Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially when it comes straight from the crock pot. This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is not only simple to prepare, but it also delivers that nostalgic, homemade taste without spending all day in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few hours of slow cooking, you can create a hearty meal that your family will love. So, put on your favorite apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

The beauty of this Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe lies in its simplicity. Using basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, this dish is both budget-friendly and quick to prepare. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving—perfect for busy home cooks who want a homemade meal without the hassle.

Ingredient Breakdown

This recipe calls for a few staple ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup: This is the base of your sauce, providing creaminess and flavor.
• 1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth: Adds depth to the dish and ensures it doesn’t dry out during cooking.
• 1 cup chopped onion: For aromatic flavor; you can use yellow or white onions.
• 1/3 cup finely chopped celery: Adds crunch and freshness to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the chicken flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a hint of garlic without the fuss of fresh garlic.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: To add a touch of heat and flavor.
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
• 1 (8-count) can refrigerated biscuits: These will be your dumplings; choose homestyle, buttermilk, or southern for the best results.

Recommended Tools

To make this Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Crock Pot: A reliable slow cooker is key to achieving tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.
• Chopping Knife: For dicing your vegetables quickly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Mixing Spoon: For combining ingredients effortlessly.
• Serving Spoon: To scoop the finished dish into bowls.

Cooking Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings: The Process

This process is straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and celery, and measure out the spices.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot

In your crock pot, add the chopped onion, celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly on top of the mixture. Don’t worry about stirring them in; they will cook down perfectly.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the chicken will be.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to combine.

Step 6: Add the Dumplings

Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently fold the biscuit pieces into the mixture in the crock pot.

Step 7: Cook the Dumplings

Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the chicken and dumplings into bowls and enjoy this warm, comforting meal with your loved ones. It’s the perfect dish to serve on a chilly evening!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

This recipe can be easily customized for different occasions. Here are some ideas to elevate your Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings:

• Add Seasonal Vegetables: Consider adding carrots, peas, or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition.
• Herb Garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme sprinkled on top adds a lovely touch of freshness.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat.
• Comforting Sides: Pair with a simple side salad or homemade cornbread for a complete meal.

Testing Timeline

If you’re curious about how this recipe holds up over time, here’s a brief testing timeline:

• 1 Hour: The flavors begin to meld together nicely, and the chicken starts to become tender.
• 3 Hours: The chicken is fully cooked, and the flavors are rich and comforting.
• 6 Hours: The dish has reached peak flavor; the chicken is falling apart tender.
• 8 Hours: Ultimate tenderness achieved, perfect consistency for the sauce and dumplings.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers (which is rare but possible!), here’s how to store them properly:

You can store any leftover Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to freeze the leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Note that the dumplings may lose their texture upon reheating, so they are best enjoyed fresh.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they cook through completely.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can make a homemade version using a roux with flour, butter, and chicken broth, or use a different cream-based soup.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe to an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for the vegetables and then pressure cooking for about 10-15 minutes.

How do I make the dumplings from scratch?

You can make homemade dumplings using flour, baking powder, milk, and butter. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Desserts to Finish

Complete your meal with a sweet treat! Here are some delightful dessert ideas:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless favorite.
• Warm Apple Crisp – Perfect for fall.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop is always a hit!
• Pumpkin Pie – Great for holidays, adding a seasonal twist.

In Closing

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than this Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process, savor the delicious results, and make this dish your own with seasonal touches or personal twists. Happy cooking!