If you’re craving something irresistibly cozy, then Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings absolutely belongs on your dinner table. This dish weaves together tender bites of chicken, pillows of fluffy dumplings, and a fragrant, creamy broth that feels like a hug from the inside out. Every spoonful takes you back to classic comfort food, but in the easiest way possible: just toss everything into your slow cooker and let the magic unfurl throughout the day. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner hero or planning a laid-back Sunday supper, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings will soon become your go-to recipe for pure, soothing satisfaction.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this recipe shine is its simplicity: each ingredient truly matters, adding either soul-warming flavor or irresistible texture. From the earthy base of chicken and veggies to the cloud-like dumplings and creamy finish, every layer comes together to build comfort in a bowl.

Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, becoming incredibly tender as they slowly cook and infuse the broth with richness.
Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth that enriches every spoonful.
Carrots: Add color, natural sweetness, and a gentle earthiness.
Celery: Contributes crunch at first, then melts into a soft base for hearty flavor.
Chicken Broth: This is the foundation for your comforting broth, so use a flavorful one for best results.
Dried Thyme: Aromatic and woodsy, thyme layers in a herby note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Dried Parsley: Lends a wonderful freshness and a fleck of green for color.
Salt and Pepper: Customize these to taste, and don’t be too shy – seasoning is key.
Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious silkiness that transforms the broth into something truly special.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base for our homemade dumplings, keeping them hearty but soft.
Baking Powder: Helps the dumplings puff up into magical, fluffy morsels.
Milk: Binds the dumpling dough while ensuring a tender result.
Unsalted Butter: Enriches both flavor and softness in the dumplings – melt it first for easy mixing.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Build Your Flavorful Base

Start by loading your crockpot with the essentials: chicken breasts, chopped onion, diced carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, and your desired amount of salt and pepper. This is where the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings journey begins, and the initial flavors meld together as they slow-cook, creating the ultimate cozy base. Set your slow cooker to low and let everything gently simmer for 6 to 7 hours; your kitchen will smell like pure comfort!

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

About an hour before you’re ready to serve, grab two forks and shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. By now, it should be perfectly tender and break apart with hardly any effort. Stir everything well so the savory bits of chicken get distributed throughout your broth – this is what gives every bite of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings that satisfying, meaty goodness.

Step 3: Make and Add the Dumplings

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter just until a soft, cohesive dough forms – no need for perfection here! Drop tablespoon-sized dollops of this dough into the bubbling crockpot, right on top of your simmering stew. Switch the heat to high, cover, and let the dumplings puff up and steam for about an hour. They’ll become fluffy pillows that soak up all the savory, aromatic broth underneath.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Finish

Right before serving, pour in your heavy cream. Stir gently to swirl in a layer of silkiness and let the flavors meld together. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed – a final twist of black pepper or a sprinkle of salt can work wonders. Now you’re ready to dish up a bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings that promises pure satisfaction!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Garnishes

Bring your bowl to life by sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley, a crack of black pepper, or even a light dusting of Parmesan cheese. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and just a hint of brightness, while a bit of pepper gives each spoonful a little kick. If you’re feeling extra, a drizzle of good olive oil or a few chives can make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Although this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette, or a basket of flaky biscuits for an extra comforting touch. If you love a veggie boost, serve alongside roasted green beans or sautéed spinach. Every bite of these sides helps balance the rich and creamy nature of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, making your meal even more satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small crocks or wide mugs – perfect for cozy movie nights. Or, scoop your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings over a bed of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal. Feeling fancy? Add a sprinkle of microgreens or a lemon wedge on the rim for a restaurant-worthy look that’ll impress at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, so your leftovers might taste even better the next day! Just make sure to cool everything completely before storing to preserve that dreamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, though the dumplings may soften a bit more after thawing. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results, and give the stew a good stir after it comes to room temperature to restore that creamy consistency.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating. If you’re short on time, a microwave works too: just use a lower power setting and pause to stir a few times. If your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings thicken up in the fridge, add a splash of broth or milk as you reheat to help loosen things up again.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are wonderfully juicy and flavorful, and they work just as well as breasts in Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. They’ll shred beautifully and add extra richness to the broth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! While carrots and celery are classic, feel free to toss in peas, corn, or diced potatoes. Just be sure to chop extra veggies into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly in the crockpot.

How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?

The dumplings will be puffed up and no longer doughy in the center when done. It’s easy to check by cutting one in half – it should look fluffy and cooked through without any raw batter inside.

Is it possible to make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings dairy-free?

Definitely! Swap the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative such as coconut cream or oat milk, and use vegan butter in the dumplings. You’ll still get a delicious, creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.

Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?

You can prepare this dish in a large Dutch oven or stockpot on the stovetop. Simmer the chicken and vegetables until tender, then add the dumplings, cover, and cook until they’re fluffy and done. Finish with the cream just as you would in the crockpot version.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with the soul-soothing flavors of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. The ease, the aroma, the incredible comfort – it all comes together in one cozy bowl. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly see why this recipe is a favorite for family, friends, and anyone who loves real, homemade goodness.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and hearty dish, Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a classic recipe that is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. Tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth come together in this slow-cooked meal that is sure to warm both hearts and bellies.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in the crockpot. Cook on low for 6-7 hours until chicken is tender.
Shred the Chicken: About an hour before serving, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks.
Make the Dumplings: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir in milk and melted butter to form a soft dough.
Cook the Dumplings: Drop tablespoon-sized dollops of the dough into the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for another hour until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Finish and Serve: Stir in heavy cream just before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

For a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the crockpot before adding the dumplings.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor of the dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American