The Ultimate Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for Comfort Food Perfection
Craving a warm, hearty, and unbelievably satisfying meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this incredibly easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe! It’s the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, a rich, creamy gravy, and fluffy, homemade-style dumplings, all brought together effortlessly in your slow cooker. Forget spending hours slaving over the stove; with minimal prep and the magic of your crockpot, you can achieve a truly delicious dinner that the whole family will adore.
Using the slow cooker isn’t just about convenience; it’s about unlocking deep, comforting flavors that simmer to perfection. This recipe masterfully combines succulent chicken breasts, convenient canned soups, and a colorful medley of frozen vegetables, resulting in a dish that feels both gourmet and incredibly simple. Add in the perfect homemade dumplings, and you have a meal that defines coziness and culinary bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
When it comes to flavorful, filling meals, crockpot dinners are truly unparalleled, especially for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the extensive kitchen time. This particular slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe embodies the “set it and forget it” philosophy, making it an ideal choice for weeknights or lazy weekends.
A truly great crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe should be quick, easy, and undeniably delicious. This version delivers on all fronts, requiring minimal active prep time – often less than 5 minutes! The result is a creamy, perfectly cooked comfort meal with tender, shredded chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft, pillowy dumplings, all nestled in a rich, savory gravy that will have your family asking for seconds.
The beauty of the slow cooker is how it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The low and slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken beautifully, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors of the creamy soup and broth mixture. This method guarantees a moist and flavorful chicken every time, making it superior to many stovetop versions.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Achieving the perfect creamy, hearty chicken and dumplings in your slow cooker is easier than you think, especially with these simple tips:
- Soup Base for the Gravy: This recipe leverages the convenience and rich flavor of canned cream of chicken and cream of bacon soups for its luscious “gravy.” These soups provide a thick, savory base with minimal effort. If you prefer a completely homemade touch, you can certainly substitute with a homemade condensed cream of chicken soup recipe (like this one: condensed cream of chicken soup recipe) and consider adding a dash of smoked paprika for a bacon-like flavor or a homemade roux.
- Vegetable Prep Made Easy: We save valuable time on vegetable preparation by using a versatile medley of frozen vegetables, such as peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. These are pre-cut and ready to go, retaining their nutritional value and adding vibrant color and texture. Feel free to customize this with your favorite frozen vegetable blends. If you’re using fresh vegetables, consider adding them earlier in the cooking process to ensure they soften properly.
- Dumpling Shortcuts: While we highly recommend making the delicious homemade dumplings from scratch for their superior texture and taste, a can of refrigerated biscuit dough can be a fantastic shortcut for an even faster meal. Simply cut the biscuits into quarters or tear them into small pieces and drop them into the slow cooker as directed for the homemade version. This is perfect for truly time-crunched evenings!
- Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken and gravy base ahead of time – just don’t add the dumplings. Store the cooked chicken mixture directly in your crockpot insert in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, place the insert back into the slow cooker, heat it on the high setting until thoroughly warmed through, and then proceed with the dumpling instructions as usual.
- Consistency is Key: After shredding the chicken and adding the vegetables, taste the broth. If you desire a thicker gravy, you can whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the hot liquid before adding the dumplings. Cook for about 15-20 minutes longer until thickened.
- Don’t Peek at Dumplings: Once the dumplings are added, resist the urge to lift the lid of the slow cooker. The steam trapped inside is crucial for cooking the dumplings evenly and making them light and fluffy.
RELATED: We love using the slow cooker! Try our crockpot mac and cheese too!
ANOTHER RECIPE YOU MIGHT LIKE: For another hearty, hands-off meal, try our Crockpot Lasagna!
Essential Ingredients for Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
This recipe relies on a simple yet powerful combination of ingredients that come together to create a deeply satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They cook down to tender, shredded perfection and absorb all the rich flavors of the broth.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: One can of this classic soup forms the backbone of our creamy gravy, adding savory depth and thickness.
- Cream of Bacon Soup: A unique addition that elevates the flavor profile, giving the gravy a smoky, rich undertone. If unavailable, an additional can of cream of chicken or mushroom soup can be used, perhaps with a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Chicken Broth or Water: 2 cups of chicken broth enhance the overall chicken flavor, while water can be used as a convenient substitute.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: 2-3 cups of your favorite blend (peas, carrots, corn, and beans are a classic choice) add essential nutrients, color, and texture without any chopping.
For the homemade dumplings:
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups, the foundation for our light and fluffy dumplings.
- Sugar: 2 Tablespoons, for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory dish.
- Baking Powder: 2 1/2 teaspoons, the primary leavening agent for tender dumplings.
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon, works with the buttermilk for extra lift and tenderness.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances all the flavors.
- Cold Butter: 1/2 cup, cubed. Cut into the dry ingredients, it creates pockets of steam for a tender, flaky texture.
- Milk or Cream: 1 cup, to bring the dough together. Cream adds extra richness.
- Egg: 1, for binding and richness in the dough.
- Buttermilk: 1 tablespoon, adds a tangy flavor and reacts with baking soda for a perfect rise. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make this delicious crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe as seamless as possible, here are a few tools that will come in handy:
- Crockpot (5-6 quart): The star of the show, essential for slow cooking to perfection.
- Crockpot liners: A fantastic convenience item for incredibly easy cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, especially for the dumpling dough.
- Ladle or large serving spoon: To serve up generous portions of this comforting dish.
- Two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment: For easily shredding the cooked chicken.
