Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting One-Pot Meal

When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something warm and satisfying, nothing hits the spot quite like Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings. This classic comfort food combines tender chicken, a creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings into a hearty dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

What makes this recipe even better? It’s made in a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it while it works its magic. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

• Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, giving you time to focus on other things.
• Comforting Flavors: The creamy broth and fluffy dumplings make this the ultimate cozy dish.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

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

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breast halves	4 (skinless, boneless)
Butter	2 tablespoons
Condensed cream of chicken soup	2 (10.5-ounce) cans
Onion, finely diced	1 medium
Biscuit dough (refrigerated)	1 (10-ounce) package
Water	2 cups (or as needed to cover)

These simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

1. Gather Your Ingredients

• Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure you’re ready to go.

2. Prepare the Slow Cooker

• Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.

3. Add the Ingredients

• Pour in the condensed cream of chicken soup and diced onion.
• Add the butter and enough water to cover the chicken. Stir everything to combine.

4. Cook the Chicken

• Cover the slow cooker and set it to High. Cook for 5 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

5. Prepare the Dumplings

• About 30 minutes before serving, tear the biscuit dough into small pieces.

6. Add the Dumplings

• Drop the biscuit dough pieces into the slow cooker, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

7. Finish Cooking

• Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer raw in the center.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Slow Cooking Enhances Flavor

Cooking the chicken slowly ensures it becomes tender and flavorful as it absorbs the creamy broth.

2. Convenience Meets Comfort

This recipe uses a few shortcuts, like condensed soup and biscuit dough, to save time without sacrificing taste.

3. One-Pot Wonder

Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Opt for a good brand of condensed soup and fresh biscuit dough for the best results.

2. Stir Occasionally

Give the mixture a gentle stir every few hours to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

3. Customize the Seasonings

Add a pinch of thyme, parsley, or a bay leaf for extra flavor.

4. Don’t Overcrowd the Dumplings

Ensure the dumplings have enough space to expand as they cook.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Dumplings

1. With a Side Salad

Pair this hearty dish with a light green salad for a balanced meal.

2. Fresh Bread

Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.

3. Seasonal Vegetables

Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach make excellent sides.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	28g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	25g
Sodium	950mg

This dish is hearty and satisfying, offering a comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Dumplings

Cooking the dumplings for too long can make them mushy. Stick to the recommended 30 minutes.

2. Using Too Much Water

Add just enough water to cover the chicken, as excess liquid can dilute the creamy broth.

3. Not Shredding the Chicken

Shredding the chicken before serving helps distribute it evenly throughout the dish.

4. Forgetting to Stir the Dumplings

Give the dumplings a gentle stir midway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

How to Customize Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

1. Add Vegetables

• Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or celery for added texture and nutrition.

2. Make It Spicy

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a little heat.

3. Use Different Proteins

• Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs or turkey for a different flavor.

4. Try Homemade Dumplings

• Replace the refrigerated biscuit dough with homemade dumpling dough for a more traditional touch.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

3. Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?

It’s best to freeze the chicken and broth mixture without the dumplings, as the dumplings can become soggy when reheated.

4. Can I use homemade soup instead of condensed soup?

Absolutely! Substitute with an equal amount of homemade cream of chicken soup for a fresher taste.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free biscuit dough and a gluten-free condensed soup alternative to make this dish gluten-free.

6. Can I cook this on Low instead of High?

Yes, cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours for similar results.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that warms the heart and soul.

So gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. You’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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