Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

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Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Introduction

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty dish that brings a sense of home to every bite. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish combines tender, juicy chicken, a rich and creamy broth, and soft, fluffy dumplings. It’s a meal that is both filling and nostalgic, perfect for chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or family gatherings. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Chicken and dumplings have deep roots in Southern cuisine, originating as a humble, budget-friendly meal during the Great Depression. Families needed hearty, inexpensive meals that could stretch to feed many, and this dish fit the bill. Though variations exist across different regions, the core ingredients—chicken, broth, and doughy dumplings—remain the same. Today, it is a beloved classic, often associated with warmth, hospitality, and home-cooked comfort.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Chicken and Broth:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Additions

  • Vegetables: Add chopped carrots, celery, and peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma.
  • Spices: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can add depth to the dish.
  • Pre-made Biscuits: If you’re short on time, use canned biscuits instead of homemade dumplings.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Dark Meat for More Flavor – Chicken thighs add a richer taste compared to chicken breasts.
  2. Don’t Overwork the Dough – Over-mixing the dumpling dough can make it tough instead of light and fluffy.
  3. Layer Ingredients Properly – Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot to ensure even cooking.
  4. Avoid Overcooking the Dumplings – Once added, cook them just until they are firm and fluffy.
  5. Shred Chicken Gently – Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before serving.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  1. Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup, milk, and heavy cream (if using).
  3. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

  1. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Dumplings

  1. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
  2. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the crockpot on top of the broth and chicken mixture.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

  1. Cover and cook for an additional 45-60 minutes on high until the dumplings are cooked through.
  2. Stir gently before serving.

Description

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a creamy, comforting dish where tender chicken is slow-cooked in a rich broth, then topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. The dumplings add a perfect textural contrast to the creamy base, making every bite warm and satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 850mg

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the perfect meal for when you crave something hearty and soul-warming without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the hard work, while the dumplings add a homemade touch that makes this dish truly special. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints.

Recommendation

Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness. For added texture, pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this dish is traditionally rich and hearty, you can make it lighter by using low-fat milk, reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, and lean chicken breast. Adding extra vegetables like carrots, peas, and spinach can boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. No matter how you prepare it, this dish is a wholesome way to enjoy the simple joys of comfort food.

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