie chicken instead. Add it in during the last hour of cooking to heat through.

Vegetable Choices

• Frozen Vegetables: I often use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience. They save prep time and add color.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to include peas or diced potatoes for added texture and nutrition.

Dumpling Variations

• Homemade Dumplings: For a more personalized touch, I occasionally whip up homemade dumplings using flour baking powder milk and butter.
• Gluten-Free Options: If you need to go gluten-free, try using gluten-free biscuit dough or a gluten-free baking mix for dumplings.

Flavor Enhancements

• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor twist. A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish.
• Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños if I want some heat.

• Creamy Version: For a creamier broth, stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving.
• Crackers or Bread: I love serving this dish with saltine crackers or warm crusty bread on the side for an extra layer of comfort.

These variations and notes allow me to customize my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to my liking while keeping the dish comforting and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

When I serve my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, I like to create a cozy meal experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Here are a few ideas to elevate the dining experience:

Pair With Bread

Warm crusty bread or homemade soft rolls make perfect companions. The bread is great for soaking up the delicious broth and adds a delightful texture.

Side Salads

I often serve a fresh side salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken and dumplings wonderfully. It adds a splash of color and a crisp bite.

Seasonal Vegetables

Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables are another fantastic addition. Carrot sticks, green beans, or Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy side that balances the dish’s softness.

Garnish

I love to sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish just before serving. It adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color that makes the meal visually appealing.

Beverage Pairing

To complete the meal, a glass of chilled white wine or a warm cup of herbal tea makes for a delightful beverage choice. The lightness of whites pairs beautifully with the savory depth of the dumplings.

Family Style Serving

I prefer to serve this dish family style in a large bowl. It encourages sharing and creates a warm atmosphere that matches the comfort of the dish itself.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the meal but also help create a warm and inviting setting for friends and family to enjoy this classic comfort food together.

Nutrition Information

When preparing my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, I love knowing the nutritional benefits of this comforting dish.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the nutrition information per serving based on the ingredients used in my recipe.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	430
Total Fat	15 g
Saturated Fat	5 g
Cholesterol	90 mg
Sodium	870 mg
Total Carbohydrates	38 g
Dietary Fiber	2 g
Sugars	3 g
Protein	35 g

This meal provides a hearty balance of protein from the chicken and carbs from the dumplings, making it a filling option.

The use of low-sodium chicken broth and fresh vegetables helps keep the sodium in check, while the dish still offers rich flavors and warmth.

Adjusting the ingredients allows for variations in the nutritional content, like opting for whole wheat biscuit dough for added fiber.

Enjoying this classic recipe not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart with every satisfying bite.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings truly brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. It’s one of those meals that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.

I love how versatile this dish is, allowing for personal touches and variations that cater to everyone’s taste.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or sharing it with loved ones, it’s bound to create cherished memories.

So grab your crockpot and let the comforting aromas fill your home. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Happy cooking!

Print