When comfort food calls, nothing beats Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings. This easy recipe warms your soul with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can set it and forget it. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready to enjoy. Dive in and discover how to make this classic dish a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups carrots, sliced
– 2 cups celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your slow cooker chicken and dumplings. The chicken thighs give a rich flavor. The broth adds moisture and depth. Carrots and celery bring sweetness and crunch. Onions and garlic add a strong base to your dish.
Seasonings like thyme and rosemary create a warm, herbal aroma. Salt and pepper balance the flavors perfectly. Frozen peas provide a pop of color and texture. Finally, the biscuit dough turns into fluffy dumplings that soak up the broth.
By using these ingredients, you ensure a hearty, comforting meal. Each bite warms you up and satisfies your hunger. As you prepare, feel free to adjust the seasonings for your taste. This dish is all about making it your own!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
In the slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Add salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients. This step builds great flavor.
Cooking the Mixture
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Set it to low heat. Cook for 6 to 7 hours. This long cook time makes the chicken very tender. Check it occasionally to ensure it is cooking well.
Shredding the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken thighs. Use two forks to shred the chicken. It should fall apart easily. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. Stir to mix it in with the broth and veggies.
Adding the Dumplings
Open the can of biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently drop the biscuit pieces into the chicken mixture. Spread them out evenly. This helps them cook well and become fluffy.
Final Cooking Steps
Turn the slow cooker up to high heat. Cover it with the lid again. Cook for another 30 to 40 minutes. This time lets the dumplings rise and cook through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Adding Finishing Touches
Stir in the frozen peas. Let them cook for 5 to 10 minutes until heated through. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt or pepper for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Dumplings
To make fluffy dumplings, follow these tips:
– Use cold biscuit dough: This keeps dumplings light and airy.
– Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing makes them dense.
– Drop them gently: Place biscuit pieces on top of the chicken mix without pressing down.
To ensure even cooking, avoid lifting the lid too often. Each time you open it, you let heat escape, which can slow cooking. Keep the lid closed and check only at the end.
Enhancing Flavor
For even more flavor, consider adding these herbs and spices:
– Fresh thyme or parsley: Adds brightness.
– Black pepper: A pinch can enhance depth.
– Smoked paprika: Gives a warm, smoky note.
For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This adds a nice touch and makes the dish look appealing. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping into the broth.
Slow Cooker Management
Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker. Some cook faster than others. If your cooker runs hot, check the dish after 5 hours.
To avoid common slow cooker mistakes:
– Don’t open the lid too much: Each time you do, it adds extra cooking time.
– Layer ingredients properly: Place denser items like carrots and celery at the bottom. This helps them cook evenly.
Following these tips will lead to a delicious and comforting meal that you and your family will love.

Variations
Healthier Version
To make a healthier version of chicken and dumplings, swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts are leaner and lower in fat. This small change lowers calories and fat. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrition. Try adding chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. These veggies boost vitamins and fiber while adding color to your dish.
Different Flavors
Want to change the flavor? You can add different herbs to the mix. Basil, oregano, or dill can give your dish a new twist. Using alternative broth types can also change the taste. For a richer flavor, try beef broth instead of chicken broth. If you prefer a lighter flavor, vegetable broth works well too. These easy swaps can make your meal fun and different each time.
Gluten-Free Options
For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free biscuit alternatives. There are many brands that offer gluten-free dough. Make sure to check the labels carefully. You also need to ensure that your broth and seasonings are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free chicken broth. This way, you can enjoy your meal without worry.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your chicken and dumplings, let it cool first. I usually wait about 30 minutes after cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. Once cool, transfer it to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Make sure to cool the dish completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat chicken and dumplings in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth to a pot. Heat gently over low heat, stirring often. This keeps the texture nice and the flavors fresh.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add the frozen chicken thighs directly into the slow cooker. You need to extend the cooking time by about one hour. This ensures the chicken cooks through. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers for up to three days in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the dish. It lasts up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, ensure it reaches a safe temperature.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make Chicken and Dumplings on the stovetop. Use a large pot and cook the chicken and vegetables over medium heat. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender. Then, add the dumplings and cover. Cook for another 20 minutes until they are fluffy.
What can I serve with Chicken and Dumplings?
Serve Chicken and Dumplings with a side of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the broth. You can also pair it with a simple salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice touch. Enjoy your meal!
You learned how to make tasty chicken and dumplings step-by-step. We covered the key ingredients, from chicken and vegetables to seasoning and dumplings. I shared tips for perfect dumplings and ways to store leftovers.
With these tricks, you can create a warm meal for your family. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own. Chicken and dumplings can be a comforting dish that brings everyone together. Happy cooking!


