CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings

Craving comforting, homemade chicken and dumplings but short on time? This CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the perfect solution for busy families. Tender, fall-apart chicken combines with soft, pillowy dumplings in a rich and creamy sauce for the ultimate hearty meal. With only a few ingredients and just minutes of prep, you’ll have a family-friendly dinner ready with barely any effort. It’s a no-bake wonder that allows you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen!

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) chicken broth
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)

Equipment:

6-quart CrockPot (slow cooker)
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk (optional for mixing)

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken into your CrockPot. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier result. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder for a flavorful base. Feel free to add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme if you love the herb’s earthy flavor!

2. Add the Creamy Base

Next, pour in 1 can of cream of chicken soup and 1 can of chicken broth. Stir everything together gently to coat the chicken evenly. This creamy mixture will serve as the comforting sauce that ties the dish together.

3. Set It and Forget It

Cover your CrockPot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook to perfection, absorbing all those rich flavors while remaining tender and juicy.

4. Prepare the Dumplings

About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to add the dumplings. Open 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently stir in 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables into the CrockPot to add color and nutrition. Then, drop the biscuit pieces on top of the chicken mixture. Make sure to cover the dumplings with the sauce to keep them moist as they cook.

5. Final Cooking

Close the lid again and cook on high for another 30 minutes. The dumplings will rise and become fluffy, soaking up the delicious chicken and broth flavors. They should be cooked through and light.

Optional Variations and Creative Additions

Herb It Up: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of flavor and freshness. Simply chop them finely and stir them in at the end.
Make It a Casserole: For a baked version, you can transfer the cooked chicken and sauce to a casserole dish, add the biscuit dough on top, and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or celery for more texture and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender.

Serving Tips

Once everything is cooked, gently fluff the dumplings with a fork and serve them in bowls. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also accompany it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Drizzle some extra broth over the top for a saucier finish.

FAQs for Best Preparation and Storage Practices

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the CrockPot. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to about 8-10 hours on low.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and then simply set it in the CrockPot in the morning.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure that your cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are gluten-free certified.

Conclusion

This CrockPot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that the whole family will adore. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and creamy sauce makes it a true winner for any dinner table. Enjoy this hearty meal with loved ones, knowing you’ve prepared something delicious with minimal effort. Try it out tonight and savor the delightful flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!