There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings simmering away. This hearty, family-friendly meal combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory broth – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.

I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter evening when I needed a cozy meal that required minimal effort. Since then, it’s become my go-to for busy weekdays or lazy Sundays. Let me show you why this dish deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Get ready to fall head over heels for the easiest comfort food you'll ever make. This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect family dinner.

First off, it’s incredibly simple. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, so you can spend your day focused on other things while your dinner practically cooks itself.

Another great perk? It’s budget-friendly. Using everyday ingredients like chicken thighs, broth, and refrigerated biscuits means you can whip up a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. Whether you want to sneak in some veggies for added nutrition or customize the flavors to suit your palate, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious.

Finally, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. The tender chicken, pillowy dumplings, and creamy broth create a dish that warms your soul with every bite. Ready to dive in? Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in bringing this dish together.

The chicken is the star of the show. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender after hours of slow cooking. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too, but they may not be quite as moist.

For the broth, a combination of chicken stock and cream of chicken soup creates a rich, savory base that coats every bite. Feel free to use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.

The dumplings are made effortlessly with refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut into small pieces, they puff up beautifully in the crockpot, transforming into soft, pillowy bites. You can also make homemade dumplings if you prefer a from-scratch approach.

A handful of veggies like diced onions, carrots, and celery add a layer of flavor and texture to the dish. You can leave them out or swap in your family’s favorites.

Finally, don’t forget seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, and parsley. These elevate the dish, adding depth to the creamy broth. A sprinkle of salt and pepper ties everything together.

You’ll also need a trusty crockpot to bring this recipe to life – no fancy equipment required!

How To Make This Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings

Creating this soul-warming dish is as easy as layering, setting, and savoring. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your own Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

Start by placing your chicken thighs in the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle them with garlic powder, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.

Next, add your vegetables. Diced onions, carrots, and celery make a great addition, but feel free to skip or substitute as needed. Pour in your chicken broth and stir in the cream of chicken soup until everything is well combined.

Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld while the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Add it back into the crockpot. At this point, layer the biscuit pieces on top. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

Once done, give everything a gentle stir, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. The total time investment is mostly hands-off, making it an ideal recipe for busy days.

Storage Options

This dish is perfect for meal prep and reheating, so you can enjoy leftovers without any fuss.

Store any remaining Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making the leftovers even more delicious.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. This meal can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

Swap the chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a quick and easy alternative.
Make it veggie-packed: Add peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick.
Try homemade dumplings: If you’re up for a challenge, mix up a simple dough of flour, milk, and baking powder for fresh-from-scratch dumplings.
Lighten it up: Substitute cream of chicken soup with a lighter homemade version using milk, chicken broth, and cornstarch.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a canvas for your favorite flavors and ingredients.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a warm, satisfying meal, this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every comforting bite!