Ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Imagine coming home on a chilly evening to the warm, inviting aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings wafting through the air. The savory scent wraps around you like a cozy blanket, instantly melting away the stress of the day. Each bite promises tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a rich broth that feels like a warm hug from your grandmother.

This dish is not just food; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia and comfort, perfect for family gatherings or a lazy Sunday afternoon. I remember the first time I made this recipe—I had friends over for game night, and we ended up abandoning our board games for seconds (and thirds). Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for trying this delightful meal. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

There was that memorable Saturday when I made this dish for my family. It became an instant favorite as everyone devoured it with smiles on their faces.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for optimal tenderness; adjust based on your hungry crowd.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

• Celery: Crisp celery enhances flavor and texture; use medium stalks for the best results.

• Onion: A chopped onion brings depth to the broth; choose yellow onions for mild sweetness.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse rich flavor; crush them lightly to release their aromatic oils.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor.

• Dumpling Mix: Pre-packaged or homemade dumpling mix gives that fluffy texture; consider using buttermilk for extra fluffiness.

• Seasonings (Thyme, Bay Leaves): Fresh thyme adds herbaceous notes; bay leaves deepen the overall flavor profile.

• Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors in the dish; season generously but taste as you go.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping all vegetables—carrots, celery, onions—and mincing garlic. Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Place diced chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker followed by carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Pour in chicken broth until everything is nicely submerged.

Season Generously: Add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine ingredients while ensuring chicken remains at the bottom.

Set It and Forget It!: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let the magic happen as aromas fill your kitchen.

Make Those Dumplings!: About 30 minutes before serving, prepare dumpling mix according to package instructions or desired recipe. Drop spoonfuls onto the bubbling stew without stirring!

Finish Cooking and Serve Up! : Cook until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through—about 30 minutes more on high or until they puff up beautifully. Ladle servings into bowls and enjoy!

Each step fills your home with mouthwatering aromas that will make you feel like a culinary wizard while keeping things simple yet delicious!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken in your slow cooker, then add vegetables and broth before cooking everything on low for several hours.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or use frozen veggies instead of fresh ones for convenience.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

The first time I made Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, my kids declared it “the best dinner ever,” which made me feel like a superstar chef! For more inspiration, check out this dinner ideas recipe.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for balance.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or dumpling mix to create a gluten-free version easily.

Print

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

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• Author: Doorecipes
• Total Time: 14 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that delivers warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth, creating a cozy meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely Sundays, this dish not only fills the belly but also warms the heart.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups carrots, chopped
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by chopping vegetables and dicing chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add diced chicken to the slow cooker along with carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Pour in chicken broth until covered.
3. Season with thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare dumpling mix according to instructions and drop spoonfuls onto the bubbling stew.
6. Cook until dumplings are fluffy (about 30 minutes more on high). Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours on low (or 3 hours on high)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, brown the chicken first before adding it to the slow cooker. Swap chicken for turkey or use frozen vegetables for convenience.