This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a dish that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. The tender chicken and rich, flavorful broth are perfectly complemented by fluffy, light dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. With minimal prep and the convenience of the slow cooker, you can spend more time enjoying the meal with loved ones. It’s hearty, filling, and a true taste of Southern comfort food!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
For the chicken and broth:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
For the dumplings:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Grease the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray. Place the chicken breasts (or thighs), diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and garlic into the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the thyme, parsley, bay leaf, pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in the frozen peas.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the surface of the chicken mixture in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high heat for an additional 30-40 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 321 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings
A Brief History of Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings have long been a staple in Southern kitchens, often crafted as a way to make the most out of simple, affordable ingredients. It was particularly popular during the Great Depression when families needed to stretch their food supplies. Dumplings, made from basic pantry items like flour, butter, and milk, were used to complement chicken and broth, creating a hearty and filling meal.
The modern crockpot version brings this tradition into the 21st century, combining convenience with timeless flavor. Using a slow cooker ensures the chicken is tender and the flavors are deeply infused, while maintaining the nostalgic charm of the original recipe.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Ease of Preparation
This recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy families or anyone looking for an effortless homemade meal. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks. No need to babysit the stove or worry about timing – the crockpot ensures perfect results every time. - Wholesome Ingredients
With fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and a flavorful homemade broth, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. The addition of herbs like thyme and parsley adds depth and a touch of earthiness to the dish, while the dumplings provide satisfying heartiness. - Customizable to Your Preferences
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example:- Swap out the frozen peas for green beans, corn, or even chopped kale.
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a hint of heat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter evening, as a comforting dish during the holidays, or as an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to please. It’s a crowd-pleaser that serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for family meals or leftovers.
Nutritional Benefits
While this dish is known for its comforting qualities, it also offers surprising nutritional benefits:
- Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Vegetable Goodness: Carrots, celery, onions, and peas provide essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A for eye health and fiber for digestion.
- Balanced Carbs and Fats: The dumplings offer a satisfying dose of carbohydrates, while the butter and milk in the dough add a touch of healthy fats to keep the dish rich and flavorful.
For those watching their intake, you can make simple swaps like using whole-wheat flour for the dumplings or reducing the butter for a lighter version.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choose the Right Chicken
While both chicken breasts and thighs work well, thighs are more forgiving and remain juicy even with extended cooking. If you prefer white meat, be mindful not to overcook it to avoid dryness. - Don’t Skip the Herbs
Dried thyme and parsley are essential for creating that comforting, home-cooked flavor. Fresh herbs can also be used for an added burst of aroma and color. - Perfect Dumpling Dough
When making the dumplings, avoid over-mixing the dough, as this can lead to dense dumplings. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined. - Finishing Touches
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley before serving. This simple step elevates the presentation and adds a pop of color and freshness.
Why Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Stands Out
Unlike other comfort foods that can be heavy or overly rich, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. It’s creamy without being overpowering, hearty without being overly dense, and flavorful without requiring exotic or hard-to-find ingredients.
Moreover, this dish is ideal for those who value simplicity in the kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels like it took hours of hands-on preparation.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or buttery biscuits makes an excellent side dish to scoop up the delicious broth.
- Add a Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy dumplings.
- Drinks to Complement: A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this meal, while sweet iced tea offers a more traditional Southern touch.
Leftover Ideas
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), here are a few creative ways to repurpose them:
- Chicken Pot Pie: Use the leftovers as a filling for a quick pot pie. Just add a pre-made pastry crust.
- Soup Twist: Thin the leftovers with additional chicken broth to create a comforting chicken and dumpling soup.
- Meal Prep Hero: Portion out leftovers into containers for quick and easy lunches throughout the week.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a meal – it’s a hug in a bowl. It combines the nostalgia of a time-honored recipe with the ease of modern slow cooking, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice chef, or simply someone who loves good food, this dish delivers on all fronts.