There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings filling your kitchen. This classic dish combines tender, slow-cooked chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all simmered together in a rich, creamy broth. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

I first discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something easy but satisfying. Little did I know it would become a family favorite, requested time and again. Let me show you how to make this delicious, slow-cooker masterpiece.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Get ready to add a new staple to your recipe rotation. Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a dish you’ll turn to time and time again, and for good reason.

First off, this recipe is the epitome of convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can have a hearty, homemade dinner ready with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you’d rather spend your time relaxing.

Not only is it easy, but it’s also packed with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the chicken and vegetables to develop deep, rich flavors, while the dumplings soak up the savory broth for a taste you won’t forget.

It’s also a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids or adventurous eaters, this recipe is universally appealing. The fluffy dumplings and tender chicken are comfort food at its best.

Finally, this dish is budget-friendly and versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, and the dumplings can be made with pantry staples. It's a great way to stretch your grocery budget without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, so let’s break them down.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly here. Thighs tend to stay juicier during the slow-cooking process, but breasts are a leaner option if that’s your preference.
Vegetables: Classic choices like diced carrots, celery, and onions provide a base of hearty flavor. Feel free to add peas, green beans, or even corn toward the end of cooking for a burst of sweetness and color.
Broth: Chicken broth creates a flavorful, savory foundation for the dish. If you want a creamier result, substitute part of the broth with heavy cream or milk.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic, thyme, and bay leaves adds depth to the dish. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Dumplings: You can use canned biscuit dough for quick and easy dumplings, or whip up homemade ones if you prefer. Either way, they’ll cook to pillowy perfection right in the crockpot.

You’ll also need a slow cooker for this recipe. A 6-quart model works well to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

How To Make This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Creating this comforting dish is surprisingly easy. With just a few steps, you’ll have a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Start by placing your chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add your diced carrots, celery, and onions, followed by the chicken broth, garlic, and seasonings. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Once the chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the broth and vegetables.

Next, it’s time to add the dumplings. If you’re using canned biscuit dough, cut the biscuits into small pieces and drop them directly into the crockpot. For homemade dumplings, mix your dough and spoon small portions into the broth. Cover the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

Before serving, give the dish a gentle stir to ensure everything is well combined. Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high, making it a great option for those days when you want to “set it and forget it.”

Storage Options

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is just as good the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly.

Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating to preserve its texture and flavor.
Freezing: While the chicken and broth freeze well, the dumplings can become a bit soggy when thawed. If you plan to freeze, consider freezing just the chicken and broth mixture, then adding fresh dumplings when reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and dumplings in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if the mixture seems too thick.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. Here are some ideas to customize your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

Add More Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition. Stir in tender vegetables like spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Swap the Protein: Try using turkey or diced ham instead of chicken for a fun twist. This is also a great way to use up leftover holiday turkey.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuit dough or make dumplings with gluten-free flour. Check that your broth is gluten-free as well.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. You can also sprinkle in smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
Herb Lovers: Fresh rosemary, sage, or parsley can enhance the dish’s flavor. Add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for the best results.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect version of this classic dish. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or put your own spin on it, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is sure to be a hit.