I've always made the chicken and dumplings I was raised on with big fluffy dumplings cooked on top of the broth from the chicken. LOVE the stuff, but I found this chicken an dumpling casserole recipe and tried it last night...OMG, SO quick and easy and DELICIOUS!!!! I have a favor to ask, please. Express something to keep getting my post Recipe in first comment….إرفاق بحث تعلم الصوت يمكن

 

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort dish beloved for its creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy dumplings. Using a crock pot makes it nearly effortless while still delivering rich, homey flavors. This guide will provide everything you need for a perfect slow-cooked meal, plus expert tips, variations, and side dish ideas.

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Why Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings Works

The crock pot excels at this dish because it:

• Slow-cooks the chicken to tender perfection.

• Develops flavor as the broth simmers with herbs, vegetables, and spices.

• Allows dumplings to cook gently, creating soft, fluffy bites.

• Requires minimal hands-on time, perfect for busy families or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Chicken

• 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs add extra flavor)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Vegetables

• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced

• 3 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added near the end)

Broth and Seasonings

• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)

• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 bay leaf

• 1–2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed

• 3/4 cup milk (or buttermilk)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Equipment Needed

• Crock pot (6–7 quarts recommended)

• Cutting board

• Chef’s knife

• Mixing bowls

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Whisk

• Wooden spoon

• Ladle

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Trim excess fat from chicken if needed.

2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Optional: Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side for extra flavor before adding to the crock pot.

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Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• Chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.

• Layer them at the bottom of the crock pot; they form a flavorful base for the broth.

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Step 3: Assemble the Crock Pot

1. Place seasoned chicken on top of vegetables.

2. Pour chicken broth over the chicken.

3. Add thyme, parsley, paprika, and bay leaf.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender and shreds easily.

Tip: Avoid opening the lid frequently; slow cookers lose heat quickly.

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Step 4: Shred the Chicken

• Remove chicken from crock pot and place on a cutting board.

• Shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.

• Return shredded chicken to the crock pot.

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Step 5: Prepare the Dumplings

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Stir in milk until a soft dough forms.

4. Add parsley for color and freshness if desired.

Tip: Dough should be sticky but not too wet. If it’s dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time.

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Step 6: Add Dumplings to the Crock Pot

• Drop spoonfuls of dough on top of the chicken mixture.

• Cover and cook on high for 1 hour or until dumplings are fully cooked and fluffy.

Pro tip: Dumplings expand as they cook; leave space between spoonfuls for even cooking.

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Step 7: Thicken the Broth

1. If the broth is too thin, remove a cup of liquid.

2. Mix 1–2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch with the liquid until smooth.

3. Stir back into the crock pot and cook 10–15 minutes on high until thickened.

Tip: Stir gently so dumplings don’t break apart.

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Step 8: Add Final Touches

• Stir in frozen peas if using; they cook in 5–10 minutes.

• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs.

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Step 9: Serve

• Ladle chicken, dumplings, and vegetables into bowls.

• Spoon creamy broth over the top.

• Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.

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Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

1. Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor; remove bones after cooking.

2. Cook on low for best tenderness.

3. Don’t overmix dumpling dough; it can toughen them.

4. Shred chicken carefully to prevent stringy pieces.

5. Add dumplings last; they only need about an hour.

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Variations

Classic Comfort

• Chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and creamy dumplings.

Herb-Infused

• Add fresh rosemary, sage, or tarragon for aromatic flavor.

Spicy Chicken and Dumplings

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or hot sauce.

Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free flour blend for dumplings.

• Thicken broth with cornstarch slurry.

Dairy-Free Version

• Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for cream/milk.

• Use dairy-free butter in dumplings.

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Side Dishes

Crock pot chicken and dumplings is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with:

• Fresh green salad: Light and refreshing.

• Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots.

• Cranberry sauce or chutney: Adds sweet contrast.

• Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up creamy broth.

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of broth or milk to prevent drying.

Freezing

• Freezing cooked chicken and vegetables is fine, but dumplings may become soggy.

• Freeze components separately if possible.

• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

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Troubleshooting

1. Dumplings too dense:

   • Don’t overmix dough.

   • Make sure slow cooker is hot enough when adding dumplings.

2. Broth too thin:

   • Thicken with flour or cornstarch slurry.

3. Chicken dry:

   • Cook on low rather than high.

   • Use thighs for juicier meat.

4. Vegetables mushy:

   • Cut into larger pieces.

   • Add delicate vegetables like peas at the end.

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Advanced Tips

1. Sear chicken first: Adds rich, caramelized flavor.

2. Layer flavors: Cook onions, garlic, and carrots first in a skillet before adding to crock pot.

3. Use homemade broth: Enhances depth of flavor.

4. Herb bundles: Tie thyme, parsley, or sage in cheesecloth for easy removal.

5. Add wine: 1/2 cup dry white wine adds acidity and complexity.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

• Yes, but increase cooking time and ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Can I cook on high?

• Yes, but low and slow produces tender, juicy results.

Can I prepare ahead?

• You can assemble ingredients in the crock pot the night before.

• Refrigerate overnight and cook in the morning.

How do I store leftovers?

• Refrigerate for 3–4 days. Dumplings absorb broth, so add extra liquid when reheating.

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Serving Suggestions

• Family dinner: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

• Potluck or gathering: Keep warm in crock pot on low.

• Lunch leftovers: Serve in a bread bowl or over rice for variation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and hearty: Creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings.

• Hands-off cooking: Set it in the morning, enjoy dinner in the evening.

• Customizable: Add vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.

• Perfect for all seasons: Cozy in winter, satisfying year-round.

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Final Thoughts

Crock pot chicken and dumplings is a timeless comfort dish that blends rich flavor, creamy broth, and soft dumplings. It’s perfect for busy families, casual dinners, or special occasions.

With these detailed instructions, tips, variations, and serving ideas, you now have a master guide to creating a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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If you want, I can expand this further to include step-by-step photos, 10 additional seasoning variations, and suggested wine pairings, making it a 2500+ word ultimate crock pot guide