- Large mixing bowl: For preparing your homemade dumpling dough.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: Step-by-Step Guide
This crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe is renowned for its creamy texture, hearty nature, and deeply satisfying flavors. With a gravy that’s absolutely to-die-for and a perfect balance of protein and vegetables, it’s the ultimate comfort food experience. Follow these simple steps for a truly rewarding meal:
- Prepare the Base: Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in an even layer on the bottom of your crockpot. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Mix the Gravy: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of bacon soup, and chicken broth (or water). Whisk them together until smooth. This forms the incredibly flavorful and creamy base for your chicken and dumplings.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the soup and broth mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 3 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook through and become wonderfully tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the initial cooking time is complete, remove the lid. Using two forks, easily shred the cooked chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. They should be very tender and fall apart effortlessly. Stir the shredded chicken back into the creamy gravy.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. They will quickly heat through and add a pop of color and nutrients to your dish.
- Prepare for Dumplings: Place the lid back on the crockpot to keep the mixture hot while you prepare the dumplings.
- Make the Dumpling Dough (Dry Ingredients): In a large mixing bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for tender, flaky dumplings.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the buttermilk until a wet, shaggy dough begins to form. Then, add the egg and milk or cream, mixing just until everything is combined and a soft, workable dough is achieved. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Dumplings to Crockpot: Remove the lid from the crockpot. Using a tablespoon or two spoons, drop 2 tablespoon-sized lumps of the dumpling dough directly into the hot chicken mixture. You want to drop them on top, allowing them to steam cook. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly shaped.
- Final Cook: Cover the crockpot again and cook for an additional hour on high. During this final hour, the dumplings will steam and cook through, becoming light, fluffy, and tender.
Your magnificent Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot and savor every comforting spoonful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Here are some common questions and helpful answers regarding this delightful slow cooker dish:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often result in even more flavorful and moist shredded chicken. The cooking time should remain similar.
- What if I don’t have cream of bacon soup? No problem! You can substitute it with another can of cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, or even a can of cheddar cheese soup for a different flavor profile. A pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the savory depth.
- How do I prevent my dumplings from being gummy? The key is to avoid overmixing the dumpling dough and not to lift the lid of the crockpot during the final hour of cooking. Trapped steam is essential for light, fluffy dumplings. Also, ensure your butter is cold when cutting it into the flour.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add diced onions, celery, or carrots (if not using frozen medley) at the beginning with the chicken, or add softer vegetables like spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking with the dumplings.
- How do I store leftovers? Leftover chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze chicken and dumplings? While the chicken and gravy base freezes beautifully, the dumplings can sometimes become a bit mushy or change texture after freezing and thawing. If freezing, we recommend freezing the chicken and gravy portion separately, and then making fresh dumplings when reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Can I brown the chicken first? You can, but it’s not necessary for this slow cooker recipe. The long cooking time ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful without initial browning. If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, a quick sear before adding to the crockpot won’t hurt.
More Delicious Crockpot Recipes
The slow cooker is an invaluable tool for creating incredibly flavorful meals with minimal effort. If you loved this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe, you’re sure to enjoy these other fantastic slow cooker dishes:
- For more tasty crockpot dinner ideas, you’ll want to check out this Healthy Vegetable Soup – loaded with chickpeas and quinoa, it’s packed with healthy ingredients that will fill you up and keep you warm!
- This dumpling recipe is a versatile favorite of mine! I use the exact same dough to make country-style biscuits (like I served with my Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie) and even my 10-minute Cinnamon Buns. In fact, you could double the recipe and use half for savory dumplings and half for sweet cinnamon buns – dinner and dessert, done!
- A recipe I have bookmarked to try is this delicious-looking Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore on Foodie Crush, perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Another alternative crockpot recipe that is incredibly popular is this Crock Pot Roast Beef – it’s one of the most frequently visited recipes on this blog for a very good reason!
- Be sure to try our Crockpot Sticky Chicken and our Crockpot White Chicken Chili for some other great slow cooker chicken meals that are full of flavor and easy to prepare.
Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 10.5 ounce can cream of bacon soup
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2.5 cups frozen mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corns and beans
For the dumplings:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter cubed
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon buttermilk
Things You’ll Need
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5-6 qt Crockpot
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Crockpot liners
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Ladle
Before You Begin
- If you prefer a homemade version, you can try this condensed cream of chicken soup recipe.
- While we chose to make our dumplings from scratch, you can use a can of refrigerated biscuit dough instead for even less work in the kitchen.
- You can make this recipe ahead, just don’t add the dumplings. Store it in the crockpot in the refrigerator, then put the crock back into the slow cooker to heat it back up on the high setting. Once the dish has heated back up, continue with the dumpling instructions.
Instructions
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Place the chicken breasts in an even layer on the bottom of the crockpot.
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Combine the cream of chicken, cream of bacon and broth and pour over the chicken.
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Cook on high for 3 hours.
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Remove the lid and shred the chicken using two forks.
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Stir in the frozen vegetables.
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Place the lid back on and start whipping up the dumplings.
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Stir the dry ingredients together, and cut in the butter until coarse and crumbly.
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Stir in the buttermilk until a wet dough forms and add the egg and milk or cream. Drop 2 Tablespoon-sized lumps into the crockpot.
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Cover and cook for an additional hour.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post was originally published on this blog on Jan 8, 2018, and has been updated with enhanced tips, details, and SEO optimizations for a better cooking experience.