Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food! This easy-to-make dish brings warmth and flavor to any table, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With tender chicken, creamy soup, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Plus, it allows you to set it and forget it, making dinner preparation a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply throw everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy chicken soup and spices creates a deliciously comforting dish that warms your heart.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment can make a significant difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld together over several hours without constant supervision.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker; it helps ensure even mixing for better flavor.
• Whisk: Essential for smoothly blending ingredients like soups and spices, ensuring no lumps remain in your mixture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp onion powder (or to taste)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (or to taste)
• 2 Tbsp melted butter

For the Dumplings

• 1 (16.3-oz) can refrigerated biscuits

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Spray a 6-qt slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, melted butter, and chicken broth.
2. Pour the soup mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

1. Place the lid on the crockpot.
2. Cook on LOW heat for 5 hours.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
2. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.

Step 5: Add Dumplings

1. Open your can of refrigerated biscuits.
2. Separate each biscuit and cut them into 8 bite-sized pieces.
3. Sprinkle biscuit dough evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.

Step 6: Final Cooking Phase

1. Cover the slow cooker again.
2. Cook on HIGH heat for about 1 hour until biscuits are cooked through.
3. Garnish with fresh cracked pepper and dried parsley before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a hearty dish that warms the soul. There are several delightful ways to serve this comforting meal, making it even more enjoyable for your family and friends.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken and dumplings directly from the crock pot to the dining table for a cozy family meal. This encourages everyone to help themselves.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme right before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

Over Rice

• For an extra filling option, serve the chicken and dumplings over a bed of fluffy rice. It absorbs the delicious broth beautifully.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light side salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well to balance the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Creating the perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can significantly enhance flavor compared to dried versions.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your broth before cooking and adjust salt or spices as needed for balanced flavors.
• Cook on Low: Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully, so resist the urge to rush the process.
• Don’t Overcook Biscuits: Keep an eye on the biscuits during the final cooking stage; they should be fluffy but not dry.
• Shred Chicken Well: Ensure chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the dish.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

To complement your Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, consider these tasty side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   A great choice for soaking up all that delicious broth. Toast slices of bread with garlic butter until golden brown.

2. Steamed Green Beans
   Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh crunch that balances out the richness of the main dish.

3. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast in both texture and flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables bring earthy flavors that pair well with chicken and dumplings. Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

5. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread complements savory dishes perfectly while adding a delightful texture contrast.

6. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes offer another comforting starch option, perfect for pairing with any leftover gravy.

7. Caesar Salad
   The crisp romaine lettuce combined with creamy dressing adds a refreshing touch that’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

8. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
   A classic comfort food that kids love; it’s cheesy, rich, and pairs well with almost any main course!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Using too much liquid – Adding excess broth or soup can lead to a watery consistency. Stick to the ingredient measurements for best results.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Follow the time guidelines closely to keep it tender and juicy.
• Not shredding the chicken properly – Failing to shred the chicken thoroughly can leave large chunks in your dish. Shred it well for even distribution.
• Ignoring seasoning – Skipping on spices can lead to bland flavors. Adjust onion and garlic powders according to your taste preferences.
• Not cutting biscuits evenly – Uneven biscuit pieces may cook differently, impacting texture. Cut them into uniform sizes for consistent cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Reheat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so on LOW heat.

How do I make dumplings from scratch?

You can mix flour, baking powder, milk, and seasoning to create homemade dumpling dough if you prefer fresh dumplings instead of canned biscuits.

Can I substitute other proteins?

Absolutely! You can use turkey or beef instead of chicken if desired. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a versatile comfort food that is sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe allows for customization—feel free to add vegetables or adjust seasonings as you like. Try it out and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!