As the cool evening air settles in, there’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of homemade comfort food. I discovered the magic of Easy Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings during a chilly Sunday afternoon, while craving something hearty yet simple to prepare. The nostalgic aroma of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmering away envelops my home, inspiring an instant sense of coziness.
The incredible thing about this dish is how effortlessly it combines rich, creamy flavors with minimal fuss, making dinner prep feel like a joyful ritual rather than a chore. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or entertaining friends for a casual gathering, this slow cooker recipe can be easily tailored to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. From swapping in dairy-free ingredients to adding in seasonal vegetables, every bowl can turn out uniquely delicious. Come join me in creating a meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with those you love!
Why is Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings unbeatable?
Comforting, cozy warmth: This recipe offers a deliciously rich broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Effortless preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax.
Customizable goodness: Whether you prefer it dairy-free or with added spices, the options are endless for making it your own.
Perfect for gatherings: Serving this dish always impresses friends and family, making it a go-to for casual entertaining.
Hearty and nourishing: Packed with protein and wholesome veggies, it’s a meal that satisfies while still being easy on the eyes and the taste buds.
Explore more comforting creations like this by checking out our collection of delightful slow cooker recipes!
Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
- Chicken (boneless, skinless) – The heart of this dish, providing a tender and hearty protein; feel free to use frozen chicken but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – This flavorful base allows you to better control the saltiness of your meal, enhancing every bite.
- Cream of chicken soup – Adds a rich, creamy texture; for a dairy-free twist, substitute with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
For the Vegetables
- Carrots – Sweet and colorful, they add a nice texture; you can swap in parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Celery – This crunchy veggie brings freshness and flavor to the broth; the crunchy texture is lovely in the final dish.
- Onions – Essential for depth of flavor; shallots can be a nice alternative for a milder taste.
For the Dumplings
- Dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade) – Provides the fluffy dumplings that soak up all that delicious broth; homemade versions can be made with basic ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt.
For Finishing Touches
- Butter – Enhances richness in the broth; for a dairy-free option, switch to vegan butter or olive oil.
- Herbs (dried thyme, parsley) – Elevate the flavors beautifully; opting for fresh herbs added just before serving can bring a burst of freshness.
Discover how these slow cooker chicken & dumplings ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that warms both the body and soul!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the slow cooker insert lightly to prevent sticking. This ensures that your delicious meal comes out effortlessly.
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Add Broth & Seasonings: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, followed by your desired seasonings, and give it a good stir to blend all the flavors together.
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Creamy Base: Stir in the cream of chicken soup until it’s well combined. This step creates a luscious, creamy texture that will envelop your chicken and dumplings.
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Cook on Low: Place the boneless, skinless chicken into the mixture, cover, and let it slow cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender.
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Shred Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken. After it cools slightly, shred it and return it to the cooker, mixing it into the broth for added flavor.
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Prepare Dumplings: Following package instructions or your recipe, mix up your dumpling dough. This dough will create those fluffy morsels everyone loves!
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Finish Cooking: Drop the dumpling dough onto the top of the mixture, cover, and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving your slow cooker chicken & dumplings out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage, especially if it’s warm in the kitchen.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container without dumplings for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on low heat, adding fresh dumplings if desired.
Reheating: When reheating, ensure the chicken & dumplings are heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings?
As the comforting aroma fills your kitchen, think about how you can elevate this heartwarming meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, it adds a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens balances the rich flavors and brings a refreshing element to your meal.
- Honey Butter Cornbread: This sweet treat enhances the comfort vibes while providing a delightful contrast to the savory dumplings.
Pairing this dish with a light, crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, rounds out the experience. As the meal comes together, you’ll find every element harmonizes beautifully, creating a feast that is both satisfying and memorable.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and portion out the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, the broth mixture can be assembled and refrigerated separately from the dumplings for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the refrigerated ingredients in your slow cooker and set it to the desired cooking time. To maintain quality, avoid adding the dumplings until the last hour of cooking to ensure they remain fluffy and tender. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings Variations
Embrace the fun of making this dish your own with exciting twists and swaps that elevate each comforting bowl!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a creamy delight.
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Veggie Boost: Swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, adding vibrant color and nutrition to the dish.
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Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a fragrant twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Protein Twist: Use turkey or even beef instead of chicken for a delightful change in taste and texture that will surprise your family.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that ignites your taste buds!
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese just before serving for a rich, creamy layer that complements the soup beautifully.
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Pot Pie Style: Top the dish with biscuit dough instead of dumplings and bake until golden brown for a comforting pot pie twist.
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Bread Bowl: Serve in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and interactive dining experience that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings
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Dumpling Timing: Avoid adding dumplings too early; this prevents them from becoming overcooked and mushy in your slow cooker chicken & dumplings.
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Broth Choice: Using low-sodium chicken broth helps you manage saltiness, allowing you to season your dish to taste without overpowering flavors.
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Texter Matters: Shred the chicken separately. This ensures a uniform distribution of tender chicken throughout the mixture for a delightful eating experience.
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Spacing Dumplings: Make sure to space out the dumplings when adding them to the top. This allows each one to cook properly and maintain fluffiness.
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Fresh Herb Finishing Touch: Add fresh herbs just before serving for an extra burst of flavor that elevates your dish.
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Doneness Test: Check the dumplings’ doneness by poking them; they should be fluffy and firm inside, ensuring they’re cooked perfectly.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs works best for this dish. They cook evenly and stay tender in the slow cooker. If you have frozen chicken, that’s totally fine; simply increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure it’s cooked through.
How should I store leftovers from the Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t eat it all in that time, consider freezing it for longer storage.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings?
Absolutely! To freeze, separate the soup base from the dumplings. Store the broth and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding fresh dumplings as you warm it for the best texture.
What can I do if my dumplings turn out dense?
If your dumplings are dense, it often means they were overmixed or cooked too long. For next time, mix just until combined, and add them to the slow cooker in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This will ensure they stay fluffy!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
Yes, if you or your guests have dairy allergies, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Additionally, if you’re looking for gluten-free options, many grocery stores offer gluten-free dumpling mixes or you can make your dumplings from scratch using gluten-free flour.
Can I substitute the vegetables in this recipe?
Very much so! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables. Some great substitutions include parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even green beans. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
Savory Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease the slow cooker insert lightly to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and desired seasonings, then stir.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup until well combined.
- Add the boneless, skinless chicken, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return to the cooker.
- Prepare dumpling dough according to package instructions.
- Drop the dumpling dough onto the top of the mixture, cover, and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes.