There’s something utterly heartwarming about a bowl of chicken and dumplings, isn’t there? The enticing aroma fills the air, beckoning you to the kitchen in anticipation. Picture this: after a hectic day, you walk through the door to find a delectable meal waiting for you, bubbling softly in your slow cooker. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe is not just any weeknight dinner; it’s an uncomplicated symphony of tender chicken and creamy gravy that seamlessly melds with fluffy dumplings made from refrigerated biscuit dough. Imagine a meal that feels like a warm hug—comfort food that nourishes both body and soul without requiring hours of slaving away in the kitchen.
Perfect for those busy evenings when convenience meets cravings, this dish ensures you don’t have to compromise on flavor or comfort. With just a little prep, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you, letting those rich flavors develop while you unwind or attend to other tasks. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into creating a wholesome, satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Why Love Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Comforting, there’s nothing quite like a rich bowl that warms you from the inside out. Effortless, this recipe allows you to enjoy a fantastic meal with minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Family-Friendly, everyone, from kids to adults, will love the creamy texture and soft dumplings. Nutritious, with the option to sneak in some veggies, you can easily boost its health factor! Plus, this dish beautifully fills your home with delightful aromas—no one can resist. For more delicious and easy recipes, check out my quick dinner ideas!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to a cozy dinner tonight with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The main protein for a hearty meal; frozen chicken works but may need longer cooking time.
• Medium Onion, Chopped – Adds flavor and aroma; shallots can be used for a sweeter twist.
• Butter – Enhances richness; swap for olive oil for a lighter option.
For the Flavor Base
• Dried Parsley – Brings a burst of herbal flavor; fresh herbs are a great swap (use three times the amount).
• Seasoned Salt – Deepens the dish’s flavor; regular salt mixed with additional herbs can be a substitute.
• Poultry Seasoning – Complements the chicken beautifully; try thyme or sage if you don’t have it on hand.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory notes; fresh minced garlic is a lovely alternative (adjust as desired).
For the Saucy Goodness
• Chicken Broth – The soup base; for a vegetarian twist, opt for vegetable broth.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Creates a delightfully creamy texture; substitute with a light homemade version for fewer calories.
For the Dumplings
• Buttermilk Biscuits – These fluffy delights make the dumplings; ensure they are regular size (no Grands) to cook properly.
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings that feels like home-cooked comfort at its finest!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
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Prepare the Chicken: Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs right into the slow cooker. Add in the chopped onion and a few tablespoons of butter for a rich base.
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Season Generously: Sprinkle dried parsley, seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, and garlic powder over the chicken. These spices infuse the dish with delightful flavor as it cooks.
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Pour the Broth: Add chicken broth and cream of chicken soup to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients—that creamy goodness is starting to form!
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Set the Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through, soaking up all those flavorful juices.
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Shred and Stir: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir everything together beautifully. This is where the magic begins!
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Add the Dumplings: Cut your buttermilk biscuits into quarters and gently add them to the mixture. Press down lightly to soak in the tasty gravy.
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Final Cooking Phase: Cover and cook on high for an additional 1-2 hours until the biscuits are fully cooked through and have turned a lovely golden hue.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a delightful touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onion and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth and keep them separate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s go-time, simply place everything in the slow cooker, add the biscuits, and let it cook as directed. This preparation keeps the flavors fresh and ensures your dish maintains that comforting taste everyone loves! Just prepare your dumplings right before serving for that fluffy, irresistible texture.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Create the perfect comforting meal by complementing the rich flavors of this dish with delightful pairings.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy gravy, crusty bread adds a satisfying texture to your meal.
- Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the chicken and dumplings, providing a crisp contrast. Toss with a simple vinaigrette for bright flavors.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh, steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans bring a vibrant pop of color and nutrients, enhancing this hearty dish.
- Garlic Toast: Crispy garlic toast adds a crunchy, flavorful element. It’s irresistible for scooping up every last bit of gravy.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting, starchy side that pairs beautifully with the saucy chicken and dumplings.
- Homemade Applesauce: The sweet, tart flavor of applesauce serves as a lovely counterpoint, providing a delightful contrast to the savory dish.
- Iced Tea: Enjoy a refreshing glass of iced tea—its cool crispness complements the warm, hearty flavors of the meal beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies, adding a nostalgic touch to your cozy dinner.
These pairings will enhance your experience, making each bite of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings even more delightful!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful dish with your own creative touches for a unique flavor adventure!
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Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots or celery for a nutritious crunch that brightens the overall dish flavor.
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Garlic Biscuits: Swap out regular biscuits for garlic-flavored ones to elevate the savory depth and aromatic experience.
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Turkey Twist: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a fantastic post-holiday renewal of this heartwarming meal.
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Herb Upgrade: Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme just before serving to add a refreshing layer of flavor.
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Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper can introduce just the right amount of heat to tantalize your senses.
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Creamy Mushroom: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the mix for added umami and a delightful earthy flavor contrast.
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Coconut Milk: For a tropical twist, substitute the cream of chicken soup with coconut milk for a dairy-free, creamy texture.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a rich, cheesy flavor that melds wonderfully with the dumplings.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
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Choose the Right Biscuits: Use regular-sized buttermilk biscuits; flaky types may not cook evenly and can lead to a dense texture.
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Quality Matters: Opt for well-known brands of cream of chicken soup for a richer, better flavor profile. Avoid low-quality options that can compromise your dish.
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Veggie Boost: Add a small bag of frozen mixed vegetables when you include the biscuit dough for a nutritional boost without extra effort.
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Slow Cooker Variance: Each slow cooker differs; check the biscuits after 1 hour to ensure they are perfectly cooked and fluffy.
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Shred Wisely: For easier shredding, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture and makes it easier to pull apart.
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Adjust to Taste: Feel free to modify herbs and seasonings based on your preference; a pinch of cayenne or some black pepper can add a delightful kick to this comforting meal.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and dumplings in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to ensure the dumplings retain their soft texture.
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Airtight Guidance: If freezing, wrap the container with plastic wrap or foil before sealing to prevent freezer burn and preserve the comforting flavors of your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use frozen chicken—just be sure to increase the cooking time to about 7 to 8 hours on low. Look for chicken that is pink and not discolored, and always check the sell-by date to ensure freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the dish cool down before sealing it, which helps maintain its texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, a gentle reheating on the stove is ideal to keep those dumplings soft.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Definitely! For freezing, place cooled chicken and dumplings in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best to use it within 3 months for optimal taste. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming gently on the stove, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly.
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What if my dumplings were too dense or undercooked?
Very! To ensure beautifully fluffy dumplings, use regular-sized buttermilk biscuits and cut them into quarters as instructed. If you find them dense, it may be that the slow cooker wasn’t hot enough or that they didn’t cook long enough. Each slow cooker is different, so check on them after an hour and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Indeed! This recipe can easily be tailored to accommodate various dietary needs. For those with allergies, be cautious of the cream of chicken soup and consider using a non-dairy alternative or making your own. Additionally, if you have any gluten restrictions, look for gluten-free biscuits, which can work well in place of buttermilk biscuits.
How can I enhance the flavors of my chicken and dumplings?
Absolutely! You can add a small bag of frozen mixed vegetables right at the start for added nutrition and color. Also, consider adjusting the seasoning to taste; a little pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish even more. Enjoy experimenting!
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Nights
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Place chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Add chopped onion and butter.
- Sprinkle with dried parsley, seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Add chicken broth and cream of chicken soup to the slow cooker and stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir everything together.
- Cut biscuits into quarters and add to the mixture, pressing down lightly.
- Cover and cook on high for additional 1-2 hours until biscuits are cooked through.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.