The moment I walked into the kitchen, the aroma of simmering broth filled the air, transporting me back to my grandmother’s cozy home. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings—a heartwarming staple that virtually makes itself while you go about your day. This one-pot meal is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, all nestled in a rich, savory broth. Not only does it simplify meal prep, but it also brings the family together around the table for a warm, cozy dinner. Plus, with options for gluten-free and dairy-free versions, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish! What’s your favorite way to enjoy homemade comfort food?

Why is this dish so comforting?

Warmth and Nostalgia: This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a dish that evokes fond memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Effortless Cooking: The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—just set it and forget it while the crockpot works its magic!
Customizable: With options to make it gluten-free or dairy-free, you can easily adapt this classic to fit everyone’s dietary needs.
Hearty Flavors: Juicy chicken blends seamlessly with fluffy dumplings in a broth that lovingly warms the soul.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a comforting meal for one, this dish fits the bill. Don’t forget to check out my other comforting recipes to keep your dinner rotation exciting!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients

For the Chicken Base
• Chicken (breasts or thighs) – This is the heart of your dish, delivering both flavor and nourishment; feel free to use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Onions – They add a lovely depth of flavor; yellow or white onions work best!
• Garlic – Fresh garlic will enhance the aroma and taste; don’t skip this aromatic gem!
• Carrots – These sweet veggies balance out the savory broth; substitute with any preferred vegetable if desired.
• Celery – It adds a nice crunch and freshness to the mix; if you need a substitute, fennel works great too.
• Chicken Broth – This forms the savory base; low-sodium broth is a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; adjust to your personal taste.

For the Dumplings
• Flour – This is the foundation for fluffy dumplings; swap it with gluten-free flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – A must for that perfect rise and light texture in your dumplings!
• Milk – Adds creaminess to the batter; substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

For Garnish (Optional)
• Fresh Herbs (parsley or thyme) – Adds a pop of color and freshness; sprinkle on top just before serving for an extra touch of flair!

Immerse yourself in the delightful preparation of this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, and let the slow cooker do the rest!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare Chicken and Broth
Begin by placing your chosen chicken, whether breasts or thighs, in the bottom of the crockpot. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and sliced celery over the chicken. Pour in chicken broth until the ingredients are just submerged, then season generously with salt and pepper. Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours and cover it, letting the magic begin.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
After the cooking time, carefully lift the crockpot lid, and you’ll be greeted with a rich aroma. Ensure your chicken is tender and easily shreddable. If using an instant-read thermometer, check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. If it’s perfectly cooked, turn off the crockpot and lift the chicken out onto a plate, allowing it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Shred Chicken
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot, mixing it gently with the flavorful broth and vegetables. Let it sit while you prepare the fluffy dumpling batter, ensuring the broth continues to simmer and stay deliciously fragrant.

Step 4: Make Dumpling Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to create the dry mix. Gradually stir in milk (or your choice of plant-based milk for a dairy-free version) until a thick batter forms. The batter should be slightly sticky yet smooth. Set it aside, ready to be transformed into fluffy dumplings amidst the simmering goodness of your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings
Return to your simmering crockpot, and without lifting the lid, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the bubbling broth. Be sure to leave a little space between each dumpling, as they will rise while cooking. Cover the crockpot securely and let the dumplings steam on low for an additional 30-45 minutes. When they are puffed up and cooked through, your comforting dish will be ready to serve!

What to Serve with Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

There’s nothing quite like a comforting meal that brings everyone together, and this one is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Crisp Side Salad: A fresh salad of mixed greens and vibrant veggies adds a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts the creamy broth.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are delightful for dipping into the rich broth and soak up every last drop of deliciousness.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds brightness and nutrition to your plate, complementing the heartiness of the dumplings beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts enhances the savory flavors of your dish, creating a more robust experience overall.
Fruit Compote: A sweet and tangy fruit compote can brighten the palate between bites of the savory chicken and dumplings.
Cranberry Juice: This refreshing drink adds a lovely balance of tartness and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your cozy meal.
Apple Pie: End your meal on a comforting note with a slice of warm apple pie, creating that idyllic homemade feel we love so much!

Feel free to mix and match these sides to suit your family’s tastes and elevate your meal experience!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your dish with these tasty twists that everyone will love!

Vegetable Medley: Add in peas, corn, or green beans for a burst of flavor and nutrition. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge too!
Turkey Swap: Use turkey instead of chicken for a festive variation, perfect for those post-holiday meals. This swap gives you a different yet just as comforting option.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate your favorite hot sauce or diced jalapeños to add a bit of heat. It makes for a fun twist that spicy food lovers will appreciate!
Gluten-Free Delight: Opt for gluten-free flour and ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for delicious dumplings that everyone can enjoy.
Coconut Cream: Swap regular milk for coconut milk in the dumpling batter for a tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory broth.
Cheesy Surprise: Stir in shredded cheese into the dumpling batter for extra flavor. The melty goodness becomes a comforting highlight in every bite!
Savory Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill to infuse unique flavors into the dish. You’d be surprised how much a little herb can elevate your meal!
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the finished dish brightens up flavors and adds a refreshing twist that perfectly balances the heartiness of chicken and dumplings.

With these variations, you’ll be able to make your home-cooked comfort food even more delightful! Don’t forget to peruse my other comforting recipes to keep meal times exciting and flavorful.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Lid Lifting: Avoid lifting the crockpot lid while cooking the dumplings. This helps retain the steam, ensuring they cook perfectly fluffy.
Chicken Temp: If using frozen chicken, make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Dumpling Options: For a quicker meal, consider using store-bought biscuit dough as a delicious alternative for dumplings in your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.
Thickening Tip: If reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to prevent the dish from thickening too much.
Vegetable Flexibility: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like peas or corn, allowing for a personalized twist on this comforting classic.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze without dumplings to maintain their texture, adding them when reheating.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.

Extra Tip: Be sure to label your containers with the date so you can enjoy this comforting Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings at its best!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and broth mixture up to 24 hours in advance by placing them in the crockpot and refrigerating it overnight. Simply combine the chicken, chopped onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and chicken broth, seasoning with salt and pepper, then cover and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve, take the crockpot out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Cook as instructed, shredding and adding the dumplings for the final touch—your family will enjoy a delicious meal just as comforting as if you made it from scratch in real-time!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this dish! Both will yield tender and juicy results, but thighs have a bit more fat, which can add to the richness of the flavor. If you’re using frozen chicken, just remember to increase the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

How should I store leftover Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to retain its delightful flavors and textures.

Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can! For optimal taste and texture, freeze the dish without the dumplings in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. If you prefer, you can add freshly made dumplings when reheating for the best results!

What can I do if the dumplings are too dense?
If your dumplings turn out too dense, they may need a little more baking powder or you might have overmixed the batter. For fluffier dumplings, mix until just combined and remember not to lift the lid during cooking. This helps them steam properly and rise beautifully.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Very much so! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy comfort food without compromising your dietary needs.

What herbs and spices can I add to enhance flavor?
You can certainly add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving for a pop of flavor! Additionally, if you’re up for a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the broth or sprinkle hot sauce on top when serving for a delightful kick.