There’s something truly magical about a big bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially when it’s made in the crockpot! This dish has a way of wrapping you in warmth and comfort, like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. I love how effortless it is to toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while I go about my day. The aroma that fills the house as it cooks is absolutely divine! Trust me, this chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You’ll savor every bite of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, and your family will be asking for seconds—maybe even thirds! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings Crockpot
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this heartwarming dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups biscuit dough
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go! The diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery will bring the perfect balance of flavor and texture to your chicken and dumplings. So, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken and Dumplings Crockpot
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get down to the fun part—preparing this delightful chicken and dumplings crockpot dish! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you by the end of the day.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
First things first, grab your trusty crockpot! Place the 1 lb of chicken breast right at the bottom. Then, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by the 1 cup of sliced carrots, 1 cup of chopped celery, and 1 diced onion. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. This should take about 5 minutes tops!
Step 2: Cooking Time
Alright, it’s time to let the magic happen! Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and tender. I like to check around the 6-hour mark, just to be sure. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be a delightful reminder that dinner is on its way!
Step 3: Shredding Chicken
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces—trust me, this is where the magic really begins! After shredding, return the chicken back to the crockpot, mixing it into the broth and veggies for that comforting goodness.
Step 4: Adding Dumplings
Now, let’s get those fluffy dumplings in the mix! Take your 2 cups of biscuit dough and drop spoonfuls right on top of the chicken and veggie mixture. Make sure to space them out evenly so they can rise beautifully while cooking. This step is super fun, and your dumplings will puff up nicely!
Step 5: Final Cooking
Last but certainly not least, add in the 1/2 cup of frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. Cover the crockpot and switch it to high for an additional 30 minutes. This is where the dumplings will cook through and become that light, fluffy texture we’re all craving. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, but just 30 minutes is all it takes to get them perfect!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chicken and dumplings crockpot dish turns out absolutely scrumptious every time!
- Use rotisserie chicken: For an even quicker meal, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast. It saves time and adds a lovely depth of flavor!
- Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices to suit your taste! If you love a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some fresh herbs can elevate the dish.
- Thicker broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking. You’ll get that perfect velvety texture!
- Veggie variety: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn or green beans to add even more nutrition and color to your dish!
- Check your dumplings: Keep an eye on the dumplings during the final cooking stage. If you like them a bit more golden, you can leave the lid off for the last few minutes to let them brown slightly.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe that’s not just good, but truly unforgettable. Happy cooking!
Variations for Chicken and Dumplings Crockpot
Now, let’s unleash your creativity with some fun variations for this chicken and dumplings crockpot dish! The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is—there’s so much room to play with flavors and textures, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for turkey or even a hearty beef stew meat for a completely different flavor profile. You could also go vegetarian by using mushrooms and vegetable broth instead!
- Veggie Medley: Get adventurous with your vegetables! Try adding diced potatoes for heartiness, or throw in some bell peppers for a sweet crunch. Frozen mixed vegetables work wonders too!
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic punch. If you’re feeling bold, throw in a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for a bit of heat and depth!
- Cheesy Dumplings: Mix in some shredded cheese into your biscuit dough for a cheesy twist that will melt beautifully into the broth. Imagine that gooey goodness with every bite!
- Seasonal Flavors: Embrace the seasons! In the fall, add some pumpkin puree to the broth for a cozy autumn flavor. In the summer, toss in some zucchini or fresh corn for a burst of freshness!
The possibilities are practically endless, and that’s what makes this chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe so special! Feel free to combine a few ideas or come up with your own! Cooking should be fun and expressive, so let your taste buds guide you. Enjoy the adventure!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers from your chicken and dumplings crockpot dish! It’s always a delight to have this comforting meal ready for another day. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the chicken and dumplings to cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation and keep everything nice and fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it’s best to do this within a day or two for optimal taste. It should stay good for about 2-3 months. Remember to label it with the date so you know when it was made!
Now, when it comes to reheating:
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, pop your portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Be cautious, as the dumplings can get hot quickly!
- Stovetop: For the best results, I recommend reheating on the stovetop. Just pour the leftovers into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems a bit thick.
- Oven: You can also reheat it in the oven! Place the dish in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the dumplings lovely and fluffy!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll make sure every last bite of your chicken and dumplings crockpot dish is just as delicious as the first time around! Enjoy your comforting leftovers!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this chicken and dumplings crockpot dish! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates to give you a rough idea of what’s in your bowl of comfort.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This hearty meal is not just comforting but also packed with protein to keep you satisfied. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy every delicious bite knowing you’re nourishing your body along the way!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Goodness: This chicken and dumplings crockpot dish wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every bite, making it perfect for cozy nights in.
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep and the magic of the crockpot, you can set it and forget it—allowing you to focus on the things that matter.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish; it’s packed with flavor and textures that everyone can enjoy together.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it adaptable to whatever you have on hand!
- Perfect Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights.
- Gluten-Free Option: With a simple swap for gluten-free biscuits, everyone can partake in this delicious comfort food!
chicken and dumplings crockpot: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting dish of chicken and dumplings made easily in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups biscuit dough
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Place chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken and shred it, then return it to the crockpot.
- Drop biscuit dough by spoonfuls on top of the mixture.
- Add frozen peas and cover. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until dumplings are cooked.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- For a thicker broth, add cornstarch mixed with water.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken and dumplings crockpot
