Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings – It’s the ultimate comfort food, with tender, juicy chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth that’s packed with flavor.

Why Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and dumplings have been a beloved classic for generations. Traditionally, it involves cooking chicken in a pot with vegetables and broth, then dropping biscuit-like dumplings into the simmering liquid. While this method is fantastic, using a slow cooker (Crock Pot) elevates the convenience to a whole new level. With minimal prep, you can let your crock pot do all the work, freeing you up for the day. Plus, slow-cooking ensures the chicken stays tender and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings:

• Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless): I prefer thighs for extra tenderness, but breasts work well too.
• Chicken broth: A rich, flavorful base for the soup.
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy consistency.
• Onion, celery, and carrots: Classic veggies that add depth and sweetness.
• Garlic: For extra flavor.
• Frozen peas: Added towards the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
• Refrigerated biscuit dough: The secret to easy, fluffy dumplings without the hassle of making dough from scratch.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

• Don’t overfill the crock pot: Dumplings need space to expand. Make sure your crock pot isn’t too full before adding them.
• For crispy dumplings: If you prefer slightly crispier dumplings, transfer them to a baking sheet and broil for a couple of minutes after cooking in the crock pot.
• Thicken the broth: If you find the broth too thin, mix a tablespoon of flour with a bit of water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can take your dish to the next level. Sprinkle some on top just before serving.

Variations on Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Chicken and Dumplings: Add a kick by stirring in some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapenos.
• Cheesy Dumplings: For an indulgent twist, mix shredded cheddar cheese into your biscuit dough before dropping it in the crock pot.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuit dough or make your own dumplings with gluten-free flour.

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few sides:

• Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Green salad: A light, refreshing side to balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted vegetables: For extra nutrients and color on your plate.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

While the chicken and broth freeze well, dumplings can become a bit soggy after freezing. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to freeze the chicken mixture without the dumplings. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and add fresh dumplings to cook.

Reheating:

Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the broth has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use homemade dumplings instead of biscuit dough?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dumplings, you can make a simple dough using flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter. Just drop spoonfuls of the dough into the crock pot and cook as instructed.

Can I cook this on the stove instead of a crock pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to a stovetop. Cook the chicken and veggies in a large pot until tender, then add the dumplings and simmer until they’re fully cooked.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Why are my dumplings gummy?

This can happen if the dumplings are too crowded or if they didn’t cook long enough. Make sure to give them enough space and time to rise and cook through.

What if my broth is too thick?

If your broth turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add extra chicken broth or water during the cooking process to thin it out.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a classic dish that never fails to deliver comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for those busy days when you want a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Plus, with all the tips, variations, and FAQs above, you’re well-equipped to make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Still Hungry! Try these chicken recipes:

• Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde
• Crockpot White Chicken Chili