Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love the comfort and warmth of a good chicken and dumplings dish, and making it in a crockpot takes that experience to a whole new level. The slow cooking really allows the chicken to become tender while infusing all the flavors of the herbs and broth into the dumplings. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, especially on chilly days. It's so easy to assemble, and the result is a hearty meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. You simply can't beat the ease and satisfaction that comes from this dish!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:14:28.530Z

When I first started making chicken and dumplings in a crockpot, I was skeptical about how flavorful it would turn out compared to the classic stove-top method. However, after a few tries, I realized that the slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. One key tip is to add the dumplings towards the end of cooking to keep them fluffy and avoid becoming too soggy.

Each time I make this dish, I’m reminded of family gatherings where the aroma of savory chicken filled the entire house. It’s a dish that not only warms the body but also brings back joyful memories. I love that it requires minimal hands-on time, yet delivers a delicious meal that everyone enjoys.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortlessly tender chicken that falls off the bone
Fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory broth
Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week

      

Key Ingredient Highlights

The choice of chicken in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving tender, flavorful results. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but bone-in chicken thighs can add even more depth to the flavor. The fat from the thighs can enrich the broth, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter option, switching to chicken breasts works beautifully, but ensure you check for doneness as they can dry out if overcooked.

Fresh vegetables are essential for adding flavor and texture to your crockpot chicken and dumplings. Onions provide a savory base, while carrots and celery contribute sweetness and crunch. Using frozen peas ensures a burst of freshness without requiring additional prep time, making this recipe not only easy but also efficient. If you prefer more vegetables, feel free to experiment with potatoes or green beans.

Herbs and seasonings are key to elevating the flavors in this dish. Dried thyme brings a warm, earthy note that complements the chicken beautifully. For a Southern twist, try adding a dash of paprika or even a sprinkle of cayenne for some heat. If you enjoy fresh herbs, replacing dried herbs with fresh thyme and parsley just before serving adds brightness to the dish.

Mastering the Dumplings

The dumplings are the star of this recipe, providing that comforting, fluffy texture we all crave. When adding the biscuit dough, make sure to cut it into quarters to ensure even cooking. Avoid overmixing when incorporating them into the broth; gently dropping them in allows for optimal rise and soft texture. An important note here—the dumplings should float on the broth, so don’t worry if they seem a bit dense at first; they will puff up as they cook.

If you're looking to customize the dumplings, you can substitute the refrigerated biscuit dough with homemade dumplings or even use a gluten-free biscuit mix for those with dietary restrictions. Just be mindful of cooking times, as homemade dumplings may require slight adjustments to ensure they are cooked through. Cooking them covered helps retain steam, which is vital for that fluffy texture.

For a little extra flavor, consider adding herbs directly to the dumpling mixture. A teaspoon of dried parsley or chives can enhance the overall taste and give your dumplings a lovely pop of color. It’s a simple addition that personalizes this comforting dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful crockpot dish:

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 cup frozen peas
2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you'll be all set to create a comforting meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your crockpot chicken and dumplings:

Prepare the Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix everything well.

Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat for 6 hours. This allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to develop.

Add the Dumplings

After 6 hours, remove the chicken, and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and drop them into the crockpot. Gently stir to combine.

Finish Cooking

Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high. This gives the dumplings time to cook through and become fluffy.

Serve and Enjoy

Give everything a final stir before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth of your crockpot chicken and dumplings!

It's so fulfilling to dish out this warm meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the chilled mixture into the crockpot and follow the cooking instructions as described. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop overnight, resulting in a richer broth when cooked.

If you want to freeze portions for future meals, I recommend freezing the chicken and broth mixture without the dumplings. The dumplings are best made fresh, as they can become mushy upon freezing. Once thawed, simply reheat the mixture in the crockpot, and add fresh dumplings during the last cooking stage to ensure they are fluffy and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but you can elevate it even further with creative serving suggestions. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of a good quality olive oil can brighten the dish and add an elegant touch. For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream on top or alongside a tangy salad for a refreshing contrast.

For those chilly evenings, this meal pairs beautifully with crusty bread or homemade cornbread, providing the perfect tool to scoop up all the comforting goodness of your crockpot chicken and dumplings. It transforms into a complete cozy dinner experience that embraces the essence of comfort food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure to extend the cooking time by an additional hour.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the biscuit dough with gluten-free biscuits.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like corn or green beans for variety.