There's something magical about coming home to the comforting aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings filling your kitchen. This hearty dish combines tender, shredded chicken with fluffy dumplings, all bathed in a rich and creamy broth that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

The first time I made this, it was during a cold winter evening when my family craved something cozy and satisfying. Now, it’s a staple in our household, perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready with minimal effort. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your menu rotation.

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Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a lifesaver for busy cooks and a delight for anyone lucky enough to eat it.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. All you need to do is toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. The crockpot does all the hard work, leaving you free to tackle your day.

The flavors are absolutely irresistible. With tender chicken, savory broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings, it’s the perfect blend of textures and tastes to warm you up from the inside out.

This dish is family-friendly and versatile. Whether you have picky eaters or need a dish that satisfies various palates, everyone will find something to love in this classic comfort meal.

Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully. It’s just as delicious on day two, making it a great option for meal prep or an easy reheat-and-eat lunch.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Chicken thighs are the star of the show. Their higher fat content ensures they stay juicy and tender throughout the slow cooking process. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

Chicken broth forms the base of the creamy sauce. Go for a low-sodium option so you can control the saltiness of the dish.

Cream of chicken soup is the secret ingredient that adds both creaminess and depth of flavor. If you’re not a fan of canned soups, you can substitute with a homemade version or a roux-based sauce.

Vegetables like diced onions, carrots, and celery not only add flavor but also bring a pop of color and nutrients to the dish. You can mix in frozen peas for an extra touch of sweetness.

For the dumplings, refrigerated biscuit dough makes this recipe a breeze. Simply cut the dough into small pieces, and they’ll puff up beautifully as they cook in the broth.

You’ll also need basic seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of thyme for a subtle herbal note.

How To Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Making Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Start by preparing your ingredients. Dice your onions, carrots, and celery, and gather your seasonings. Place the chicken thighs into the crockpot and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a well-seasoned base.

Add the diced vegetables, followed by the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the soup is evenly distributed.

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and easy to shred, while the flavors meld together into a delicious broth.

About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the crockpot. Cut your biscuit dough into small pieces and add them to the crockpot, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth. Cover and cook for another 30-40 minutes, until the dumplings are fluffy and fully cooked.

Once done, give everything a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors!

Storage Options

This dish is fantastic for leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings so you can enjoy it later.

Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the dish on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe to suit your preferences:

Add herbs: Stir in fresh parsley, dill, or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.
Switch proteins: Substitute the chicken with turkey or pork for a unique twist.
Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and add hearty mushrooms or chickpeas instead of chicken.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Homemade dumplings: If you have the time, make your dumplings from scratch for an extra special touch.

With these variations, you can make this dish uniquely yours every time you prepare it.

Warm, hearty, and incredibly easy to make, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or a meal to share with loved ones, this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bowl.