Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

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Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Guide

Introduction

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft, fluffy dumplings—perfect for a chilly day or a cozy family meal.

The slow-cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, making it an easy and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a delicious dinner with little preparation, this dish is an all-time favorite.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Chicken and dumplings have long been a staple in American cuisine, particularly in the Southern and Midwestern regions. The dish is a comforting one-pot meal that has been passed down through generations. Traditionally, it was made using simple, accessible ingredients—chicken, flour, and vegetables—and became popular as a budget-friendly, filling dish.

Over time, regional variations emerged, but the essence of the dish remains the same: a hearty soup base paired with fluffy, biscuit-like dumplings. The slow cooker version of this classic dish offers convenience without sacrificing flavor, making it a modern twist on an age-old comfort food.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, you will need:

  • Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a richer flavor)
  • Vegetables: 1 cup carrots (diced), 1 cup celery (diced), 1 medium onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Broth: 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • Cream: 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • Seasoning: 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp parsley, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp paprika
  • Dumplings:
    • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tbsp baking powder
    • ½ tsp salt
    • ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
    • ¾ cup milk
    • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Optional Additions

  • Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
  • Vegetables: Incorporate peas, corn, or green beans for added texture.
  • Spices: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
  • Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
  • Dumplings: Add grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped herbs to the dumpling mixture for a more flavorful twist.

Tips for Success

  • Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs offer a richer, juicier flavor, while chicken breasts are leaner. Both will work well in this dish, so choose based on your preference.
  • Layering: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure they cook thoroughly.
  • Dumplings Texture: For soft and fluffy dumplings, avoid over-mixing the dough. Gently stir and drop the dumplings onto the soup once the chicken is cooked.
  • Cooking Time: For best results, cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to keep the temperature steady.
  • Shredding the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it easily with two forks before adding the dumplings for better texture and flavor distribution.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, parsley, and paprika on top.
  2. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine the seasonings.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  4. Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
  5. Prepare Dumplings: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and milk. Stir until just combined (don’t overmix). Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the simmering soup.
  6. Cook Dumplings: Cover and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
  7. Finish: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve: Ladle the chicken, vegetables, and dumplings into bowls, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Description

This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings dish offers the best of both worlds: a rich, creamy soup base filled with tender chicken and hearty vegetables, all crowned with soft, pillowy dumplings. The slow cooker ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, and the dumplings add the perfect balance of texture to each bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes your house smell amazing while providing comfort in every spoonful.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food—easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a delicious dinner to enjoy on a quiet evening, this dish promises to satisfy. The slow-cooked chicken and creamy broth, combined with the light and fluffy dumplings, create a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Recommendation

Serve this dish with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream and reducing the butter in the dumplings. This dish is versatile, so feel free to adjust the vegetables and seasoning to suit your personal preferences.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a rich and comforting dish, it can be made healthier with a few simple swaps. Use low-sodium chicken broth, opt for lean chicken breasts, and incorporate more vegetables for added fiber. By making small adjustments, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free while still savoring all the indulgent flavors.

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