Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is comfort food that sings to your soul. Imagine tender, juicy chicken swimming in a creamy broth, simmered to perfection with dumplings that are fluffy enough to put a cloud to shame. This dish has the magical ability to transform an ordinary day into a cozy gathering, evoking memories of family dinners and laughter around the table.
Picture this: you walk into your home after a long day, and the aroma of savory chicken, aromatic herbs, and buttery dumplings fills the air, wrapping around you like a soft blanket. Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is that dish you bring to potlucks, making you the unofficial hero of the evening as everyone swoops in for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this delightful experience right in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- This incredible Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Ideal for their tenderness and flavor, these thighs hold up beautifully during the slow cooking process.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish without overwhelming the taste buds.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a mild heat and complements the savory elements perfectly.
1 bay leaf – Infuses the broth with an earthy aroma, reminding you of grandma’s kitchen.
1 teaspoon dried parsley – A touch of freshness that brightens the dish and makes it visually appealing.
½ teaspoon dried rosemary – Its woodsy notes bring a fragrant depth that harmonizes beautifully with the chicken.
½ teaspoon dried thyme – A classic herb that rounds out the flavors with its gentle earthiness.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – For that instant flavor punch, garlic powder works wonders here.
1¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth – Use low-sodium to let you control the overall saltiness while keeping it flavorful.
1 carrot, peeled and sliced – Sweet and colorful, carrots add both texture and nutrition.
1 onion, chopped – The base of many great dishes, onions provide sweetness and depth once caramelized.
10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup – A rich component that brings creaminess and enhances the overall comfort factor.
½ cup frozen peas – These little green gems add a pop of color and sweetness to balance the dish.
16.3 ounces refrigerated biscuit dough – The stars of the show! Perfectly flaky and light dumplings that rise beautifully in the crockpot.
Chopped fresh parsley, optional, for garnish – Just a sprinkle adds brightness and freshness for presentation.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by shaking salt and pepper over both sides of the chicken thighs. This is your first flavor layer, so don’t be shy.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. Next, introduce the bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder, creating a fragrant base.
Step 3: Pour in the Liquids
Now it’s time for the broth. Gently pour in the chicken broth, followed by the sliced carrot, chopped onion, and cream of chicken soup. Give it a gentle stir, careful not to disturb the chicken too much.
Step 4: Let it Cook
Cover your crockpot and set it to high. Cook for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender, shreds easily, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Add the Peas and Shred (Optional)
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the frozen peas. If you’re feeling adventurous, shred the chicken at this stage and stir everything together.
Step 6: Make the Dumplings
Open the can of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into fourths. Roll each quarter into small balls and arrange them gently on top of the chicken mixture in the crockpot.
Step 7: Cook the Dumplings
Place the lid back on and set the crockpot to high. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 hours. Resist the urge to peek – this is crucial for the dumplings to become fluffy and delightful.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
When the biscuits are fully risen and cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for that extra special touch.
As the steam rises from your bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, you know you’ve made something spectacular. The timing couldn’t be better for cozy nights, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a comforting meal. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it on repeat as the ultimate go-to for deliciousness. Who needs takeout when you can whip this up at home? Happy cooking and even happier eating!
You Must Know About Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- This showstopping Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, begin by seasoning and placing the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Layer in the vegetables and broth, then top with the biscuit pieces for a perfect cook.
Add Your Touch to Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Feel free to get creative by swapping out chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even turkey. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil and add veggies like celery or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
To store your delicious bowl of comfort, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- This professional-quality Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
A few years back, I served this dish at a family gathering, and it was a total hit. My cousin couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was—and she’s the toughest critic I know!
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
What is Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken thighs, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked slowly in a crockpot. The key ingredients include chicken, a variety of herbs, cream of chicken soup, and biscuit dough for the dumplings. This easy recipe yields rich flavors and a creamy texture, making it a perfect meal on chilly days. It’s not only simple to prepare, but also great for family dinners where everyone can enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
The total cook time for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is about 5 hours and 15 minutes. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prep, followed by 3 to 4 hours of cooking on high heat for the chicken and vegetables. After that, you add in biscuit dough and let it cook for another 1 to 2 hours to achieve those fluffy dumplings. This slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully together.
Can I customize Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is its versatility. You can easily substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Feel free to mix in additional vegetables such as celery or corn for more texture and nutrition. Experimenting with different herbs like basil or oregano can also elevate the flavors and make this dish your own.
How should I store Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
To keep your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last for up to three days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it either on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to ensure it remains creamy and prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Conclusion for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
In summary, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a soul-warming meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and an effortless cooking process, you’ll create a dish that brings comfort to your table. Remember to customize it to fit your taste preferences, and enjoy the delightful flavors that this classic dish offers. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy!
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shake salt and pepper over both sides of the chicken thighs and arrange in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add in bay leaf, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
- Pour in chicken broth, carrot, onion, and cream of chicken soup. Gently stir the top to incorporate the ingredients without disturbing the chicken.
- Cover crockpot with the lid and cook on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is easy to shred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add the frozen peas. You can shred the chicken if desired. Stir well to combine.
- Open a can of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into fourths. Roll each biscuit into a round ball. Arrange the biscuit pieces on top of everything else in the crockpot.
- Replace the lid, turn the crockpot to high, and cook the biscuits for about 1 to 2 hours. Do not lift the lid to check on them.
- When the biscuits are done, adjust seasonings to taste and serve.
