Priceless Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings in 5 Steps

Savor the priceless comfort of slow cooker chicken and dumplings with just 5 easy steps. A hearty, creamy dish perfect for any night!

Few meals bring comfort like a steaming bowl of slow cooker chicken and dumplings. The rich, creamy broth, the tender shreds of chicken, and the pillowy soft dumplings create a dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this slow cooker recipe ensures you can enjoy a homemade classic without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Let your slow cooker handle the work while you go about your day.
✔️ Wholesome & Filling – Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish satisfies without being overly heavy.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal.
✔️ Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

For the chicken and broth, you’ll need:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or milk
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 tsp poultry seasoning

For the dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¾ cup milk
3 tbsp melted butter
Chopped parsley (optional) for garnish

Step 2: Prep and Slow Cook the Chicken

A slow cooker filled with raw chicken, fresh vegetables, and broth, ready to cook on a white marble countertop with kitchen utensils nearby.

Place the chicken, broth, cream of chicken soup, vegetables, and seasonings into the slow cooker.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and set the slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken becomes fork-tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Place the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and mix it well.

Pro Tip: Chicken thighs tend to be juicier than chicken breasts, making them a great option for this dish.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl and whisk until evenly distributed.
Pour in milk and melted butter, stirring until a soft dough forms.
The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to scoop.

Shortcut: If you’re short on time, store-bought biscuit dough works well as an alternative.

Step 4: Add the Dumplings

A spoon dropping homemade dumpling dough into a simmering slow cooker filled with creamy chicken and broth on a white marble countertop.

Using a spoon, drop small portions of dumpling dough directly onto the surface of the broth.
Ensure the dumplings are evenly spaced to allow them to cook properly.
Cover and cook on high for 45 minutes, letting the dumplings steam in the broth until they become light and fluffy.

Important: Avoid stirring after adding the dumplings, as it may break them apart.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle generous portions into bowls, making sure to get both dumplings and chicken.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
Pair with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips:

Keep any remaining portions in a sealed container and refrigerate for a maximum of three days.
To freeze, store the chicken and broth separately; prepare fresh dumplings when reheating.
Reheat gently over the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture.

Health and Nutrition Benefits

A comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken and dumplings, garnished with fresh parsley, served with crusty bread on a wooden board over a white marble countertop.

Lean Protein – Chicken provides essential nutrients to support muscle health.
Rich in Vitamins – Carrots, celery, and onions offer a variety of vitamins and antioxidants.
Balanced Comfort – This dish satisfies cravings while providing fiber, protein, and essential minerals.
Lighter Options – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings

–Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance flavor.
–Want a thicker broth? Mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water and stir it in before adding dumplings.
–More veggies? Add frozen peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
–Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of cream.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming too dense?

Overmixing the dough can make them tough. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.

Can I add extra spices?

Absolutely! Try adding smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.

What’s the best way to thicken the broth?

A cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) works well to create a thicker consistency.

Final Thoughts

A bowl of slow cooker chicken and dumplings is the definition of comfort. Simple ingredients, rich flavors, and an effortless cooking process make this dish a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for your family or meal-prepping for the week, you’ll love how easy it is to put together. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen!