Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful broth—all with the ease and convenience of a crockpot. Whether you’re looking for the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly evening or just craving a classic comfort dish, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Ingredients Overview
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4 pieces): The foundation of this dish, these chicken breasts become incredibly tender after slow cooking, making them easy to shred and absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Onion (1, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the broth, creating a savory base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic richness that complements the other flavors.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups): Provides the liquid base, ensuring the chicken stays moist and the dumplings cook perfectly.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds a luscious, creamy texture to the broth, making it indulgent and satisfying.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can): Thickens the broth and enhances the chicken flavor, giving the dish a comforting consistency.
- Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Lends an earthy, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Dried Parsley (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of freshness and color to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors in the dish.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables (2 cups): A convenient blend of peas, carrots, and corn adds color, texture, and nutrition.
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (1 can, cut into quarters): The secret to those fluffy, easy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Crockpot Base
Step 1: Place the chicken, onion, garlic, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in the crockpot. This mixture forms the flavorful base that will infuse the chicken and dumplings with rich taste as they cook.
Slow Cook the Chicken
Step 2: Cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, making it easy to shred and ensuring that all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Shred the Chicken and Add Cream
Step 3: Shred the chicken using two forks and stir in the heavy cream and frozen vegetables. Shredding the chicken ensures that every bite is infused with flavor, while the addition of cream and vegetables turns the broth into a hearty, creamy stew.
Add the Dumplings
Step 4: Place the biscuit dough quarters on top of the chicken mixture. These will cook directly in the crockpot, absorbing the flavors of the broth and becoming light, fluffy dumplings.
Finish Cooking
Step 5: Cook on high for 1 hour, or until the biscuits are cooked through and fluffy. This final step ensures the dumplings are perfectly cooked and ready to serve.
Serve and Enjoy
Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy! Ladle out generous portions of the chicken, vegetables, and dumplings, and savor the comfort and warmth of this classic dish.
Helpful Tips
- Tip 1: For Extra Flavor, Sauté the Onion and Garlic First: Before adding them to the crockpot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil until softened. This will deepen their flavor and add an extra layer of richness to the broth.
- Tip 2: Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to use your favorite mix of vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Green beans, diced potatoes, or celery can make great additions.
- Tip 3: Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your dishes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a saucepan and warm over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing: This dish can also be frozen. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tend to be juicier. Just ensure they’re boneless and skinless for easy shredding.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Yes, substitute the biscuit dough with a gluten-free version and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
Q3: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A3: You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the broth will be less creamy.
Q4: Can I cook this on high for a shorter time?
A4: Yes, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but the flavors develop best with slow cooking.
Q5: Is it okay to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A5: Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used, but they may need a bit longer to cook.
Q6: Can I add potatoes to the dish?
A6: Yes, diced potatoes can be added with the chicken and will cook perfectly in the broth.
Q7: How do I make the broth thicker?
A7: If you prefer a thicker broth, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
Q8: Can I add mushrooms?
A8: Yes, sliced mushrooms add a lovely earthiness to the dish. Add them along with the other vegetables.
Q9: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A9: Yes, to save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Add it in step 3 with the cream and vegetables.
Q10: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A10: Yes, use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup, and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Q11: What other herbs can I add?
A11: Fresh rosemary or sage would complement the dish nicely. Add them sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
Q12: Can I double the recipe?
A12: Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.
Q13: How do I prevent the dumplings from being soggy?
A13: Make sure to cook the dumplings on high heat and avoid stirring them once added.
Q14: Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
A14: Absolutely! Homemade biscuit dough will work beautifully in this recipe.
Q15: Can I add cheese?
A15: Yes, shredded cheese can be stirred into the chicken mixture for an extra creamy dish.
Q16: What size crockpot should I use?
A16: A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe.
Q17: How can I add more vegetables?
A17: Simply increase the amount of mixed vegetables or add additional types like broccoli or zucchini.
Q18: Can I prepare this in advance?
A18: Yes, you can assemble everything except the dumplings the night before and store it in the fridge. Add the dumplings just before cooking.
Q19: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
A19: Yes, use the slow cook function or adjust cooking times if using pressure cook settings.
Q20: What side dishes go well with this meal?
A20: A simple side salad or steamed green beans pair well with the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Sauté Aromatics: Enhance flavor by sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crockpot.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken and removing the bones before shredding.
- Add a Splash of Wine: A bit of white wine in the broth can add a sophisticated depth of flavor.
- Season Layer by Layer: Season each component as you add it to the crockpot to build complex flavors.
- Herb Bouquet: Tie the thyme and parsley into a bouquet garni for easy removal after cooking.
- Crisp the Dumplings: For a crispy top, transfer the crockpot insert to the oven and broil the dumplings for a few minutes.
- Use Homemade Stock: If possible, use homemade chicken stock for a richer, more authentic taste.
- Don’t Overmix the Dumplings: Overmixing biscuit dough can make dumplings tough, so mix just until combined.
