There’s something uniquely comforting about a bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined in just the right way, can create something truly special. The rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings make this a meal that warms both the body and soul. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner on a cold evening or a nostalgic meal that brings back fond memories, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The base of your dish, providing tender and juicy meat.
1 can chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the creamy sauce.
2 cans cream of chicken soup: Creates a thick, velvety broth that envelops the chicken and dumplings.
Sliced carrots: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
Sliced celery: Contributes a subtle, earthy flavor.
½ can peas: Introduces a bit of sweetness and vibrant green color.
½ onion, diced: Adds flavor and texture.
Crumbled bacon (optional): For a smoky, savory boost.
Parsley flakes: Provides a fresh, herbal note.
Garlic powder: Adds depth to the seasoning.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors.
1 can flaky biscuits: The star of the show, forming the dumplings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, laying the foundation for this comforting dish.
Add Broth and Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and both cans of cream of chicken soup. This combination creates a rich, creamy base.
Add Vegetables: Scatter the sliced carrots, celery, and diced onion over the chicken. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
Season: Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley flakes over the vegetables and chicken. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Cook on High: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for about 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Add Ingredients
Shred the Chicken: After 3 hours, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Shred the chicken using two forks until it’s in bite-sized pieces.
Return the Chicken: Place the shredded chicken back into the crockpot. If using, add the crumbled bacon at this stage.
Add the Peas: Stir in the half can of peas, which will add sweetness and color to the dish.
Step 3: Add the Dumplings
Prepare the Biscuits: Open the can of flaky biscuits and tear each biscuit into 3-4 pieces. These pieces will serve as your dumplings.
Add the Biscuits: Place the biscuit pieces on top of the chicken mixture in the crockpot. The biscuits will cook and puff up, creating fluffy dumplings that absorb the flavorful sauce.
Cook Until Done: Cover the crockpot and continue cooking on high for an additional hour, or until the dumplings are fully cooked and fluffy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Check the Consistency: Before serving, check the thickness of the stew. If it’s too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it sit for a while to thicken naturally.
Serve Hot: Ladle the chicken, vegetables, and dumplings into bowls and serve hot. Each bite should be a delightful mix of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and soft, pillowy dumplings.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like potatoes, mushrooms, and green beans. Use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken-based ingredients.
Different Proteins: Try using chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Seasoning Variations: Customize the seasoning with thyme, rosemary, or dill for different flavor profiles. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuits and ensure that the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are gluten-free as well.
Summary
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner, or simply craving something warm and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this classic dish, and create new memories around the dinner table with your loved ones.
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can 14.5 oz chicken broth
- 2 cans 10.5 oz each cream of chicken soup
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- ½ can 7 oz peas
- ½ onion diced
- Crumbled bacon optional
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can 16.3 oz flaky biscuits, torn into pieces
Instructions
Prepare the Crockpot
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour in chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Add carrots, celery, and onion. Season with garlic powder, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours.
Shred the Chicken
- Remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in the peas and optional crumbled bacon.
Add the Dumplings
- Tear biscuits into 3-4 pieces each and place on top of the chicken mixture. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour, or until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Serve
- Check the consistency of the stew. Adjust with additional broth if needed. Serve hot, ensuring each bowl gets a mix of chicken, vegetables, and dumplings.
